The Peugeot 2008 was first unveiled during 2013 and received a facelift update in 2017. However, the French automaker has unveiled the second-generation model globally which is set to make its local debut soon. Although the exact details surrounding the South African specification are yet to be revealed, we can speculate on some items you can expect in the new 2008 model range.
Related: Six Peugeot 2008 accessories you didn’t know you needed
The Peugeot 2008 range is a compact SUV based on the Peugeot 208 hatchback model. Offering stylish looks, a raised ride height and a variety of safety and tech as standard, the French offering is most certainly underrated. Although the arrival of the new model is imminent, the current or even used Peugeot 2008 model range still offers great value for money.
1. Exterior
The last iteration of the 2008 model offered customers a modern and stylish design, however, the new model is set to redefine the range. While the outgoing model incorporates more rounded proportions on both the interior and exterior, the new model completely changes the theme with more angular lines and sharper defined surfaces.
While still retaining the Lion emblem embedded centrally, the grille on the 2008 range not only introduce sharper edges and a new 3D mesh pattern but also grow in size when compared to the used model. A similar theme is found on the new headlamps which promise to incorporate LED technology on all specification levels. The new model also replaces the traditional round foglamps with rectangular units which flank the fang-like daylight running lights.
GT and Allure derivatives of the new 2008 will come fitted with new 17-inch alloy wheels finished in a glossy black and exposed alloy surfaces. The outgoing model offered a similar configuration, however, with more rounded design patterns. The new model replaces the large rounded taillamps with thin rectangular units in a horizontal layout.
2. Interior
Similar to the changes on the exterior of the 2008's design language, we find a more angular and less rounded theme on the interior. Although commonalities can be found on the steering wheel and instrument binnacle designs, the new model not only incorporates sharper edges but replaces the traditional instrument dials with a large digital cluster.
Customers of the new model will also notice the much larger, 10-inch, touchscreen infotainment system that features centrally. Although the new larger screen might be reserved for the higher specification levels, more compact units should feature through the rest of the derivatives on offer.
3. Powertrain
One aspect of the new models coming to South Africa we do know more about is the engine option. All four derivatives that are planned for the local market will come fitted with a 1.2-litre, turbocharged, 3-cylinder petrol motor. While the previous model offered both petrol and diesel options with varying performance figures, the new range will see the engines producing different power ratings.
The entry-level, Active, derivative will be available with either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The manual combination promises 74 kW and 205 Nm of torque while the automatic specification promises 96 kW and 230 Nm of torque like the rest of the range. Both the Allure and GT variants will only be offered with the 8-speed automatic transmission.