Peugeot 2008 just got even better

Test Drive by Graham Breeze

Peugeot’s impressive 2008 just got even better with the arrival of a beefy looking GT-line version which goes on sale in July.

The 2008 has been getting rave reviews since launch back in 2013 with Peugeot’s new “grip control” system and the new three cylinder 1.2litre GT-line petrol model I’ve just driven is another step in the right direction for the company.

Don’t be fooled that the 2008 is an off-road vehicle because that certainly isn’t the case. It’s not badged as an all-terrain vehicle but it will take you further than most in the SUV sector thanks to Peugeot’s unique electronic stability programme.

The system works to maintain the best possible traction with five operating modes chosen by the driver from a control mounted on the centre console – Standard, Snow, All-Terrain, Sand and Off with mud and snow tyres coming in the package.

The system did more than enough to impress at launch in the snow back in 2013 and I’ve now had the chance to put the new GT-line through its paces in the mud. Quite simply it does all it says on the tin. Don’t expect it to get you through rivers and bogs but do expect to stay in full control in most of the muddy or sandy situations you are likely to encounter.

The first thing you notice about the new GT-line is the new beefy front with the latest Peugeot design codes and new double grille treatment with the test car looking particularly dashing in bright red with a red and black interior theme.

Wheel arch extensions and scuff plates give the GT-line a robust appearance with the tailgate opening to reveal a low loading sill with plenty of room for the golf clubs or holiday luggage.

New 17’’ alloys get gloss black/anthracite treatment which also replaces the standard chrome effect, including the front grille surround, fog light covers, mirror casings and roof bars. The front grille includes Black Chrome facets with red Peugeot lettering, while the rear stainless steel scuff plates are decorated like the exhaust tailpipe. The ‘GT Line’ badging is displayed on each front wing and on the tailgate.

Once inside there’s no mistaking Peugeot’s i-cockpit design with a compact sports steering wheel that has all the adjustments required to find a comfortable seating position. The colour-coded handbrake is another stylish touch from the French company.

Everything the modern motorist needs can be found within a seven inch touchscreen control centre that’s as easy to use as any I have encountered. I’m a known critic of this type of system but you have to hand it to Peugeot’s design team on this occasion – everything is easy to find and even the sat nav system is straight forward.

And as with all modern-day offerings you get Peugeot’s on-board connectivity system which includes the Mirror Screen feature which allows the driver to link an Apple Carplay with voice activation or MirrorLink compatible smartphone to the touch screen.

Peugeot has also added Active City Brake technology which can reduce the severity of accidents and even helps avoid them altogether. Park Assist technology will automate the parking process on the top of the range models and you also get a reversing camera in the package. It’s taken me a while but I’m becoming a big fan of this camera system.

There’s 18 models in the 2008 range now and the three cylinder 1.2litre PureTech 130 on test was a hugely impressive performer with Peugeot claiming best in class figures of 58.9mpg and CO2 levels of 110g/km as the company pursues more buyers from the petrol sector.

The UK range is composed of Euro 6 PureTech and BlueHDi engines, in manual and automatic. Offering power ratings of 82 to 130hp, its CO₂ emissions are restricted from 96 to 114g/km. Four types of engine are ‘Best-in-Class’ in their segment, including the new 1.2L PureTech 130 on test.

Peugeot has sold over 40,000 versions of the 2008 in the UK since launch back in 2013 when the emphasis was focused clearly on the impressive new grip control system. Focus has now shifted to improved performance and a more rugged look and a sales target in the petrol sector.

Prices start at £13,615 and top out at £20,565 while the model on test hits the road at £19,215 – a competitive price for an SUV which should keep you on the straight and narrow in most day-to-day conditions.

But remember this is not a competitor in the 4X4 market or you’ll find yourself bogged down.