2013 PEUGEOT 1.6L VTi 4AT FWD (120 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Since the customers started asking for more crossovers and SUVs, even automakers with little experience in these types of vehicles found ways to offer something suitable, such as the Peugeot with its 2008.

Peugeot’s experience in the SUV segment is minimal. But soon, it discovered that it didn’t need that since most European customers bought 2WD crossovers. Thus, the French automaker considered modifying its platforms so it could have something to offer them. And that’s how the 2008 came on the market in 2013.

Based on the same platform as the Peugeot 208 SW, the 2008 was more of a regular station wagon with a mild lift kit, and that’s where the higher ground clearance came from. In addition, the automaker considered creating a new bodywork. At the front, the feline-like headlights followed the brand’s design language, but the large plastic bumper sported a black lower side that was abrasive-resistant. To further emphasize the SUV look, the carmaker added a set of fog lamps inside silver trims, flanking the lower grille. However, from its profile, it mostly resembled a station wagon that was decorated with unpainted rocker panels. At the back, Peugeot installed additional protections under the bumper.

The car’s interior was unusually spacious for its segment. Fronting the driver was the same small-sized steering wheel as in the 208 range and a generous instrument cluster. Atop the center stack, Peugeot installed a 7″ touchscreen for the infotainment system. The seats, on the other hand, were better than those available in the regular 208 SW, with high-bolstered areas and unique upholstery. At the back, the rear split-folding bench could expand the trunk’s volume from a decent 350 liters (12.4 cu-ft) to a respectable 1,194 liters (42.2 cu-ft).