Peugeot ready to dominate small SUV segment

The Peugeot 2008 is priced from $33,990 up to $45,9990 and is for sale from next month. Photo: Peugeot NZ

Peugeot New Zealand has released details of the new 2008 small-SUV that is priced from $33,990 and ready to take on the likes of Kia and Hyundai in this segment.

The new 2008 offers segment-leading technology, unheralded levels of interior appointment and a renowned dynamic driving experience, says Peugeot NZ.

 “The new Peugeot 2008 SUV is an aspirational vehicle with distinctive aesthetics, it is loaded with impressive technology and delivers performance in keeping with its bold, eye-catching design,” said the CEO of Peugeot New Zealand, Chris Brown.

 “However, and perhaps most impressively, the 2008 SUV is available from only $33,990, meaning the new model represents outstanding value as well as attainable luxury.”

 There are three models in the range, with each trim-level offering added value in terms of features and content.  The line-up consists of Active, mid-specification Allure and range-topping GT ($33,990, $39,990 and $45,990 respectively, plus on-road costs). 

Key attributes of the new model relate to technology, quality and design flair, all of which combine to make for a highly desirable proposition.

 “One of the standout features of the new 2008 SUV is the Peugeot 3D i-Cockpit, a 10-inch configurable 3D head-up display instrument panel. This is the first time this technology has been available in New Zealand,” said Brown.

The new 2008 has 3D i-Cockpit, and a 10-inch configurable 3D head-up display instrument panel. Photo: Peugeot NZ

 “It not only demonstrates the level of know-how incorporated into the new SUV, but contributes to make the 2008 an even safer place to be when driving.”

 Available on Allure and GT, the Peugeot 3D i-Cockpit is a unique system which places information in the driver's line of sight.  It projects the instrument cluster like a hologram, resulting in an outstanding 3D effect, providing an enhanced experience in terms of how information is projected for the driver.

 Another significant technological development associated with the new model and available on the GT is semi-autonomous driving capability called Peugeot Drive Assist. 

The GT also includes a semi-automated parking assistance, taking care of the steering function for parallel and bay parking scenarios.

 The 2008 GT has a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 114kW of power, which is delivered for the first time ever via an all-new eight speed automatic transmission with Quickshift technology. This results in fast, fluid gear changes and an impressive fuel efficiency figure of 6.1l/100km (CO2 emissions 138 g/100km).

 “The 2008 SUV is confident, surefooted and makes even the shortest of journeys into an invigorating adventure.  The performance on offer can, when desired, provide for a truly sport-orientated driving experience,” said Brown.

“The other strength inherent to Peugeot is the dynamic driving experience underpinned by the award winning pure-tech engines (four-times winner of the International Engine of the Year: 2015-18), delivering performance, fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions.”

 The Active and Allure offer a slightly different powertrain setup, resulting in power of 96kW and fuel efficiency of 6.5l/100km (CO2 emissions 148 g/100km), achieved with a six-speed automatic transmission. 

The Peugeot 2008 GT gets the ‘three-claw’ (above) headlight design. Photo: Peugeot

Variations of LED-headlights feature across the range, while GT gains the signature ‘three-claw’ headlight design.

 “The 2008 is very much a driver's car, this becomes apparent as soon as you sit in the vehicle and take hold of the distinctively Peugeot, compact leather steering wheel,” said Brown. 

 “The dashboard and information controls are orientated towards the driver, everything is close to hand and attractive toggle switchgear makes for a crisp and uncluttered interior.”

 An extensive suite of active and passive safety features ensure the 2008 SUV is well equipped to help protect vehicle occupants.  All models have ABS with Electronic Braking Distribution and Emergency Braking Assistance, plus Electronic Stability Program with Hill-Start Assist. 

Similarly, all three variants have Driver Attention Alert and Forward Collision Warning as standard, as well as Active Emergency Braking which is further enhanced on the GT with addition of night function with cyclist detection.

Other handy driver assist features standard across the range include driver attention alert, speed limit sign recognition and recommendation as well as front collision warning.

A 180-degree colour reversing camera and rear parking sensors are standard on all models, with the Allure and GT receiving the added benefit of front parking sensors.

The new Peugeot also has new technology including speed limit sign recognition (above). Photo: Peugeot NZ

All models include Bluetooth, Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, voice recognition function, steering wheel mounted controls and a smartphone docking station.   

Rear folding seats with a 60/40 split contribute to all-round load carrying capability, resulting in a highly practical 1044-litres of functional loading space.

“We have high expectations for the new Peugeot 2008 SUV thanks to a combination of features and attributes including world-first technology, sports-orientated performance as well as a compelling price across the range,” said Brown.

“The new model is aspirational, attainable and, quite frankly, anything but ordinary.  The Peugeot 2008 SUV has every opportunity to establish itself as one of the favourite models in the segment.”

 The new Peugeot 2008 SUV is available for sale from August.