Review: 2023 Peugeot E-2008

Originally launched in the UK in 2020, the electric version of the big-selling Peugeot 2008 has been treated to a facelift and EV upgrade.

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And it’s a timely makeover, because the E-2008 faces some stiff opposition from new electric SUVs such as the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, Smart #1, Jeep Avenger and BYD Atto 3.

> A decent compact family crossover, but what does the old version lack? Read our review of the 2019 Peugeot e-2008

Also available with petrol and diesel engines, all versions of the new 2008 feature sharper styling in an attempt to push the brand more upmarket. The new, wider front end looks bolder and more assertive, while the updated grille now features a lateral pattern and incorporates the new Peugeot shield logo.

There’s also a revised LED daytime running light signature up front, and the three vertical light claws are integrated into gloss black inserts on the bumper.

At the rear, the three-claw light signature again features in the LED tail lamps, while other subtle tweaks give the impression of a wider stance. The new Peugeot 2008 and E-2008 look very similar, but just in case you’re wondering, the EV version features an ‘E’ badge in dichroic blue and white on the front, side and rear.

Inside, the i-Cockpit digital dashboard system has been updated, featuring a different design for the 10-inch instrument cluster (top-spec GT models get a 3D display). Elsewhere, the bigger 10-inch central touchscreen is now standard across the range, and the row of toggle switches remains below for quick access to key functions.

The infotainment system itself has been tweaked and it shows. We liked the new menu layouts and it seemed more responsive.

Additionally, Peugeot’s small, chunky steering wheel gets extra buttons for quick access to features, such as voice control (also activated by saying “OK Peugeot”). Naturally, the steering wheel also boasts the bold new logo, too.

Out of sight, but more importantly, the E-2008 has a larger 54kWh battery (up from 51kWh), which powers a new 154bhp motor on the front axle (an 18% improvement compared with its predecessor).

The bigger battery results in a claimed extra 38 miles of range (up to 251 miles), while the new battery can be boosted from 0-80% in 30 minutes via a 100kW DC rapid connection.

Overnight, it will fully recharge in seven hours and 30 minutes using a 7.4kW wall box.

Inside, the E-2008 features plenty of soft-touch surfaces and quality materials, but it’s not quite premium quality. The driving position is very Peugeot too, featuring a small, low-set steering wheel, with raised, set-back instruments and a central infotainment touchscreen.

It’s not for everybody but, if it works for you, the cabin is a comfortable place and the ride height gives a commanding view of the road. The cabin is wide so there’s ample room for adults in the rear too, while the E-2008’s boot space is the same as its petrol and diesel siblings – 434 litres, or 1,467 litres with the rear seats folded – because the batteries are located under the floor.

On the road, the Peugeot E-2008 is smooth, silent and rides well, hitting 62mph in 9.1 seconds – a fraction faster than the outgoing model. It’s fast enough for everyday driving, but not class-leading if speed matters to you.

Despite the fact that its only front-wheel drive, the grip is decent. Floor it, especially in slippery conditions, and the wheels will spin, so keep it nice and smooth. The steering is light and precise, making it perfect for town driving and low-speed manoeuvres, while the brakes aren’t the most progressive and take a bit of getting used to.

You can also choose between Eco, Normal or Sport drive modes. Sport sharpens up the throttle response, Eco is best left to long motorway runs, but as ever, Normal will do just fine.

The E-2008 is a real all-rounder because it’s also surprisingly agile when hustled on B-roads and it’s a refined motorway cruiser. For extra economy, you can also shift the little gear selector to ‘B’ for extra brake regeneration (useful on downhill stretches), but it’s not quite the one-pedal driving experience you’ll find in some rival EVs.

Based on a day’s driving on mixed roads, we’d estimate the real-world range to be around 200 miles (more in city driving and during the summer), which is more useable than before, but still behind rivals such as the Kona Electric and Niro EV.

Ultimately, the upgraded Peugeot E-3008 is fractionally faster, looks cooler and goes a little further, but it’s up against some stiff opposition.