Peugeot 2008: A lion with a new roar

Peugeot 2008: A lion with a new roar

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Peugeot 2008 is a bit of a black sheep—or maybe a golden lion—depending on how you look at it. It’s not trying to be the most spacious or the most powerful.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • How much is the 2025 Peugeot 2008?

    What was once tagged at RM133,388 is now a tempting RM111,888 thanks to a RM21,500 rebate
  • What engine does the Peugeot 2008 have?

    Under the hood lies a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged PureTech engine that churns out 130hp at 5,500rpm and a healthy 230Nm of torque at 1,750rpm
  • What transmission does it have?

    6-speed automatic transmission
  • What warranty does it have?

    A 7-year or 200,000 km warranty—whichever comes first
  • Instead, it’s trying to charm its way into your heart with a unique blend of French flair, clever engineering, and now, a price drop that makes you go, “Wait a minute... really?”

    Peugeot 2008 front

    That’s right. What was once tagged at RM133,388 is now a tempting RM111,888 thanks to a RM21,500 rebate. This feels less like a price adjustment and more like Peugeot shouting, “Hey, look at me!” And you know what? It’s working.

    At first glance, the 2008 doesn’t scream SUV in the traditional sense. It’s not really boxy nor is it really rugged; instead, it’s actually about sleek lines and playful details. As an example. the LED headlamps with Peugeot’s signature 3-Claw DRL design give the front end a sharp, almost predatory look. 

    It’s as if the 2008 is constantly on the prowl, even when parked. When in motion, the daytime running lights cascading from the headlights to the bottom of the front bumper resemble striking fangs, adding an aggressive flair to the car's design. 

    Peugeot 2008 front

    Personally, this is my favorite feature—it gives the car a bold, menacing presence that's hard to ignore.

    Around the back, the 3-claw rear tail lights keep the lion theme going, giving a nod to Peugeot’s heritage while looking thoroughly modern. And those 17-inch alloy wheels? They’re the perfect blend of sporty and sophisticated, a flawless finishing touch to the car’s overall design. 

    Peugeot 2008 rear

    As for the tyres, the 60-profile adds just the right amount of thickness, giving you the confidence to tackle rougher, tougher roads with ease. Unlike many modern SUVs that opt for lower-profile tyres, I appreciate the chunkier setup—it enhances versatility without sacrificing handling or comfort.

    Peugeot didn’t go overboard with the design, though. It’s bold enough to stand out, but it doesn’t veer into trying-too-hard territory. This is the kind of SUV that makes you glance back after you’ve parked it, just to admire it one more time.

    A Cabin Full of French Quirk

    Now, stepping inside the Peugeot 2008 is like walking into a French boutique hotel. It’s different in a good way, stylish, slightly unconventional, but somehow, it all just works. Peugeot’s 3D i-Cockpit is the star of the show here. 

    Peugeot 2008 cabin

    At first, the small flat-top and bottom steering wheel might feel a bit odd—like someone decided to chop off both ends for fun. But give it some time, and you’ll start to appreciate how much easier it is to get in and out of the car, and how it becomes your best friend when you’re driving in tight city streets. I’m saying this based on experience, and not just for the heck of it. 

    Just ask any Peugeot owners how they grow to love it! Funnily enough, once you get used to it, suddenly all other vehicles feel like they have steering wheels that belong in a lorry, it’s quite an experience.

    The 10-inch 3D instrument cluster is an experience in itself too. It layers information in a way that’s not just cool but genuinely helpful. Speed, navigation, and other vital stats are displayed with such clarity that you won’t miss traditional analog dials at all.

    Peugeot 2008 instrument cluster

    The 7-inch infotainment screen, angled toward the driver, is another thoughtful touch. Sure, it’s not the biggest screen out there, but it’s intuitive to use, and the piano toggle switches below it feel like they belong in something much more expensive. Throw in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and you’ve got everything you need to stay connected on the go.

    Peugeot 2008 front seats

    Oh, and let’s not forget the seats. Peugeot has nailed the balance between comfort and support here in my opinion. Whether you’re crawling through city traffic or taking on a weekend road trip, these seats feel like they’re giving you a reassuring hug.

    Peugeot 2008 rear seats

    Big Lion Energy Under the Hood

    Don’t let its compact engine size fool you; the 2008 has some serious bite no matter what stats it has. Under the hood lies a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged PureTech engine that churns out 130hp at 5,500rpm and a healthy 230Nm of torque at 1,750rpm. These numbers might not seem groundbreaking, but in a car this size, they translate to lively performance.

    Peugeot 2008 front

    Merging onto highways or zipping through city streets is effortless, thanks to the torque coming in nice and early. And with a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission, shifts are smooth and predictable, making the 2008 a joy to drive in almost any condition.

    It’s not just about the surprisingly punchy acceleration—the 2008 truly shines when the road gets twisty. Toss it into a corner, and you’ll immediately appreciate the steering’s responsiveness and precision. It starts off light and effortless, then builds a satisfying weight as you add more lock. 

    Peugeot 2008 rear

    The taut chassis complements this beautifully, staying composed even when mid-corner bumps try to unsettle it—a common Achilles’ heel for many cars aiming to be sporty. Not the 2008. Body roll is kept to a minimum, grip is impressively solid for a front-wheel-drive setup, and the overall experience turns every bend into pure driving pleasure.

    The drive mode selector—offering Normal, Eco, and Sport modes—adds a layer of versatility. Switch to Sport, and the 2008 feels eager, almost playful, with a throttle response that encourages spirited driving. Eco mode, on the other hand, is perfect for squeezing every last kilometre out of your tank, while Normal strikes a nice balance for everyday use.

    Peugeot 2008 gearbox

    Practicality Meets Personality

    For a car that prioritizes style, the 2008 doesn’t skimp on practicality. The 434-litre boot is plenty for grocery runs, weekend getaways, or even hauling the occasional IKEA haul.

    Fold down the rear seats, and you get a cavernous 1,467 litres, measured all the way to the roof. Not bad for the smallest Peugeot SUV in the lineup.

    Peugeot 2008 boot space

    Peugeot also packed in a bunch of thoughtful features to make daily driving easier. The Visio Park 180-degree surround camera is a lifesaver in tight parking spots, while features like High Beam Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Active Lane Keep Assist give you peace of mind on longer drives.

    The Elephant—or Lion—in the Room

    Let’s honestly talk about that price drop. At its original price of RM133,388, the Peugeot 2008 was a bit of a hard sell to me. Sure, it’s stylish and fun, but at that price point, it had a problem - it faced stiff competition from rivals that offered more space or bigger engines.

    But now, at RM111,888, the 2008 suddenly feels like a completely different proposition. Suddenly, it’s not just about paying for a stylish European SUV; it’s about getting a car that genuinely feels like a value-packed deal.

    The premium features, the quirky interior, and the fun-to-drive nature all make a lot more sense when you’re not paying over RM130k for it.

    Peugeot 2008 side

    So, Should You Buy One?

    Sure the Peugeot 2008 isn’t for everyone. If you’re after a rugged off-roader or a massive family hauler, this isn’t it. But if you want a compact SUV with personality, style, and now, a much more attractive price tag, the 2008 deserves a serious look, and I mean serious look. 

    It’s the kind of car that grows on you. The more time you spend with it, the more you appreciate the little details—like how the design makes you feel good about driving it, or how the turbocharged engine punches above its weight. You really have to go try it out to notice these wonders.

    Peugeot 2008 side

    Here’s a unique perk of owning a Peugeot in Malaysia: it’s a rare sight on the roads, giving you the chance to truly stand out. In a market filled with the usual choices, the 2008 offers a refreshing sense of individuality and style.

    Add to that the confidence of a 7-year or 200,000 km warranty—whichever comes first—and you’ve got peace of mind to enjoy every moment of owning this distinctive SUV.

    At RM111,888, it’s no longer just a stylish option; it’s a smart one too. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take a closer look at the Peugeot 2008, this price drop is it. 

    Peugeot 2008 front

    So go ahead, take it for a spin—you might just feel the confidence and presence of a lion. After all, a lion’s roar isn’t just about power; it’s about owning its space and standing its ground, much like this SUV does on the road.

    Interested in the Peugeot 2008? Now you can test drive it like never before. The Peugeot Weekender Experience offers up to 3 days with the 2008, letting you see how it fits into your daily life. Whether it’s navigating city streets or heading out for a weekend trip, this is your chance to experience the car in real-world conditions.

    Ready to get started? Register now at peugeotweekenderexperience.com

    Adam Aubrey

    Adam Aubrey

    Adam Aubrey is an experienced writer and presenter with over a decade in the automotive industry, known for his passion for rebuilding older cars from the golden era of automotive design. His work also delves into the future of vehicles, highlighting the exciting potential of electric propulsion.

    Read Full Bio

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