What follows is an expanded review from that posted previously under the title: Peugeot 2008 GT Line 1.2 PureTech 130 s&s : Waltzing In The Moonlight as, in MotorMartin’s opinion, the 2008 is more than deserving of a little more flesh being added to the bones of the original piece to create a more thorough and rounded review.
The Peugeot 2008 GT Line 1.2 PureTech 130 S&S takes all that is good about the traditional SUV and gives it a sporting slant, producing a crossover that compliments it’s off road styling with a black front grill and sporting features. I particularly like the Pearlescent white paint finish that provides a contrast to the superb 17” Eridan Brilliant Black alloy wheels and that’s not all as the added height of Peugeot’s newest SUV allows for a far more aggressive stance than some of the smaller cars in their range. Based on the evergreen 208, there are familiar touches all around with the front and rear lights in particular showing the direct lineage back to the smaller car. Highlights for MotorMartin are the raised roofline and roof bars, high waistline and those oh so subtle curves that accentuate the rear wheel arches and by definition, rear wheels. This is a thoroughly modern, good looking Crossover and for that, Peugeot should most definitely be applauded.
The engine choices for the 2008 are numerous, including both diesel and petrol with power output ranging from 75bhp up to a very healthy 130bhp. The 2008 GT Line on test arrived with it’s quick revving 1199cc petrol engine delivering the full compliment of 130bhp at 5500rpm and emissions of just 110g/km, meaning an annual tax rate of only £20.00. Combine that with claimed mpg of 58.9 and this will work out as a cheap car to run everyday and when mixed with a top speed of 124mph and a 0-62 time of 9.3s, you end up with that perfect combination of both fun and efficiency.
The 2016 edition 2008 GT Line is a willing performer out on the road. The engine provides plenty of versatile power, pulling from low down in the range and spinning up quickly once the revs begin to build. In and around town, the Peugeot provides a good quality ride, soaking up most road imperfections and this being the GT Line, the handling once out of town is far better than you expect as the lack of body roll through the bends provides a safe but exciting package.
What’s so impressive is the real sense of surprise that accompanies each and every journey in the 2008 GT Line, in much the same way as with the exceptional Peugeot 308 SW GT Line BlueHDi 120 reviewed last year, Peugeot would appear to have cracked the trickiest of ideals and created sensible, practical ‘real life’ motors that can still stir the emotions and excite in equal measures. That GT Line badge not only creates a sportier look to the exterior and interior of the 2008 but, perhaps more importantly, adds character and verve to the overall driving experience.
The real innovation however, arrives with Peugeot’s Grip Control, a feature that optimises traction in low-grip conditions, adapting to the road by acting on the front wheels, using the electronic components already present on the vehicle. Crucially, Peugeot say, the driver remains in control and can decide at any time to move from Standard mode using the dial located on the centre console, choosing instead Mud, Sand, Snow or ESP Off. And you know what, it really works. The conditions throughout MotorMartin’s week with the 2008 could be described as slippery at best but with a quick turn of that magical dial and the Peugeot hunkers down and just gets on with the job of maximising grip. Deeply impressive.
With the GT Line including a Celio Panoramic Glass Roof with Electric Sun Blind and Ambient Lighting, Aluminion door sills and pedals and GT Line mats, this is a sporty cabin which matches the exterior for style whilst providing excellent comfort for up to five adults. Peugeot have also included cruise control and speed limiter, Rear parking aid, Visibility pack (automatic headlights, windscreen wipers and electrochrome rear view mirror), Electric Rear Windows, ‘One touch’, anti-pinch, electric windows (All), Tinted rear and rear side windows, reversing camera and satellite navigation. Peugeot haven’t scrimped on safety either as the 2008 also includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Anti-Lock Braking (ABS), 6 x airbags (front driver & passenger, side airbags and curtain airbags), ISOFIX location mounts and Tyre Pressure Sensors. There really is nothing that you could realistically want that isn’t already included in this Peugeot 2008 GT Line 1.2 PureTech 130 s&s and what MotorMartin really likes is that all of this technology has a point, it’s not just there to create headlines but actually helps and aids the driver in the day to day use of this Superb SUV. Added to the above, the Peugeot has an impressive 422 litres of boot space and rear seats that fold down to create even more space.
The Peugeot 2008 is an impressive performer amongst the competition and deserves to do well as it has impressive manners combined with a willing and efficient engine. If you’re in the market for a good value crossover, one that offers exceptional manners and practicality and a starting price of just £13,970, in MotorMartin’s opinion, it’s definitely worth a look.
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