Peugeot e-2008 2020 UK first drive

EVs are coming thick and fast now, and the Peugeot e-2008 follows on from the Peugeot e-208 as Peugeot seeks to make its mark. 

This is the latest in a handful of similar-size models to capitalise on two trends: SUVs and electrification, appealing to those who like SUV styling but are also most suited to an EV: low-mileage urban drivers. 

The e-2008’s most eminent direct rivals are the Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Kona Electric, which follow a similar tack to Peugeot’s strategy: the e-2008 is simply a variant of the new Peugeot 2008, offered alongside petrols and diesels. As the slogan goes: “Choose your Peugeot, choose your powertrain.” 

There are subtle styling differences between them, though: the e-2008 gains an ‘e’ monogram on its front wings and tailgate, a body-coloured grille with horizontal slats (rather than vertical ones) and a snazzy lion logo that changes from blue to green when viewed from different angles. 

The obvious question is range. This car officially has 206 miles on WLTP, significantly less than the 292 miles offered by the Kona. That’s more than enough for most people’s lives, but whether the reassurance of grander numbers is enough to sway buyers is another matter. On a 75-mile stretch of our test that included town, motorway and country roads, the predicted range dropped by 99 miles – admittedly with air-con at full pelt. 

The e-2008 sits on the PSA Group’s new e-CMP platform, following the e-208, DS 3 Crossback E-Tense and Vauxhall Corsa-e, all also siblings of conventional cars. A benefit of this versatile platform is that there’s no compromise on space versus a conventional 2008, but the payoff is the battery’s extra weight. 

The heft – some 300kg more than a petrol 2008 – is evident, especially on rural roads, but despite that, the e-2008 handles respectably everywhere but the tightest corners. Pair that with light and accurate steering and you have yourself a surprisingly dynamic drive – for a compact SUV, at least. 

A respectable ride, especially around town, is another plus. While rivals such as the e-Niro and MG ZS EV are damped to float over speed bumps but compromise body control as a result, the e-2008 is well-judged to manage both, absorbing uneven surfaces but still remaining steady. 

Its 134bhp motor produces the familiar instant torque of EVs (192lb ft in this case), although its delivery is more linear than some and plenty sufficient up to motorway speeds. Change to Sport mode, press the throttle and you feel a satisfying surge – at the cost of range, naturally.