Used Peugeot 2008 Mk1 (2013-2019) Driving Guide

The first-generation Peugeot 2008, produced from 2013 to 2019, marked Peugeot’s entry into the compact SUV market with a focus on urban practicality and style. This model prioritizes ease of use in city environments while offering reasonable performance for everyday needs. Buyers today can find well-priced examples, but understanding its driving characteristics, powertrain options, and limitations is key to a smart purchase.

Overall Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the Peugeot 2008 Mk1 delivers a relaxed and composed feel, particularly suited for town driving. Its elevated driving position provides good visibility, and light steering makes maneuvering through tight spaces straightforward. The suspension strikes a balance between comfort and control, absorbing urban potholes effectively while maintaining stability during cornering.

On faster roads, however, it reveals some shortcomings. The chassis offers decent body control, but it lacks the sharpness of rivals like the Nissan Juke or Ford EcoSport. Refinement is solid at moderate speeds, with minimal wind and tire noise, though diesel variants can sound gruff under acceleration.

Engine Lineup: Petrol Options

Petrol engines dominate recommendations for short-trip drivers due to their smooth operation. The standout is the 1.2-litre three-cylinder PureTech unit, available in 82bhp, 110bhp, and 130bhp versions post-2014 facelift. The base 82bhp model struggles on inclines or overtakes, posting 0-62mph in over 13 seconds, making it best for flat, low-speed commutes.

The 110bhp and 130bhp variants shine brighter, with turbocharging delivering 205Nm and 230Nm of torque from low revs. They accelerate to 62mph in around 10 seconds, feel peppy in traffic, and return up to 55mpg in mixed driving. Their characterful three-cylinder note adds enjoyment without excessive vibration.

Earlier models featured a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol with 118bhp. It matches the 1.2’s pace but peaks later in the rev range, requiring more throttle input for brisk progress. Fuel economy hovers at 50mpg, but the PureTech’s modernity edges it out.

Diesel Powertrains Explained

Diesels cater to high-mileage users, emphasizing torque and economy. Early options included a 1.4-litre 70bhp unit—avoid this for its lethargy—and 1.6-litre e-HDi engines in 75bhp, 92bhp, 99bhp, and 120bhp tunes. The stronger 120bhp version, with 300Nm, handles motorways confidently, achieving 62mph in 9.5 seconds and over 60mpg.

Later BlueHDi replacements brought a 1.5-litre diesel in 100bhp (250Nm) and 130bhp (300Nm) forms. These are refined for their class, with the 130bhp auto option accelerating briskly at 9.3 seconds to 62mph and topping 120mph. All diesels excel in efficiency but may exhibit diesel clatter when pushed.

Performance data approximated from period tests; real-world figures vary.

Transmission Choices and Matching

Most 2008s pair engines with five-speed manuals, adequate for city use but strained at highways. Six-speed manuals on 120bhp+ diesels and 130bhp petrol improve cruising refinement with taller gearing.

Automatics evolved: pre-facelift four- or five-speed units feel dated and jerky. Post-facelift six-speed torque-converter autos on top engines shift smoothly, enhancing comfort without sapping much pace. Opt for these if manual shifting isn’t preferred.

• Five-speed manual: Standard, light action, suits urban petrols.
• Six-speed manual: Better for diesels, reduces revs on motorways.
• Six-speed auto: Rare, ideal for relaxed long drives.

Ride Quality and Handling Dynamics

Suspension tuning favors comfort, with soft damping that irons out bumps effectively. It’s forgiving on poor roads, though firmer settings on Allure trims add poise. Handling is predictable—decent grip from 195/60 R16 tires—but steering lacks feel, and mid-corner roll is noticeable.

Grip Control on higher trims simulates off-road modes via brake and throttle tweaks, aiding slippery conditions without full AWD complexity. Brakes are progressive, with good stopping power from 70mph.

Best Engines for Specific Needs

Choosing the right powertrain depends on usage:

• City commuting (low miles): 1.2 PureTech 110 manual—peppy, cheap to run.
• Family motorway runs: 1.5/1.6 BlueHDi 120/130—torquey, frugal.
• Budget efficiency: 1.2 PureTech 82, but test thoroughly for power.
• Avoid: 70/75/82bhp for anything beyond local errands.

Common Driving Concerns and Maintenance

While driving traits are solid, watch for PureTech timing belt issues in wet-belt designs post-2018—replace preemptively every 6 years/60,000 miles. Diesels need AdBlue checks on BlueHDi models. Test for clutch slip on manuals and auto shift harshness.

Fuel economy shines in diesels (50-65mpg), petrols 45-55mpg. CO2 emissions range 90-120g/km, keeping road tax low.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Peugeot 2008 Mk1 fun to drive?

It’s comfortable and agile in town but not sporty; rivals like Renault Captur offer more engagement.

Which engine is most reliable?

1.2 PureTech 110/130 with service history; avoid neglected diesels prone to DPF clogs.

How does it handle motorways?

Six-speed models cruise well; weaker engines feel strained above 70mph.

What’s the real-world fuel economy?

Petrols: 45-50mpg; diesels: 55-60mpg combined.

Any driving aids worth noting?

Grip Control helps in snow; basic stability control standard.

Buyer Recommendations

Aim for 2016+ facelifts with PureTech petrol or BlueHDi diesels, Allure spec for features. Budget £6,000-£10,000 for low-mileage gems. Test drive multiple to gauge engine match.