[dropcap]W[/dropcap]hen Peugeot launched its 2008 compact crossover in 2013, it recognized the growing demand for smaller, more versatile vehicles linking agile dynamics and a broader range of capabilities to a smart, comfortable and flexible interior.
Four years later, the new 2008 SUV has emerged as major success story, with global sales for the period exceeding the 760 000 mark. Not content to rest on its laurels, Peugeot has now unveiled a mid-life update that places a stronger emphasis on the 2008 SUV’s all-terrain DNA.
The new 2008 SUV model range will be launched to the public in South Africa on Friday, 17 March 2017.
The refreshed 2008 SUV is a real head turner, with a series of aesthetic embellishments that will make motorists sit up and take notice.
The basic profile, with its stepped roofline, pronounced haunches and raked windscreen remains instantly recognisable, but there have been significant changes to the front styling and exterior detailing.
At the same time, the interior has been upgraded to match the exceptional design and execution standards set by the award-winning 308 hatchback. The much-publicised i-Cockpit now includes a generous 7’’ colour touch-screen display, with latest-generation connectivity and ergonomics.
Equipment levels have been further enhanced, ensuring that the 2008 SUV offers an even more extensive range of standard convenience and safety features than before. At the same time, Peugeot has introduced the sporty GT Line trim level to augment the Active and Allure packages. The 2008 SUV GT Line becomes the new flagship of the range.
The 2017 Peugeot 2008 SUV range consists of four models, spanning two engine choices, two transmission choices and three trim levels. The highly-specced Active model provides the entry point to the refreshed 2008 SUV range, and is offered in conjunction with Peugeot’s efficient and responsive 1,6-litre HDI turbo-diesel engine, coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox.
The two Allure models occupy the 2008 SUV range’s middle ground. The first links the Active’s turbo diesel engine and manual gearbox to the more comprehensive standard equipment list and elegant execution associated with the Allure package.
The second Allure model introduces the second drivetrain offered in the 2008 SUV line-up: an advanced PureTech 1,2-litre turbo petrol engine, coupled with a new six-speed automatic gearbox. The high specification level of the Allure package is identical across both models.
Assuming the flagship role, and introducing the GT Line trim level to the 2008 SUV for the first time, the 2008 GT Line boasts a sporty, crimson-themed execution inside and out, and an even more extensive list of key features, to Peugeot’s advanced PureTech turbo petrol engine and six-speed auto gearbox. The technical specification is identical to that of the Allure 1.2 PureTech Auto version.
“The arrival of this thoroughly revised Peugeot 2008 SUV range marks an important step forward for the model in an increasingly competitive segment,” says Francis Harnie, Managing Director of Peugeot South Africa.
“The new 2008 SUV ’s global success is already well established, and the upgrades, which include a more purposeful styling package, enhanced interiors and a choice of fuel-efficient, responsive drivetrains, should further extend our small SUV’s popularity.”
Harnie points out that the arrival of the revitalised 2008 SUV also serves as unambiguous proof of the PSA Group’s commitment to South Africa.
“The new 2008 SUV is the first of three significant new model releases planned for this year, all aimed at strengthening Peugeot’s presence in the country. While we are focusing on the Peugeot brand in the Southern African market as far as new products are concerned, our commitment to looking after all our existing customers across the PSA model spectrum as far as aftersales and servicing are concerned, remains undiminished,” Harnie concluded.
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