Peugeot E-2008 (2023) Review: Stylish Electric SUV

by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Peugeot e-2008, the all-electric version of Peugeot's popular compact SUV. If you're in the market for a stylish, zero-emission ride that's perfect for city living and weekend getaways, then buckle up because this review is for you. We'll cover everything from its design and performance to its range, charging, and overall practicality. So, let's get started and see if the Peugeot e-2008 is the right electric vehicle for you!

First Impressions: Design and Style

Let's be real, the Peugeot e-2008 is a looker. It's got that distinctive Peugeot design language that just screams sophistication. The bold front grille, the signature three-claw LED headlights, and the sculpted lines all contribute to a modern and eye-catching appearance. The e-2008 definitely stands out from the crowd of other compact SUVs. One of the things that I personally love about the design is how well Peugeot integrated the electric elements. Unlike some EVs that try too hard to look futuristic, the e-2008 keeps it classy and subtle. The charging port is neatly integrated, and the badging is understated. It's a design that appeals to both EV enthusiasts and those who are simply looking for a stylish and well-designed car.

Stepping inside, the interior is just as impressive. Peugeot's i-Cockpit design is present, featuring a small, sporty steering wheel and a high-mounted instrument cluster. This layout gives you a unique driving experience, and while it might take a little getting used to at first, it ultimately feels very intuitive and engaging. The materials used throughout the cabin feel premium, and the overall build quality is excellent. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making the e-2008 a great place to spend time, even on longer journeys. The infotainment system is well-integrated and responsive, with a clear touchscreen display that's easy to navigate. Overall, the design and style of the Peugeot e-2008 are definitely one of its strongest selling points. It's a car that you'll be proud to drive and one that will turn heads wherever you go. Plus, the interior is a genuinely nice place to be, making every journey a pleasure.

Performance and Handling: Zippy and Fun

Now, let's talk about performance. The Peugeot e-2008 is powered by a 100kW (136 horsepower) electric motor, which delivers instant torque and smooth acceleration. It's not going to win any drag races, but it's definitely quick enough for everyday driving. The 0-60 mph time is around 8.5 seconds, which is respectable for a compact SUV. What's more important than the raw numbers is how the e-2008 feels on the road. The electric motor provides a linear and responsive power delivery, making it easy to zip around town and overtake other vehicles. The car feels planted and stable, thanks to its low center of gravity, and the steering is precise and well-weighted. It's a fun car to drive, especially in urban environments.

The e-2008 offers different driving modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport. Eco mode prioritizes efficiency, limiting power output to maximize range. Normal mode provides a good balance between performance and efficiency, while Sport mode unleashes the full potential of the electric motor, delivering quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. The regenerative braking system also helps to improve efficiency by capturing energy during deceleration and feeding it back into the battery. You can adjust the level of regenerative braking to suit your preferences, from a gentle slowdown to a more aggressive one-pedal driving experience. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride over most road surfaces. It's not overly sporty, but it handles corners with confidence and composure. Overall, the performance and handling of the Peugeot e-2008 are well-suited to its intended purpose as a stylish and practical urban EV. It's a car that's easy to drive, fun to own, and capable of handling a variety of driving conditions.

Range and Charging: What to Expect

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: range and charging. The Peugeot e-2008 has a 50 kWh battery, which provides a WLTP range of around 200 miles. However, in real-world conditions, you can expect something closer to 170-180 miles, depending on your driving style, the weather, and the type of roads you're driving on. Still, that's a respectable range for a compact electric SUV, and it should be more than enough for most daily commutes and errands. When it comes to charging, the e-2008 supports both AC and DC fast charging. Using a 7.4 kW home charger, you can fully charge the battery in around 7.5 hours. If you have access to a 22 kW public charger, you can reduce the charging time to around 5 hours. And with a 100 kW DC fast charger, you can add around 80% charge in just 30 minutes. This makes the e-2008 a practical option for longer journeys, as you can easily top up the battery at public charging stations along the way.

To make charging even easier, Peugeot offers a range of connected services that allow you to monitor your battery level, find charging stations, and pre-condition the cabin temperature remotely. This can be especially useful in winter, as you can warm up the car before you leave home, saving energy and extending your range. Of course, range is one of the biggest concerns for potential EV buyers, and it's important to be realistic about what you can expect. While the e-2008's range isn't the best in its class, it's still perfectly adequate for most people's needs. And with the growing availability of public charging infrastructure, it's becoming easier than ever to keep your electric car topped up on the go. The e-2008 strikes a good balance between range, charging time, and practicality, making it a viable option for those who are looking to make the switch to electric.

Practicality and Interior Space: Is it Family-Friendly?

Now, let's talk practicality. The Peugeot e-2008 is a compact SUV, so it's not the most spacious car in the world, but it's surprisingly practical for its size. The trunk offers a decent 434 liters of space, which is enough for a few suitcases or a weekly grocery shop. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more space, making it easier to transport larger items. In terms of passenger space, the e-2008 can comfortably accommodate four adults. There's plenty of headroom and legroom in the front, and the rear seats are also reasonably spacious, although taller passengers may find it a bit cramped on longer journeys. The interior is well-designed and functional, with plenty of storage compartments for your belongings. The door pockets are a good size, and there's a useful center console with cupholders and a storage tray. The infotainment system is easy to use, and the climate control system is effective at keeping the cabin comfortable.

One of the things that I appreciate about the e-2008 is its ease of use. It's a car that's easy to get in and out of, easy to park, and easy to maneuver in tight spaces. This makes it a great choice for city dwellers who need a car that's both practical and convenient. Of course, if you have a large family or regularly need to transport bulky items, you might want to consider a larger SUV. But for most people, the e-2008 offers a good balance between size, practicality, and affordability. It is family-friendly? Well, it depends on the size of your family! It's perfect for small families or couples who need a versatile and efficient car for everyday use.

Tech and Features: What You Get

The Peugeot e-2008 comes packed with tech and features. Standard equipment includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. Higher trim levels add features like a larger 10-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, with a clear and intuitive interface. The digital instrument cluster is also well-designed and provides all the essential information you need at a glance. The safety features are comprehensive and help to make driving safer and more relaxed.

One of the standout features of the e-2008 is its connected services. These allow you to remotely monitor your car's battery level, find charging stations, pre-condition the cabin temperature, and even lock and unlock the doors using your smartphone. These features are incredibly convenient and add an extra layer of functionality to the e-2008. Overall, the tech and features of the Peugeot e-2008 are impressive and help to make it a modern and well-equipped electric car. From the infotainment system to the safety features to the connected services, the e-2008 has everything you need to stay connected, safe, and comfortable on the road. It really feels like Peugeot has thought of everything when it comes to technology and features, making the e-2008 a great choice for tech-savvy drivers. The tech features are modern to offer to the drivers and passengers an immersive experience. The safety feature ensures that driving is safer and relaxed for all.

Price and Value: Is it Worth the Money?

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: price. The Peugeot e-2008 is priced competitively within the electric compact SUV segment. However, it's important to factor in the cost of charging and potential government incentives when evaluating the overall value proposition. While the initial purchase price may be higher than a comparable gasoline-powered car, the running costs of an electric car are significantly lower. You'll save money on fuel, as electricity is typically cheaper than gasoline, and you'll also benefit from lower maintenance costs, as electric cars have fewer moving parts and require less servicing. Government incentives can also help to offset the initial purchase price, making the e-2008 a more affordable option. In terms of value for money, the Peugeot e-2008 offers a compelling package. It's a stylish, well-equipped, and practical electric car that's fun to drive and easy to live with. While it may not be the cheapest electric car on the market, it offers a good balance between price, performance, and features.

If you're looking for a stylish and efficient electric SUV, the e-2008 is definitely worth considering. It's a car that will turn heads wherever you go, and it's also a practical and versatile choice for everyday use. Of course, it's important to do your research and compare it to other electric cars in its class before making a final decision. But if you're looking for a well-rounded electric SUV that offers a good balance between style, performance, and value, the Peugeot e-2008 is definitely worth a look. Consider your budget, the value for the money the car offers and the style you want to have. It all depends on you, but this electric car is worth the price.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Peugeot e-2008?

So, should you buy the Peugeot e-2008? Well, after spending some quality time with it, I can confidently say that it's a compelling electric SUV that's well worth considering. It's stylish, fun to drive, practical, and packed with tech. While it may not have the longest range or the lowest price tag, it offers a good balance between all the key factors that make an electric car appealing. If you're looking for a stylish and efficient electric SUV that's perfect for city living and weekend getaways, the Peugeot e-2008 is definitely worth a look. It's a car that will make you feel good about driving electric and one that will turn heads wherever you go. Just be sure to do your research, consider your needs, and take it for a test drive before making a final decision. But overall, the Peugeot e-2008 is a winner in my book!