Out in the cold of Northern Sweden, spy photographers caught a mysterious prototype testing on an ice track with very heavy camouflage. A closer look reveals that the SUV is most likely a Peugeot 2008 in disguise, with the latest rumors suggesting it is destined for South America. The cardboard-style camouflage with large black panels taped on the bodywork hide most of the details of the SUV, but its identity is revealed by the alloy wheels, the LED headlights, the lower bumper intake, the door handles, and the position of the high-mounted taillights. All those features point out to the current Peugeot 2008, even though the pattern on the grille looks a bit different.
The second-gen Peugeot 2008 was originally
introduced in 2019, which means that it is already a nice time for a
mid-lifecycle update. The facelifted model could benefit from Peugeot’s new
logo, fresh styling cues, upgraded technology inside the cabin, and the new
mild-hybrid turbocharged 1.2-liter PureTech engine to be offered as an
alternative to the fully electric E-2008 variant.
While we are indeed waiting for a
facelifted Peugeot 2008, spy photographers suggest that this prototype is a
“new generation” of the B-SUV for South American markets, that could be
produced in the El Palomar plant in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This version of
the Peugeot 2008 would still be based on the CMP architecture and have lots in
common with its European counterpart. However, it will reportedly adapt to the
specific needs of South America meaning it will get cheaper materials and
different powertrain options. The latter could be sourced from Fiat, since both
companies are under the Stellantis umbrella.
We will keep an eye out for more sightings
of Peugeot 2008 prototypes in the near future, in order to see if the French
automaker is indeed testing the facelifted model or its cheaper cousin from
(and for) South America.
