Sales of small SUVs in Europe are as popular as ever, and almost every automaker has at least one offering in the segment. Peugeot is regularly in the top spots with the 2008 and wants to keep it this way, which is why they are already working on a mid-lifecycle update. The facelifted Peugeot 2008 made its spy debut in the Arctic Circle, giving us the first hints about what is about to change. A few days ago, our spy photographers caught what appeared to be a heavily camouflaged Peugeot 2008 that was rumored to be destined for South America. This time, they spotted a different prototype with a very light camo wrap covering the rear end. This is most likely the upcoming update for the European model which was originally introduced in 2019.
Starting with the covered part, the camo
is hiding a pair of redesigned taillights, alongside small changes on the
tailgate and the rear bumper. Those will likely be inspired by the more recent
Peugeot 408, including the more modern LED graphics and Peugeot’s new emblem
between them. The prototype also has the dual exhaust pipes of the ICE-powered
GT trim. The uncovered portion of the bodywork is identical to the current
Peugeot 2008 but this doesn’t mean it will stay like that. We expect changes to
be focused on the front end, which will most likely gain a revised pattern for
the grille, the new emblem, and a fresh pair of LED headlights featuring triple
fangs in line with Peugeot’s latest design language. Interior upgrades could
include new software for the digital cockpit and new options for the
trim/upholstery.
The CMP-based SUV will remain available in
ICE-powered and fully electric forms, although engine options will be updated.
The 1.5-liter BlueHDi diesel will likely be dropped from the range, while the
current 1.2-liter PureTech petrol is going to be replaced by the new
mild-hybrid 1.2-liter unit mated with an electrified dual-clutch gearbox and a
48V battery. The new motor produces 134 hp, bringing a 15%
reduction in fuel consumption and allowing zero-emission driving for up to 1 km
(0.6 miles) at low speeds. Last but not least, the fully electric Peugeot
E-2008 will retain its position at the top of the range benefiting from similar
styling updates. Just like the rest of the mechanically-related Stellantis EVs,
it will feature the incrementally larger 51 kWh battery and the stronger 154 hp electric motor powering the front wheels.
The facelifted Peugeot 2008 is expected to
debut in 2024, following the debut of the updated Peugeot 208 supermini in
2023. This means it will arrive very close to the mid-lifecycle updates of the
Renault Captur and Ford Puma rivals, spicing up the fight for the B-SUV crown.
