Overview

If you need a family friendly electric car that’s hard to tell from a petrol one, the Peugeot e-2008 has proved a popular choice since it went in sale in 2020. It’s been perfect for those who don’t want to make an EV statement, and we rather like the approach. For 2023, and to keep pace with newer rivals, it’s been given a mid-life facelift sporting a fresh new look.

But the approach remains the same. If you want a Peugeot 2008-shaped car, you can choose between petrol or this electric e-2008. They’re both available with the same trim level choice as well. That’s bound to boost its appeal to buyers feeling intimidated by opting for an electric car.

The Peugeot now finds itself up against plenty of competitors including newcomers like the BYD Atto 3. There’s a fresh Hyundai Kona Electric if you fancy something bolder, and we can’t forget it’s sibling. The Kia Niro EV might not be quite as new as the Kona, but its a sensible choice. Speaking of sensible, the MG ZS EV is a low-price option that’s still practical. Then there’s the e-2008’s platform buddies including the Citroen e-C4, and Vauxhall Mokka Electric. With all these rivals, a more efficient motor, additional power and a new infotainment system have been squeezed in to keep it competitive.

There’s still only one power unit, which now develops 156hp (up from 136), and it retains all the advantages of instant and effortless pulling power from a standing start that you’d expect from an electric car. According to Peugeot, it offers a range of 251 miles (WLTP standard), up from 214.

Like all 2008s, the electric version is available in several trims. The entry-level Active, which comes with LED headlights, air conditioning and a comprehensive suite of safety kit. The Allure adds larger wheels and fully-specced infotainment set-up with reversing camera, while the GT and First Edition models gain plusher trim, and connected services for the infotainment set-up.

Its uprated 54kWh (50kWh usable) battery pack means it doesn’t have as big a range as the Kia Niro EV or Hyundai’s long-range Kona Electric, but Peugeot’s electric SUV is cheaper than both. It comes with a 100,000-mile eight-year battery warranty for 70% of its charging capacity. You get a selection of drive modes, which alter the level of energy recovery when braking.

It comes with a 7.4kW on-board charger (an 11kW unit is optional), which will replenish the battery pack in eight hours when plugged into a typical domestic wallbox. The maximum is a 100kW DC rapid charge, which will restore 80% power in 30 minutes. You can remotely control charging, and even heat up the car before you set off.

Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the updated Peugeot e-2008 and rating them in our verdict. Our scores will take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run.