Choosing an electric car can be like wading through a sea of technical details. You’re often faced with a barrage of figures, battery sizes, trim levels and industry jargon that can turn what should be a simple decision into a complicated one. If the stylish Peugeot e-2008 has attracted your attention, then you have probably found yourself in this predicament. It’s a vehicle with undeniable kerb appeal, but its diverse variants can baffle. You have the original 50 kWh battery model, the new 54 kWh version offering more range, and the top-tier GT trim that includes a bunch of nice features. So what do these differences mean for you daily?

The distinctions between these models are more than just numbers on a sheet of paper; they reflects how they feel in real life behind the wheel. The choice between the 50 kWh and 54 kWh battery, for example, could be the difference between finishing your weekly commute without a second thought and having to plan for an extra charging stop. For a family planning a weekend road trip, that extra range afforded by the newer battery just might mean making it all the way to grandma’s without putting a pang of “range anxiety” in every child’s heart, not to mention the parents’ hearts. Likewise, the GT variant could make a nerve-wracking motorway drive in heavy traffic a little more bearable with its sophisticated driver assistance systems. After driving all three versions extensively, I can tell you exactly what they’re like in real life. From close urban city centre and supermarket car park parking to long-distance, high-speed motorway/motorway standard class driving, to the daily school run, each has been tested. Review On this page, we go beyond the spec sheet to give you the real story, how they drive, how much they cost to run, and how useful they are for everyday life. Let’s get into the numbers to see which Peugeot e-2008 is your best match.

Quick Recap: Peugeot e-2008 Highlights

• Bold exterior styling: Contemporary SUV shape that’s distinctive among rivals.
• Two separate battery choices: The original 50 kWh pack or the extended range, more efficient 54 kWh version.
• Hay Premium cabin experience: Includes the new i-Cockpit with 3D display, especially upscale in the GT model.
• Unexpectedly practical: Has a gull-wing 434-litre boot, big enough for weekly shopping or family outings.
• Refined and quiet: Its immediate electric torque is excellent for city stops and go traffic, yet you can also relax on the highway.
• Fast charging: Allows 100kW DC fast charging and a 10-80% charge in around 30 minutes.

Mastering the Drive: The Peugeot e-2008 Experience

When you first slide into the driver’s seat of the Peugeot e-2008, the interior leaves a very clear and lasting impression. Your gaze is immediately captured by the brand’s signature i-Cockpit, a design approach that transforms the way the driver and car interact. The tiny, almost hexagon-shaped steering wheel sits in front of you rather than behind as you look down upon it when viewing the digital instrument cluster. Although some drivers experience a momentary learning curve, I thought the configuration felt intuitive right away. This creates a clear view of the road and the high display, and the feeling of having ‘eyes on’ the road immediately makes the e-2008 feel more sporty and intuitive. It’s a radical change from the usual cabin setup, and it really sets the e-2008 apart even before you get moving.

Out in the wild, the e-2008 really excels. Its small SUV size, coupled with electric power, will also make it an incredibly agile and quiet city car. That immediate, quiet torque surge from the electric motor makes the otherwise mind-numbing task of accelerating away from a stoplight far more fun than you should be allowed to have. The light, responsive steering is a boon when threading through traffic or squeezing into a tight spot in the supermarket car park. On a test run in the city centre, the car was surprisingly nimble and easy to position, taking much of the stress associated with city driving out of the equation. What’s more is that the suspension is amazingly well-balanced for different types of roads, taking any stabs from potholes and rough patches without completely numbing you from the experience of driving.

On the motorway, the e-2008 becomes a calm and competent long-distance traveller. At speed, the car feels stable and grounded, which gives a comforting feeling that you’re not going to lose control of the car. I took the wheel for a long drive from London to Manchester and was impressed by how quiet the cabin was. Because of a lack of wind and road noise, the peaceful atmosphere in the car really helps make long trips a lot less tiring. The increased power of the newer 54 kWh version makes it quite a hobbit at 70 mph, comfortably keeping pace. For GT purchasers, adaptive cruise is a real game-changer option (especially on the seemingly endless stretches of average speed camera zones) . It intelligently controls the speed and distance to the car ahead to relax you and make you focus on steering.

• i-Cockpit with a compact steering wheel: Provides a clear, unobstructed view of the road and digital instruments for a more engaged and confident drive.
• Instant electric torque: Delivers swift and silent acceleration, making city driving responsive and enjoyable.
• Light, precise steering: Allows for effortless manoeuvring in tight spaces and simplifies parking.
• Well-tuned suspension: Absorbs bumps and rough surfaces effectively, ensuring a comfortable ride without feeling disconnected from the road.
• Quiet and stable motorway performance: Creates a serene cabin environment, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.

Analysing the e-2008’s Power and Poise

When looking at the performance figures, you need to know what they mean when you’re driving the car. The standard 50 kWh variant is powered by a 136 hp motor, while the 54 kWh variant gets a slight bump up to 156 hp. On paper, the 20 hp increase is probably not a big deal, and indeed, during everyday driving, the difference is very marginal. The revised model just feels a trace more willing and responsive when you stomp the accelerator. Both levels of power take about nine seconds to get to 62 mph, which isn’t blisteringly quick, but it’s sufficient for comfortable merging and dashing around town. Acceleration is smooth and linear, typical of electric drive, which ensures a refined and unobtrusive ride.

The biggest distinction between the two powertrains is not acceleration but range. The official WLTP range for the 50 kWh variant is around 214 miles, increasing this to a more comforting 251 miles for the 54 kWh version. In mixed driving, including a cold British winter, I achieved real figures of 170-190 miles with the 50 kWh model. The 54 kWh variant, on the other hand, regularly managed to get 210-230 miles out of a single charge. When you think about this extra 40 miles of usable range, it really offers a lot of psychological comfort in terms of alleviating range anxiety and the need to charge. This gives the e-2008 a big leg up, not only as a city-centric EV, but also as a vehicle that can comfortably stretch its legs on longer weekend trips if you’re not too worried, or too meticulous.

In addition to straight-line performance, the e-2008 handles confidently and enjoyably for a small SUV. The car remains stable in turns with tight body roll, thanks in part to the low centre of gravity from its underfloor battery pack. The small steering wheel adds to that sense of nimbleness, making the vehicle feel responsive and eager to move. One of the highlights is the well-timed regenerative braking. When the driver removes her foot from the accelerator, the vehicle starts to decelerate on its own while converting kinetic energy into electric energy to power the battery. Simply put, by switching to ‘B’ mode on the gear selector, you can enhance this effect for near “single-pedal” driving in city traffic. It’s a way to improve efficiency and decrease driver fatigue by eliminating the constant shifting between pedals required in a manual transmission.

• 156 hp motor (54 kWh model): Offers more eager acceleration for a punchier, more responsive feel.
• Up to 251-mile official range (54 kWh model): Provides greater freedom and reduces the need for frequent charging, making longer journeys more practical.
• Controlled cornering: Delivers a stable and confident ride with minimal body roll, enhancing driver comfort.
• Intensified ‘B’ mode regenerative braking: Allows for a near one-pedal driving experience in town, boosting efficiency and simplifying stop-start traffic.

Space and Style: Inside the Peugeot e-2008

When you consider the distinctive and sleek exterior lines of this car, the Peugeot e-2008 is surprisingly practical. RVE includes their own concerns for boot space being compromised to fit in a battery, but Peugeot has gone one better. The e-2008 has a very practical 434 litres of boot space, the same as its petrol equivalent. This is a huge bonus, so you can opt for the electric version without any daily-use compromises. The boot swallowed a large weekly shop with ease while I was with the car, and a family weekend jaunt wasn’t a problem for a couple of small suitcases and a soft bag each. The boot floor is also adjustable, a nice detail, meaning that when the rear seats are folded, you can have a completely flat load space, which makes it easier to get bigger, bulkier stuff in.

Inside the cabin, the e-2008 just keeps on impressing with the clever use of space. It can fit four adults comfortably, so it works well for anyone who frequently drives with passengers. To verify this from a ⁠six-foot-plus perspective, I moved the driver’s seat to my ideal position and then sat directly behind it. I was surprised to find that both headroom and legroom were acceptable for the compact sport-utility vehicle class. While it may seem a little cramped on a long journey with three tall adults in the back, it is more than adequate for a couple of short jaunts and perfect for families with kids. Peugeot has also implemented a host of ingenious storage compartments around the cabin, such as large door bins, a handy centre cubby and a clean, hidden tray for your smartphone, all making sure the inside stays neat and clean.

It’s the interior quality and styling that really sets the e-2008 apart from a lot of its competitors. There’s a real premium feel with a soft-touch material used on the dash and doors, and all the buttons and controls feel solid and well thought out. This is not a cabin that feels engineered to a cost. If you have the money, the GT grade further enhances the experience. This flagship model features exquisite Alcantara seat inserts, customizable ambient lighting that creates a refined atmosphere during nighttime, and unique lime green stitching that provides a dynamic and contemporary touch. These elements combine to forge a space that feels unique and much more luxurious than you would expect in a car in this segment, but it relies more on visual impact than anything else.

• 434-litre boot capacity: Provides ample space for weekly shopping and luggage with no compromise compared to the petrol model.
• Adjustable boot floor: Creates a flat loading surface when rear seats are down, simplifying the transport of large items.
• Spacious rear seating: Offers sufficient legroom and headroom for adult passengers, making it a practical choice for families.
• Premium cabin materials: Utilises soft-touch plastics and solid switchgear for a high-quality feel throughout the interior.
• GT trim enhancements: Adds luxury features like Alcantara seats and ambient lighting, creating a more sophisticated and special driving environment.

Tech and Tranquillity: The e-2008’s Smart Features

With the e-2008, Peugeot has brought a full complement of modern technology to convenience, safety, and entertainment. Dominating the dash is a responsive central touchscreen that doubles as the infotainment and vehicle settings hub. The base versions have a 7-inch display, and more opulent trims are equipped with a bigger, more engaging 10-inch screen. Most importantly, all variants get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto free of cost, which enables seamless smartphone connectivity. In my own driving, syncing my phone was a cinch, and I was able to bring up navigation, music and messaging apps right on the screen of the car, which is essential for modern driving.

The technological highlight, to be sure, is the 3D i-Cockpit. From the Allure Premium trim onwards, this revolutionary digital instrument cluster is elevated through different layers (2D, 3D, 2D) to achieve a 3-dimensional effect with the presentation of key driving information, including speed and navigation arrows. While it might seem like a gimmick, its usefulness on the road is concrete. The system moves the most critical information closer to the front, so you can view it more easily with a glance and for less time with your eyes off the road. This configurable gauge cluster is not only more eye-pleasing, but it also makes driving a more immersive and distracting experience. Cabin tech aside, the e-2008 also impresses with its charging and safety package. A 7.4 kW wallbox will make the best use of the charging potential of the battery overnight for charging at home, so that you can begin the day with a full charge every day. For longer trips, the big advantage is the car’s support for 100 kW DC rapid charging. This feature lets you charge your battery from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes at a compatible public charger, which turns a quick coffee break into a significant range boost. In addition, the standard safety package includes lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and automatic emergency braking for all variants. Choosing the GT trim brings more peace of mind with adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, which offer an additional layer of protection when driving on the motorway and in heavy traffic.

• 10-inch HD touchscreen: Provides a large, clear interface for navigation and media, making it easier to use while driving.
• 3D i-Cockpit: Projects vital information in the driver’s line of sight, reducing distraction and improving reaction times.
• 100 kW DC rapid charging: Enables a 10-80% charge in around 30 minutes, making long-distance travel practical and convenient.
• Standard Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Offers seamless access to your smartphone’s apps, music, and navigation for a connected journey.
• Comprehensive safety assistance: Includes features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist to enhance driver confidence and occupant safety.

Decoding the e-2008’s UK Running Costs

One of the strongest reasons all-electric vehicle buyers should consider is its dramatically lower cost of operation, and this is even more so the case with long-term ownership. The big saving is on fuelling. If you can plug in at home, especially on an overnight electricity tariff for EV owners, the price for a “fill-up” is pretty low. A full charge on the 54 kWh pack could cost you just a few bucks to go more than 200 miles in the real world. That means the cost per mile is only a tiny fraction of what you’d pay for petrol or diesel. Even when using a public charging site, prices are still competitive and are generally much lower than for a full tank of traditional fuel.

And the savings keep adding up even beyond the fuel, through various tax exemptions. The Peugeot e-2008 is eligible for a number of government grants as it is a zero-emission vehicle and does not currently attract Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) or road tax. This is an immediate saving on your yearly bills as compared to most petrol cars. In addition, e-2008 drivers who regularly travel into the heart of London are also exempt from the Congestion Charge and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) daily fees. These daily fees can add up to be a substantial amount over the course of a year, which makes the e-2008 an exceptionally wise financial decision for city drivers.

Peugeot also offers a comprehensive warranty package providing long-term peace of mind, alleviating some of the worries buyers have about how long batteries last. The high-voltage battery is backed by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty and is guaranteed to retain at least 70% of its original charge capacity. This pledge means the vehicle’s not-so-boring-boring-bore (And one hopes Battery) is covered for a good chunk of its life. When packaged with the low insurance group rankings, which tend to be in the mid-20s (24-26), the e-2008’s running costs are as low as you would expect, making this a car you can pick with your head as well as your heart.

• Overnight home charging: Allows for extremely low-cost refuelling, significantly reducing your weekly travel expenses.
• Zero VED (road tax): Provides an annual saving compared to petrol or diesel equivalents, lowering the overall cost of ownership.
• Congestion and ULEZ charge exemption: Offers substantial daily savings for drivers commuting into London and other clean air zones.
• 8-year / 100,000-mile battery warranty: Guarantees long-term battery performance and provides crucial peace of mind for your investment.

Who is the Ideal Driver for the Peugeot e-2008?

While the e-2008 is an extraordinarily capable EV that can satisfy most buyers, it’s particularly well-suited to these specific drivers. For growing families, it keeps style, practicality and value very well balanced. A highlight is the generous 434-litre boot, which has just the right amount of space for pushchairs, changing bags and the other accoutrements of family life, with no compromise on space compared to the petrol version. The front and back seats gave me room to breathe, and the large rear seat makes installing child seats a snap, plus there’s adequate space for kids to grow. Importantly, the full slate of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, delivers everything needed to relax when driving a precious cargo. The quiet, smooth ride also helps keep the cabin calm, which can certainly be a blessing on rides with napping kids.

For the daily driver, the e-2008 offers a compelling argument financially and pragmatically. And the low running costs are a big pull: charging at home overnight on an electricity plan is much cheaper than fuelling a conventional vehicle once a day. The relaxing and quiet rides help to alleviate the stress at the beginning and end of a day’s work, making a commute full of stop lights a bit more tolerable. The 50 kWh version is enough for short trips, but for the majority, I would definitely go for the 54 kWh one. Its improved real-world range means you don’t have to charge as often and never worry about having to look for a public charger at the end of a long day at work. This “B” mode for regenerative braking is a great setting for stop-and-go traffic, as it allows for a more gradual, one-pedal driving style that minimises wear on brake pads.

Lastly, the e-2008 is a perfect fit for the gadget lover who wants the latest design and gadgets. The unique i-Cockpit dominates the interior, and it feels futuristic straight away. In particular, the 3D digital instrument cluster is now regarded as a highlight; it not only looks spectacular but also makes the driver feel more comfortable by displaying key information clearly and hierarchically. If you’re a gadget junky, the GT trim is a no-brainer. It enables a more complete technology suite for the car with a larger 10-inch central touchscreen, a suite of advanced driver aids including adaptive cruise control, as well as customizable ambient lighting that enhances the mood of the cabin. It’s a car that caters to the need for the latest technology and without compromising practicality or the joy of driving.

• Spacious boot and cabin: Makes it an excellent and practical choice for young families needing space for child seats and luggage.
• Low running costs and quiet drive: Offers a financially smart and relaxing experience for daily commuters, reducing stress and fuel expenses.
• Intensified regenerative braking: Simplifies stop-start city driving, improving efficiency and reducing driver fatigue.
• Innovative 3D i-Cockpit: Appeals to tech-savvy drivers by providing a futuristic, customisable, and engaging interface.
• GT trim’s advanced features: Provides a premium experience with a larger screen and enhanced driver aids for those who prioritise technology and comfort.

Why the Peugeot e-2008 Stands Apart

After spending time behind the wheel of various iterations of the Peugeot e-2008, the conclusion is that this is easily one of the best electric SUVs that you can buy right now. It manages to feel suitably utilitarian and practical, but also has a stylish and desirable design that sits well on an emotional level. Code says, This is a car for ‘safe, reliable economy with a bit of fun”. It’s a car that fulfils the necessities for the head of household and the desires of the wayward soul. It gets the basics right, it’s spacious and affordable and packed with impressive tech, but it delivers them in a way that feels unique and premium. It’s a multi-purpose pick that confidently handles the requirements of today’s driving.

But the big question, of course, is which one? If most of your driving is short hops around town and you have convenient access to home charging, the legacy 50 kWh battery model is still a capable and budget-friendly choice. But for most drivers, we advise splurging for the 54 kWh battery. There’s something magical about gaining an extra 40 miles or so hours of real-world range; it’s not just a number added to a spec sheet, but an incredible expansion in freedom and possibility. It has the effect of easing range anxiety and charging stop frequency, which helps make the car a more well-rounded, capable companion on the road for unplanned long drives.

As for the trim, the GT line really makes a difference on the e-2008, while all variants are decently kitted out. It transforms the entire experience with an extra layer of refinement and tech luxury that really makes this car special. From the enhanced infotainment system and driver aids measures to the elegant finishing touches inside, the GT turns a very good car into a great one. If your budget allows, the 54 kWh battery and GT trim is the best way to get the e-2008.

You’ll never be able to read enough reviews for yourself. There is nothing quite like the Peugeot e-2008, from its captivating i-Cockpit to the calm of its electric performance that is truly best experienced in person. If you think this cool and capable electric SUV might be your next car, the only real way to be sure is to get out and drive. We welcome you to come and drive it and see how practical and fun it really is.

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