New Peugeot 2008 SUV even more attractive
Victor Mufamadi Coghsta Chief of Staff test drives the all new 2008 SUV
POLOKWANE – When Peugeot launched its 2008 compact crossover in 2013, it recognised the growing demand for smaller, more versatile vehicles.
Peugeot recently unveiled some new updates which places a stronger emphasis on the 2008 SUV’s all-terrain DNA. This new 2008 SUV model range was recently launched to the public in March.
The refreshed 2008 SUV is a real head turner, with a series of visual additions that will make motorists sit up and take notice.
Review got some time with the new 2008 SUV last Friday to explore all the new enhancements. The 2008 SUV, the range topper GT Line 1.2 PureTech Auomatic, was provided courtesy of MGM Peugeot Polokwane situated in 104 Landdros Maré Street.
Joining Review and MGM Motors for the 2008 SUV impression drive, is Victor Mufamadi who is the Chief of Staff at the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs.
The basic profile, with its stepped roofline, pronounced haunches and raked windscreen remains instantly recognisable, but there have been significant changes to the front styling and exterior detailing.
The visual appeal of the 2008 SUV impresses Mufamadi, saying the vehicle does look attractive to him, but although he thinks the 2008 SUV would appeal more to women.
The thick-rimmed, small-diameter steering wheel houses key controls for the audio system, hands-free phoning, speed limiter and cruise control systems.
“I like the leather combined with cloth for the seats. The leather steering wheel is nice and small and contributes to the sporty theme inside the cabin. I like the multi-function buttons on the steering wheel.
“The bucket seats are really great and provides for a comfortable seating position,” says Mufamadi.
Powering the 2008 SUV GT Line is Peugeot’s advanced PureTech three-cylinder turbo petrol engine and connected to six-speed auto gearbox.
Driving around the suburbs of Polokwane, the soft growl from the three-cylinder engine is noted by Mufamadi.
“I was actually surprised to have learn that the 2008 SUV GT Line is driven by a three-cylinder engine. It impressed me with how quickly it accelerates . What I also like is the engine note coming from the three cylinders, and adds to the sporty theme of the GT Line model,’ says Mufamadi.
The PureTech 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder engine delivers 81kW of maximum output at 5 500rpm and 205Nm of maximum torque from 1 500rpm.
The spacious interior is complimented by a generous 410 litre luggage compartment, which can be extended to 1 400 litres by folding the split rear bench seat flat. A low loading sill and wide-opening tailgate ensure convenient access to the boot, which houses a full-sized spare wheel.
Mufamadi along with the friendly, informative MGM Peugeot Polokwane Sales Executive, Eugene Klem jumped during the photo session in the loading bay of the 2008 SUV to indicate how easy it is to load goods as well to show how spacious the cargo area really is.
However, the centrepiece of the new 2008 SUV’s dashboard is undoubtedly the large, centrally located colour touch-screen display, which is standard across the range. The seven-inch touch screen (18 cm) is located directly above the centre stack, and offers intuitive access to the Peugeot’s infotainment system.
“What impressed me of the touchscreen is that is placed within line of sight, meaning I don’t have to take my eyes of the road when driving. It is not a distracting,” says Mufamadi.
The infotainment system includes integrated support for Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink, which allow selected smartphone features to be displayed on the touchscreen display.
The touchscreen also acts as the interface for vehicle set-up and system set-up menus, and displays the imaging from the reverse parking camera
The GT Line model also benefits from Peugeot’s innovative Grip Control system, which adapts the drivetrain to a variety of conditions via a rotary controller in the centre console.
In conclusion Mufamadi says this car will certainly appeal to women who need a spacious vehicle when transporting children to school and back.
He says overall, he would even recommend the 2008 SUV for his wife, saying she would like the 2008 SUV’s spaciousness and styling.
Recommended retail pricing is as follows:
2008 SUV Active 1.6 HDI Manual – R274 900.
2008 SUV Allure 1.6 HDi Manual – R299 900.
2008 SUV Allure 1.2 PureTech Automatic – R324 900.
2008 SUV GT Line 1.2 PureTech Automatic – R349 900.
The price includes a three-year or 100 000 km warranty, a three-year or 45 000 km service plan, a three-year paint warranty, roadside assistance, mobility and a 12-year anti-perforation warranty. Services are scheduled at 15 000 km intervals.
