We review South Africa’s Car of the Year: 2021 Peugeot 2008

The 2021 Peugeot 2008 impressed everyone, including consumers and automotive journalists. Thanks to its stylish, sharp, and bold exterior design, along with the updated, modern interior, the compact crossover managed to win the 2021 South African Car of the Year (COTY) award.

We put the spotlight on the features that helped the new Peugeot 2008 win this coveted motoring honour:

Developed at the Stellantis Vigo factory in Spain, the 2021 Peugeot 2008 employs the new-generation CMP (Common Modular Platform), capable of accommodating different powertrains, including the electrified ones.

The only engine choice is a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol available in two states of tune. It means the mill can generate either 74 kW and 205 Nm or 96 kW and 230 Nm. The engines mate to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. You can select from three trim levels, including the entry-level Active, mid-level Allure, and range-topping GT. 

If we compare the design of 2021 Peugeot 2008 to other crossovers in the segment, we find it chic and bold, boasting a prominent, dotted grille, carved bonnet with "2008" script on the nose, full-LED projector headlights with a noticeable 3-claw light pattern and "sabre-tooth" daytime running lights, giving the vehicle a significant curb appeal. What distinguishes the three models are the unique grille style for each.

If you have seen the 3008, you will find the interior pretty similar. The driver-focussed dash has Peugeot’s 3rd-generation i-Cockpit featuring a new 3D instrument cluster and a 7-inch (Active) or 10-inch (Allure and GT) touchscreen infotainment system. You can control navigation, in addition to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay from the system.

The voice control system allows you to change different settings with your voice. Other salient features encompass a wireless charging pad, up to 4 USB ports, a USB-C port and a 10-speaker Focal premium sound system with a 12-channel, 515W amplifier. 

The 2021 Peugeot 2008 is one of the safest crossovers on the road thanks to ISOFIX child seat anchorage points, ABS, EBD, brake assist, rear park distance control, cruise control, traction/stability control, hill assist control, safety headrests, and six airbags.

The active safety facilities comprise lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, park assist, automatic emergency braking, driver warning alert, and traffic-sign recognition.

If you are a style-conscious motorist seeking a crossover with some panache and zest, the 2021 Peugeot 2008 makes a strong case for itself. Thanks to the Grip Control modes, it offers superb handling and excellent control over sand, mud, and snow. The claimed 6.5L/100 KM fuel economy, competitive pricing, and now the Car of the Year award should attract new buyers to the brand.

If you have made up your mind, be ready to fork out at least R359,900 for the Active manual or R399,900 for the Active automatic. The Allure starts at R429,900, while the GT goes for R479,900. All models come with a 5-year/100,000 km warranty and a 3-year/60,000 km service plan.

Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off www.carmag.co.za