The Peugeot 2008 is the sensible sister to Citroën's C4 Cactus tearaway surfer dude. The two cars share a close mechanical relationship, but while the Cactus is down the beach waxing its boards, the 2008 has stayed diligently at home, made sure its school bag is ready for the morning and is now turning off the telly so that it can study more efficiently.
Basically, the Peugeot is a lot more practical. It’s a bigger, chunkier car than the Cactus, so rear legroom and especially boot volume are very definitely better than those of the C4. The 2008 also has the brighter, airier cabin, helped by the tiny steering wheel, tall instruments layout inherited from the also-related 208 hatch.
Core engines are once again the 1.2 PureTech petrol and 1.6 HDI diesel and both are sufficiently good to make either a decent choice, although the petrol is far better value. Peugeot has introduced a sportier-looking GT-Line model which makes the 2008 appear more athletic but which doesn’t confer any benefits on handling, which remains fine, if unexceptional.
Price range: €19,400 to €27,280
C02 emissions: 95 to 114g/km
Which one? 1.2 PureTech GT-Line
PCP from €POA