Test drive Peugeot 2008: when "less" is "more" - part 7

 The large 10-inch display (it's an option even on the GT Line) looks cool. However, in terms of functions it is identical to the 7-inch one, at the same time it “squeezes” the buttons for selecting sections (“climate”, audio, telephone) from its sidewalls to the bottom row - and there may be false presses when you touch the keys. But the wide range of settings and a clear picture of the rear-view camera with imitation of a circular view is a plus. The optional leather seat upholstery adds a back massage by default, but only in the lumbar region. The panoramic sunroof is gorgeous by the standards of the class: a huge area (ends right above the heads of the rear passengers), the ability to open-slide. It is a pity that the sun curtain is devoid of an electric drive: the driver or front passenger will bend and get the curtain, oh, how difficult it is. The Full LED headlamps on the GT Line are beautiful to look at and offer automatic low / high beam switching. But globally, they are not far from the Eco LED headlights in the Allure version - in two cases we have LED high and low beam. Do you feel, right? The more sophisticated and high-tech equipment - the more innuendo in Peugeot 2008: it seems to have done well, but not brought to the ideal.

 Now we analyze competitors. There are many. In this case, we can divide the market positioning of Peugeot 2008 depending on the price of the car - conditionally 550-700 thousand UAH. and higher. If you choose a compact crossover for 550-700 thousand UAH, then in the list of Peugeot 2008 rivals you can write related models Citroen C3 Aircross and Opel Crossland X: against their background, the "lion" is perceived as a more modern model and, in my opinion, has better habits on the road - by a combination of comfort, handling, motor. An interesting and worthwhile alternative is the SEAT Arona model, but it is let down by the brand's weak popularity and lack of choice of engines. Also from the recent I remember the Renault Duster Ultramarine crossover: simple in design and inferior to the feeling of "modernity", but it offers a comfortable suspension and an economical diesel engine for a minimum of money. Plus, we are expecting a new Nissan Juke soon: the car as a whole turned out to be successful, but the price level is not yet clear. Finally, let's note a couple more "Japanese" - Mazda CX-3 and Suzuki Vitara. Both rivals can offer all-wheel drive (which 2008 lacks), as well as good equipment in fixed trim levels (especially the Vitara). But the Peugeot 2008 model is ahead in terms of interior space (comparable to Vitara and better than CX-3), suspension comfort, the presence of bright design solutions (comparable to CX-3 and better than Vitara). In a word: the Peugeot 2008 crossover has every chance of becoming one of the best cars in its segment - and in this case it will be a hit of sales.

 However, at a price of 700 thousand UAH. and higher against Peugeot 2008 completely different cars begin to compete. Pinch your fingers: Mazda CX-30, Toyota C-HR, Volkswagen T-Roc, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Opel Grandland X, Nissan Qashqai. All of these cars are at least comparable to Peugeot 2008 in terms of interior space or even better: for example, you can find adjustable rear seats and heated second row. All of these cars are comparable to Peugeot 2008 in terms of equipment or even better: for example, you can find a head-up display and an all-round view with four cameras. You can also find economical diesel or hybrid engines with 130-150 hp. or even higher, front or all wheel drive. Finally, if we talk about Peugeot 2008, similar to the test one, then with a price tag of 800-850 thousand UAH. you can already look towards the Peugeot 3008. Which is a car of a completely different level: it drives more collected, but still quite comfortable, it has a more spacious interior and a larger trunk, a powerful 2-liter diesel engine is available.