The Peugeot 2008 is a stylish supermini-based crossover that’s become one of the UK’s more popular small SUVs, offering a raised driving position, distinctive styling and, from its second generation onwards, a genuinely usable electric version. It competes with the Ford Puma, Renault Captur and its own mechanical cousin, the Vauxhall Mokka.
This guide covers what to check on a used 2008, its generations, common problems (including an industry-wide engine issue shared with several related models), running costs, typical used prices, and why the individual car’s history matters as much as the model’s own reputation.
Is The Peugeot 2008 A Good Used Car?
Yes, particularly the current Mk2 generation, which offers striking styling, a raised SUV driving position on a supermini footprint, and a genuinely competitive electric option in the e-2008. It’s a sensible choice for buyers wanting SUV styling without stepping up to a larger, thirstier vehicle.
The main caveat, shared with several related Peugeot, Citroen, DS and Vauxhall models, is the PureTech petrol engine’s wet timing belt design, covered in detail below, which is worth understanding before buying any car in this engine family.
Peugeot 2008 Generations And Model Years
Mk1 Generation (2013-2019)
A more conventional-looking small crossover, based on the previous-generation 208 platform, with a simpler interior than the current model. Generally the cheaper option on the used market and a sensible choice if you prioritise value over the latest styling and technology.
Mk2 Generation (2019 Onwards)
A complete redesign with much bolder SUV-style proportions, built on the same CMP platform as the current 208, and offered with petrol, diesel and fully electric (e-2008) powertrains. Shares the 208’s small “i-Cockpit” steering wheel and high-mounted digital dial cluster - try this driving position in person, since it doesn’t suit everyone equally.
Engine Options And Which To Choose
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PureTech 1.2 Petrol (3-cylinder): The core petrol engine, shared with the 208 and several related Stellantis-group models. This engine uses a timing belt that runs immersed in engine oil (“wet belt”) rather than a conventional dry belt or chain, which has developed an industry-wide reputation for premature degradation if the correct, shorter service interval isn’t followed - contaminated oil from a degrading belt can lead to expensive engine damage. Always ask for full, documented proof of servicing at the correct interval.
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BlueHDi 1.5 Diesel: A capable, efficient diesel for higher-mileage driving, with the usual modern-diesel considerations around EGR, DPF and AdBlue system health on cars used mainly for short journeys.
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e-2008 (Electric): A genuinely well-reviewed electric small SUV sharing its powertrain with the e-208, with real-world range that’s usable for most daily driving, though it varies with battery age, weather and driving style - always check the specific car’s battery health rather than relying on the official WLTP figure alone.
What To Check When Buying A Used Peugeot 2008
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Full service history specifically showing the correct wet-belt service interval was followed on PureTech petrol models
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Any oil-related warning lights or history of oil contamination on PureTech engines
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DPF, EGR and AdBlue system function on BlueHDi diesel models
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Battery state of health and charging history on e-2008 models
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How comfortable the “i-Cockpit” driving position and dial visibility are for you personally
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Full service history with stamps at the correct intervals
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MOT history for recurring advisories
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Mileage progression against the car’s age
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Bodywork and alloy wheels for kerb and parking damage
Common Problems With The Peugeot 2008
PureTech Wet-Belt Timing Belt Reliability
As with the 208 and other related models, the PureTech 1.2 petrol engine’s wet timing belt design has a documented reputation for premature wear, especially if the specific, shorter service interval for this design isn’t followed precisely. This is an industry-wide issue affecting multiple manufacturers using similar wet-belt designs, and it’s essential to confirm a PureTech-engined 2008 has a full, documented service history at the correct intervals before buying.
The small, low-mounted steering wheel and high dial cluster, shared with the 208, divide opinion - some drivers find it doesn’t suit their preferred seating position, partially obscuring the digital dials. Always test this in person during a viewing.
Emissions System Issues On Diesels
Like most modern diesels, BlueHDi models’ EGR, DPF and AdBlue systems are prone to problems on cars used mainly for short, low-speed journeys. Ask about the type of driving the car has done and check for related warning lights.
Running Costs And Insurance
The 2008 is generally reasonable to run for a small SUV. Petrol PureTech models suit shorter journeys and lower mileage, provided the wet-belt service schedule has been followed; BlueHDi diesels suit higher-mileage motorway driving; the e-2008 offers low running costs on electricity where home or workplace charging is available. Insurance groups are generally moderate depending on trim and engine, and road tax varies by CO2 emissions, registration date, and (for the e-2008) current EV tax rules, so always check the specific car’s tax band.
How Much Should You Pay For A Used Peugeot 2008?
Prices vary by age, mileage, trim, engine and condition, but as a rough guide: higher-mileage Mk1 2008s can be found from a modest budget, rising through the mid-price range for a well-kept Mk2 petrol or diesel with full service history. e-2008 electric models command a noticeably higher price given battery technology and lower running costs. Always compare several current listings for the exact spec, battery health (for the e-2008) and mileage you want, rather than relying on a single reference price.
The 2008 competes with the Ford Puma, Renault Captur and its mechanical cousin, the Vauxhall Mokka, which shares much of its underlying engineering and electric option following the Peugeot/Vauxhall merger. The Puma is generally regarded as the sharper car to drive, while the Captur counters with a more spacious, versatile interior. The 2008’s key advantages are its distinctive styling and the e-2008’s genuine usability as an electric option in this class.
Checks To Run Before Buying A Used Peugeot 2008
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MOT history for recurring advisories, which can flag ongoing mechanical issues
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Mileage records for consistency with the car’s age
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Outstanding finance, which transfers risk to you as the buyer
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Write-off or stolen markers on the vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Peugeot 2008 Reliable?
Generally reasonable for the class, though the PureTech petrol engine’s wet timing belt design has a documented reputation for premature wear if not serviced at the correct, shorter interval - this affects several related manufacturers’ engines, not just Peugeot’s, but it’s essential to check the service history carefully.
Is The Peugeot 2008 PureTech Engine Reliable?
The engine itself is efficient and well regarded for performance, but its wet timing belt design is a genuine, widely-reported concern if the correct service schedule hasn’t been followed - always ask for documented proof of the belt/service history before buying.
Is The Peugeot e-2008 Any Good?
Yes, it’s one of the more usable and well-reviewed electric small SUVs on the used market, sharing its powertrain with the well-regarded e-208, though as with any used EV, always check the battery’s state of health rather than relying on the official range figure alone.
Should I Check A Used 2008’s History Before Buying?
Yes. A full vehicle history check can reveal mileage inconsistencies, outstanding finance and write-off or stolen markers, all of which matter as much for a 2008 as any other used car.
The Peugeot 2008 is a stylish small SUV with a genuinely strong electric option in the e-2008, but the PureTech petrol engine’s wet timing belt design makes service history essential research before buying, regardless of which specific car you’re considering. As with any used car, the specific example’s history matters more than the model’s general reputation, so always check MOT records, mileage and finance status before you commit to buying.