Peugeot 2008 facelift due late February

Peugeot's updated 2008 will arrive in Australia from late February, the importer and distributor, Sime Darby, has revealed today.

While the facelifted styling details are a pointer to Peugeot's future design, the big news for the revised 2008 resides out of sight – in the engine bay.

All models sold in Australia will be powered exclusively by the 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder already available in the 208 and 308 ranges. Power is rated at 81kW and torque peaks at 205Nm. The sole transmission to be offered will be the six-speed automatic jointly developed by Aisin and Peugeot.

A new level of trim, 'GT-Line', replaces the previous Outdoor variant, and the revised 2008 gains new comfort and convenience features, with a new colour – Ultimate Red – joining the six other colours carried over.

All models now come with a reversing camera, and Apple CarPlay is a new feature, operable through the 2008's seven-inch infotainment touch screen. For Allure and GT-Line models satellite navigation, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and Grip Control are now standard. Grip Control enhances grip in low-traction conditions.

"The 2008 SUV was always highly regarded for its smart packaging and stylish looks; now with new technology, new line-up and an all-new powertrain, the 2008 becomes the complete package for Australian customers," says Kai Bruesewitz, General Manager of Peugeot Australia.

"We have already proven with our 208 and 308 model lines that Peugeot's award winning PureTech, turbo-petrol 1.2-litre engines can compete with larger capacity drivetrains of other players in the market and there is no reason this segment shouldn't benefit from Peugeot's advanced drivetrain.

"We are very excited about the introduction of the new-look 2008 range as it signals a significant year for the Peugeot SUV stable with the all-new 3008 and 5008 following hot on the 2008's heels."

Standard features for the 2008 Active will include seven-inch infotainment touch screen, trip computer, Bluetooth connectivity, cloth trim, 16-inch alloy wheels, space-saver spare wheel, air conditioning, reversing camera, reverse parking sensors, fold-in electric mirrors, cruise control, leather-bound multi-function steering wheel and chilled centre console.

In addition, the 2008 Allure comes with Park Assist, satellite navigation, Active City Brake (AEB), 17-inch alloys, cornering lights, rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlights, Grip Control, an electrochromatic rear-view mirror, rear privacy glass, premium upholstery and dual-zone climate control.

At the top of the range, the 2008 GT-Line builds on the 2008 Allure's specification with a leather-bound steering wheel, red highlights throughout the interior, alloy door sill plates, alloy sports pedals, black accents for exterior styling details and a chrome exhaust.