When the urban SUV wave swept across global markets, the Peugeot 2008 emerged as one of its most prominent representatives. Since its debut in 2013, this B-segment crossover has captured consumer attention with its stylish design and continuously evolving powertrain technology. More than just a vehicle, it represents a lifestyle choice - a symbol of freedom and exploration.

First Generation Peugeot 2008: Reliability First, With Room for Improvement

The first-generation Peugeot 2008 marked the French automaker's strategic response to growing crossover demand. In its powertrain selection, Peugeot opted for proven, market-tested engine technologies - a conservative approach that prioritized reliability over innovation.

These engines demonstrated impressive durability, capable of covering 250,000 to 350,000 kilometers with proper maintenance. However, some limitations emerged, particularly with smaller gasoline units. The 1.2L PureTech three-cylinder engines occasionally experienced timing chain stretching after 150,000-200,000 km, while three-cylinder configurations sometimes required significant repairs between 180,000-220,000 km.

Among the standout performers was the 1.6L BlueHDi diesel (120 HP), which achieved an optimal balance between reliability, fuel efficiency, and power output. Peugeot's commitment to proven technologies ensured practical daily usability, though some early models faced particulate filter clogging issues in urban driving conditions.

Gasoline Engines: The PureTech Family's Growing Pains

The first-generation 2008's gasoline lineup primarily featured PureTech three-cylinder engines, available in three power outputs: 82 HP, 110 HP, and 130 HP. While offering respectable performance, these engines exhibited typical three-cylinder challenges including premature timing chain stretching (sometimes occurring before 80,000 km), increased oil consumption, and camshaft adjustment mechanism failures.

The range-topping 1.6L THP (165 HP), exclusive to GTi variants, delivered stronger performance but suffered from lower reliability due to its complex architecture. Meanwhile, the naturally aspirated 1.2L VTi (82 HP) stood out for its exceptional durability despite modest power output.

Diesel Engines: BlueHDi's Dependable Performance

The first-generation 2008's diesel options centered on the BlueHDi series, offering multiple power configurations. The 1.6L BlueHDi came in 75 HP, 100 HP, and 120 HP variants, with the latter proving most reliable - particularly post-2014 models equipped with SCR catalytic converters and particulate filters as standard.

These Euro 6-compliant engines delivered an impressive balance of performance, efficiency, and reliability. While early models occasionally experienced particulate filter clogging in city driving, the BlueHDi series overall represented the first-generation's most dependable powertrain option.

Second Generation Peugeot 2008: Electrification and Enhanced Reliability

The second-generation 2008 marked a technological leap forward, introducing the brand's first fully electric variant alongside significantly improved combustion engines. This generation demonstrated Peugeot's commitment to both electrification and refined internal combustion technology.

The pure electric e-2008 features a 136 HP electric motor, representing Peugeot's electrification strategy. Meanwhile, traditional engines received comprehensive upgrades, with improved PureTech units now capable of 200,000-300,000 km with proper maintenance. Only early 1.2L PureTech versions retained some timing chain vulnerabilities.

Gasoline Engines: Refined PureTech Performance

The second-generation's gasoline lineup continues with PureTech engines in 75 HP, 100 HP, and 130 HP configurations. Significant improvements include reinforced timing chains and upgraded oil pumps, substantially enhancing reliability.

The 130 HP 1.2L PureTech emerges as the standout gasoline option, with only occasional valve carbon buildup at high mileage. All gasoline engines now feature start-stop technology and meet stringent Euro 6d emissions standards, paired with either 5/6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmissions.

Diesel Engines: The Efficient 1.5L BlueHDi

Replacing the previous 1.6L units, the second-generation 2008 adopts more advanced 1.5L BlueHDi diesels in 100 HP and 130 HP variants. These modern engines feature optimized common rail injection (2000 bar pressure) and SCR systems.

The 130 HP version proves particularly impressive, delivering test-cycle fuel consumption of just 4.2-4.6L/100km while maintaining excellent reliability. These engines also show improved resistance to particulate filter clogging, making them better suited for urban driving than their predecessors.

Electric Drive: The e-2008 Experience

The e-2008's 136 HP electric motor produces 260 Nm of torque, powered by a 50 kWh battery providing 320 km WLTP-rated range. With 0-100 km/h acceleration in 8.5 seconds and 100 kW fast charging capability (10-80% in ~30 minutes), it represents the most innovative powertrain in the 2008 lineup.

Conclusion: The Reliability Evolution

Peugeot 2008's engine development clearly illustrates the automotive industry's transition from traditional powertrains to electrified solutions. While first-generation models faced some PureTech teething issues, the second generation delivers more reliable combustion engines alongside a compelling electric alternative.

• Best Gasoline Engine: Second-gen 1.2L PureTech (130 HP) combines performance, reliability, and moderate complexity
• Best Diesel Engine: Second-gen 1.5L BlueHDi (130 HP) offers the optimal reliability/efficiency balance
• Electric Future: e-2008 (136 HP) with 320 km range represents Peugeot's electrification commitment

Through two generations, the Peugeot 2008 has evolved from a conventional crossover to a technologically advanced vehicle offering both refined internal combustion engines and zero-emission electric mobility - reflecting the broader transformation occurring across the automotive industry.