New Peugeot 2008 2021 confirmed for Australia: Electric small SUV on the cards to take on Hyundai Kona Electric

Peugeot has confirmed it will introduce its all-new 2008 small SUV to Australian showrooms before the end of 2020, with a plug-in electric version on the brand’s wishlist.

Overseas, the 2008 is available with petrol, diesel and plug-in electric powertrains, but the previous Australian model was exclusively petrol powered.

As such, the new version is expected to be offered in Australia with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine that is available in three states of tune in international markets – 75kW, 97kW and 116kW.

Given Australia’s appetite for more potent engines, the two more powerful engine tunes are expected in local showrooms, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Read More About Peugeot 2008

Peugeot will release entire range of electric vehicles in Australia 'when the time is right'

However, the e-2008 with a 100kW electric motor and 50kWh lithium-ion battery that enables a circa-310km of emissions free-driving is also on the table.

Speaking to CarsGuide, Peugeot Australia PR and product manager Daniel Khan said the all-electric version is under evaluation, but the first step would be in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).

“We are considering e-2008, but our first step towards electrification is PHEV for some of our models, which makes sense for the Australian market,” he said.

“We’re moving towards PHEV for our range, and that’s a global move as well.”

The only PHEV models in Peugeot’s portfolio are the 3008 mid-size SUV and 508 sedan/wagon, though neither have been confirmed for Australia.

As for the incoming 2008, expect to see equipment such as advanced driver safety systems (autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control), as well as digital instrumentation, a 10.0-inch multimedia screen and premium interior feature across the range.

Read More About Peugeot 2008

Peugeot wants to pull a Mazda and move its brand upmarket

Mr Khan confirmed the new 2008 will launch before 2021.

“We know it will be this year, so before December 31,” he said.

“I’m afraid I haven’t locked down exact dates because of production and things like that … but we’re guaranteed it will be released this year.

“We’re working that (specification and pricing) out, what the local offering will be, our local spec, we really don’t know yet.

“That information will be available in about two-three months.”

Peugeot’s existing 2008 is currently on runout, with the Australian website listing only the model year 2018 Allure grade that is priced from $29,990 before on-road costs.