As manufacturers have scurried to release their own supermini-based crossovers, a similar thing has been happening with pseudo sports trim levels. Trims aimed at those who want to look sporty but avoid gas-guzzling bills.

Peugeot’s interpretation of this is its new GT-Line trim, something that was introduced to the 2008 as part of the model’s mid-life facelift earlier this year.

And said facelift has been a welcome change for the 2008 crossover. It didn’t exactly look outdated, but since its introduction in 2013, its design has been noticeably lacking a bit of menace. Not anymore though, thanks to a more vertical grille, more aggressive wheel arches and new rear taillights.

We got to drive the recently-refreshed 2008 PureTech 130 in its GT-Line guise. Read on to find out what we thought.

 

Performance

After driving the PureTech 110 in the 208 supermini – and loving it - it was clear that a PureTech 130 in the bulkier 2008 was going to work. And it does.

This small three-cylinder turbocharged unit produces 128bhp and can reach 62mph from a standing start in just 9.3 seconds, pretty good by any three-cylinder standards. You do get noticeable turbo lag low down the revs, but once you power through that there is a healthy 230Nm of torque available at 1,750rpm.

The six-speed manual it comes mated to delivers smooth changes too, just don’t expect to feel completely engaged when flicking through them at speed on a country road.

Just like in the 208, this definitely feels the way to go if you are after a petrol. Of course, the bestselling 1.6-litre diesel gives you that trademark diesel pull, but it has nowhere near the same character as the PureTech 130.

Ride and Handling

Drive it through the city or on the school run and the 2008 does the job, with sharp steering, a cushy suspension and slightly jacked-up seating position.

The 2008 drives a lot like other crossovers – conservative. That is to say it is more comparable to the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur as opposed to the Mazda CX-3 and Skoda Yeti. Drive it through the city or on the school run and the 2008 does the job, with sharp steering, a cushy suspension and slightly jacked-up seating position. But venture anywhere where you intend to have fun in it – winding country lanes or an open car park – and you will be left a little disappointed. The only difference with the 2008 really is that it comes with Grip Control function, which shifts traction to either of the wheels when needed. Grip Control has a series of pre-set modes, including Snow and Mud – which help you get out of sticky situations. Great for light camping trips. The 2008 plays it safe in the dynamics department, which is fair enough as most buyers will be after comfort and not crazy.

Interior and Equipment

The Peugeot 2008 is built on the same chassis as the 208 supermini.

The GT-Line effect is instantly recognisable from the outside with a black radiator grille, door mirrors and 17-inch alloys. The interior is all about aesthetic enhancements too. GT-Line brings black and red door trims, floor mats, half-leather seats, gearknob, steering wheel, handbrake and even seat belts. You also get some aluminium door sills and pedals, plus a lovely panoramic glass roof. Although these are just glossy, stylish add-ons, it does give the interior a more up-market feel. The only additional tech added with the GT-Line model is a sat-nav system and reversing camera – both of which are incredibly useful and a must for flashy SUVs of all sizes nowadays. These sit on top of the generous standard kit, which includes air-con, Bluetooth, DAB radio and LED daytime running lights. When it comes to practicality, the 2008 is a bit of a mixed bag. The cup holders up-front are awkward – just about big enough to fit a skinny can of Red Bull – although the central cubby is deep enough to accommodate a large can stood up. The rear seats offer enough leg room for most, supermini size, but headroom is eaten up by the panoramic roof. A middle passenger will struggle for foot well room too. However, the boot is mightily impressive. There’s a low loading lip, up to 410 litres (up from 350 litres thanks to the facelift) of storage space with the seats up and up to 1,400 litres with the seats down. The 60:40 folding rear seats also fold completely flat for added convenience.

Cost

Even if you were to ignore the GT-Line model, the PureTech 130 is still going to cost you £18,500 in the penultimate Allure trim.

The PureTech 130 GT-Line trim is going to cost you a fair chunk more than an entry-level 2008. At £19,500, you will be paying around £5,500 more than a basic model. Even if you were to ignore the GT-Line model, the PureTech 130 is still going to cost you £18,500 in the penultimate Allure trim. CO2 and MPG figures are decent however, as it emits 110g/km and claims an average return of 58.9mpg. Realistically 45-50mpg is what you’ll get.

Our Verdict

Although the Peugeot 2008 PureTech 130 GT-Line certainly accomplishes what it sets out to do – offer a sportier-look and some peppy performance – it is let down slightly by its high list price and ability to set itself apart from rivals. The crossover market is more competitive than ever – and simply existing will only take you so far. The 2008 is a great little car, but there will always be the feeling you are missing out on something a bit juicier if you go for one.