The Peugeot 2008 1.2 e-VTi (82 hp) Automatic was a subcompact crossover SUV produced by the French manufacturer Peugeot between 2013 and 2015. It represented an entry-level offering within the first generation (2008 I) of the 2008 model, positioned below the more powerful 1.6 THP petrol and 1.6 HDi diesel variants. The 2008 was Peugeot’s initial foray into the rapidly expanding B-segment crossover market, aiming to attract buyers seeking a stylish, practical, and economical vehicle. This particular variant was primarily sold in European markets, where smaller displacement engines and automatic transmissions were gaining popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 2008 |
| Generation | 2008 I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 e-VTi (82 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 111.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 2750 rpm (87.03 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HMZ EB2F |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt | 2.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1055 kg (2325.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1593 kg (3511.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 538 kg (1186.09 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1172 l (41.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4159 mm (163.74 in.) |
| Width | 1739 mm (68.46 in.) |
| Height | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2537 mm (99.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1477 mm (58.15 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 V |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 2008 1.2 e-VTi utilized Peugeot’s EB2F engine family, a 1.2-liter, naturally aspirated, three-cylinder petrol engine. The ‘e-VTi’ designation indicates the use of Peugeot’s Variable Valve Timing and Injection technology. The engine, coded HMZ, featured multi-point fuel injection and a relatively high compression ratio for improved efficiency. Its 82 horsepower output at 5750 rpm and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque at 2750 rpm were modest, but sufficient for urban and suburban driving. The engine’s compact size and lightweight construction contributed to the 2008’s overall efficiency. Paired with this engine was a five-speed automatic transmission, offering a more convenient driving experience than the standard manual gearbox, though at the expense of some fuel economy and performance. This automatic transmission was a conventional torque converter type, prioritizing smoothness over outright speed.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 e-VTi Automatic 2008 offered a comfortable, if unhurried, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 15.9 seconds, making it one of the slower variants in the 2008 lineup. The automatic transmission, while smooth, exhibited noticeable delays in downshifting, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than performance. Compared to the 1.6 THP petrol or 1.6 HDi diesel models, the 1.2 e-VTi felt noticeably underpowered, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. However, its light steering and compact dimensions made it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. The engine was relatively refined for a three-cylinder unit, with minimal vibration noticeable inside the cabin.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 e-VTi Automatic typically came with a base level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level trim. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and cruise control. Higher trim levels, available with the more powerful engines, offered more luxurious features such as leather upholstery, panoramic sunroofs, and advanced safety systems.
Chassis & Braking
The 2008 1.2 e-VTi utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were also ventilated discs, a relatively uncommon feature for a vehicle in this class. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The relatively light weight of the 1.2 e-VTi engine contributed to a more balanced chassis feel compared to the heavier diesel variants. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 2008 1.2 e-VTi Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical city car. However, its lack of outright performance was often noted. Compared to the 1.6 THP petrol, the 1.2 e-VTi offered significantly lower fuel economy but also a lower purchase price. The 1.6 HDi diesel provided superior fuel economy and torque but came with a higher initial cost and potential maintenance concerns associated with diesel particulate filters. The 1.2 e-VTi appealed to buyers prioritizing affordability and ease of use over performance.
Legacy
The 1.2 e-VTi engine, in various iterations, proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although some owners have reported issues with the timing chain. The automatic transmission, while generally dependable, requires regular fluid changes to maintain optimal performance. In the used car market, the 2008 1.2 e-VTi Automatic represents an affordable entry point into the crossover segment. Its low running costs and compact size make it a suitable choice for urban commuters and first-time car buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limited performance and consider a pre-purchase inspection to assess the condition of the timing chain and transmission.
