The 2008's identity crisis is partly solved, but as this is a mild update rather than ground-up rebuild, it was never going to be the CX-3 killer product planners dream about. With the new engine and transmission, though, the range is more appealing and easier to make sense of. It retains what made the car so original at launch, with the polarising i-Cockpit, clever-on-a-budget interior detailing and, as it turns out, it's a tough customer loved by rural folk. All of this won't rocket the Frenchie to market leadership, but it puts it in the mix where it was previously too confusing an idea for many buyers.
Pros New engine and trans combo Interior still cool CarPlay across the range
Cons Tight rear seats Grumbly engine at low revs Some cheap plastics
Previously overlooked small SUV gets a dose of credible performance from its new drivetrain.One of the legacy products from PSA (Peugeot and Citroen), the 2008 has been hamstrung since its local launch in 2013 by a poor selection of drivetrains. That is now resolved with the introduction of a facelifted model powered by the sparkling 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission. A reversing camera and new connectivity technology further enhance the 2008 package, all for no more than $1000 extra at entry level. In the 2008 the new engine is quieter still than it was in the light hatch. The engine rarely made its presence felt in the SUV unless it was under load, accelerating up hill, for instance – when its distinctive three-cylinder warble could be clearly heard.
The new-look 2017 Peugeot 2008 has arrived,with the more muscled looking mini SUV axing its diesel engine offering and adding new safety and technology equipment. The new model range is a petrol only affair, with the brand’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission aimed at appealing squarely at the majority of front-wheel-drive SUV buyers. Styling wise, the revised 2008 sees the adoption of the brand’s family look, with a more pronounced grille, more angular bumper and revised headlights and tail-lights. The GT-Line model stands out from the other models with extra body cladding, black exterior highlights and more.
Available on the mid- and upper-level EX and SX Telluride trims, the Nightfall Edition package gives the SUV altogether darker vibe in keeping with the industry's various blacked-out "night edition" models. The Telluride's roof rails, skid plates, front bumper air ducts, and logos have all been painted black. A black-painted grille features an eye-catching pattern unique to the Nightfall Edition, and Kia tops it all off with unique 20-inch black wheels and LED headlamps and fog lamps with black inner bezels. Even though every Nightfall Edition wears the darkened exterior trim, customers can order it with paint in shades of white, silver, gray, dark red, or dark green.
The 2021 Kia Telluride earns our Best Car To Buy nod with its excellent features, warranty, space, and style.
Pros Spacious, airy interior Chic looks Standard safety gear Comfortable
Cons So-so mpg Turbo rivals are quicker May be too big for some
Pros Attractive styling Cavernous interior Comfort in all three rows Plenty of power Quiet ride Solid value
Cons Head-up display disappears with polarized sunglasses No automatic parking feature No power third-row seats Unimpressive audio systems No rear entertainment option Over-aggressive lane keep assist
