Out in the cold of Northern Sweden, our spy photographers caught a mysterious prototype testing on an ice track with very heavy camouflage. A closer look reveals that the SUV is most likely a Peugeot 2008 in disguise, with the latest rumors suggesting it is destined for South America.
The cardboard-style camouflage with large black panels taped on the bodywork hide most of the details of the SUV, but its identity is revealed by the alloy wheels, the LED headlights, the lower bumper intake, the door handles, and the position of the high-mounted taillights. All those features point out to the current Peugeot 2008, even though the pattern on the grille looks a bit different.
Read: Next-Gen Peugeot 3008 Makes Its Spy Debut With Coupe-SUV Production Body
The second-gen Peugeot 2008 was originally introduced in 2019, which means that it is already a nice time for a mid-lifecycle update. The facelifted model could benefit from Peugeot’s new logo, fresh styling cues, upgraded technology inside the cabin, and the new mild-hybrid turbocharged 1.2-liter PureTech engine to be offered as an alternative to the fully electric E-2008 variant.
While we are indeed waiting for a facelifted Peugeot 2008, our spy photographers suggest that this prototype is a “new generation” of the B-SUV for South American markets, that could be produced in the El Palomar plant in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This version of the Peugeot 2008 would still be based on the CMP architecture and have lots in common with its European counterpart. However, it will reportedly adapt to the specific needs of South America meaning it will get cheaper materials and different powertrain options. The latter could be sourced from Fiat, since both companies are under the Stellantis umbrella.
We will keep an eye out for more sightings of Peugeot 2008 prototypes in the near future, in order to see if the French automaker is indeed testing the facelifted model or its cheaper cousin from (and for) South America.
