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Peugeot has released full details of its 2008 crossover, which was unveiled at the Geneva motor show. Highlights include a lowest kerbweight of 1045kg, a range of 'Connected App' services and CO2 emissions as low as 98g/km.

Set to rival cars like the Nissan Juke and Mini Countryman, the 2008 is designed for urban dwellers who also like to explore outside the city limits. It is ostensibly based on the 208 supermini, but also draws on the success of the larger 3008, and incorporates that car's Grip Control off-road system.

At 4.16m long and 1.74m wide, the 2008 is around 20cm longer and 5cm wider than the 208 on which it's based. This creates more space for five passengers inside, and a boot capacity of 360 litres (1194 litres with the rear seats folded). For the driver, the small steering wheel of the 208 is carried over, intended to enhance a sense of agility. A taller centre console is fitted and the materials used inside are claimed to be of a higher quality.

A head-up display and seven-inch touchscreen are also standard inside the 2008. The latter gives access to Peugeot Connect Apps, which uses 3G to give live information such as weather conditions, traffic and local attractions at any time. The 2008 will be launched with 11 apps and Peugeot will eventually introduce an app store with additional content such as social media, email and Wikipedia.

Many external styling cues from other models in the Peugeot range feature on the 2008. The 'claws' in the tail lights, first seen in the 508, make an appearance whilst the new Peugeot grille is also prominent. The headlights are said to resemble cats' eyes. Gilles Vidal, Peugeot's Director of Style, said that he wanted the 2008 to be more refined and elegant than an SUV.

At launch, the 2008 will be available with two petrol and three diesel engine choices, all available with a stop-start system. The petrol range comprises a 1.2-litre VTi with 81bhp and a 118bhp 1.6-litre version.

The diesels range in output from 67bhp to 113bhp. The petrol range will be bolstered in the near future with a  turbocharged three-cylinder powerplant. Offering either 109 or 128bhp, Peugeot claims the engine is 12kg lighter than a four-cylinder equivalent.

All 2008s will come with six airbags, electronic brake force distribution, electronic brake assist, anti-skid regulation and traction control. It will be available to order in Peugeot dealers from June, with deliveries expected to begin later in the summer.

Laurent Blanchet, Peugeot's range Director, hopes that the 2008 will play a big part in helping the brand deal with the declining European market.

Thanks to: Autocar