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Quick answer: our top pick is AAWireless Two+ (adapter · wireless CarPlay and Android Auto).
Which CarPlay head unit for a Peugeot 208 or 2008?
The choice depends on whether your car already has the factory Mirror Screen feature. If it does not, a dedicated head unit with a large screen designed for the 208 and 2008 dashboard or an external portable display will work best. If you have Mirror Screen and use an iPhone, the factory radio already supports CarPlay via cable, so you only need to buy a small wireless adapter.
Keep in mind that this guide applies only to the first generation of both models: the 208 manufactured in Europe from 2012 to August 2019 and the 2008 produced from 2013 to 2019. The second generation, launched in 2019, is a completely different car with a different dashboard. In the newer car, if your phone launches CarPlay via cable, all you need for convenience is a wireless adapter.
How to identify the system version in your car
The first-generation Peugeot 208 and 2008 share the same dashboard design. In most versions, you will find a factory 7-inch touchscreen running the SMEG or the newer SMEG+ system. However, the mere presence of the display does not mean you have access to modern phone apps.
The Mirror Screen feature only appeared with the 208 facelift in 2015 and in the facelifted 2008 introduced in February 2016. In cars with Mirror Screen, the factory system allows a wired connection to an Apple phone via the USB port to run Apple CarPlay on the 7-inch screen. For Android smartphones, the Mirror Screen feature in the 208 used the MirrorLink standard rather than full Android Auto, while in materials for the 2008 Peugeot mentions only CarPlay.
The simplest test is to connect your phone using an original USB cable to the car's factory port. If the CarPlay or Android Auto menu appears on the display right away, your car already has this system and you do not need to replace the radio. No reaction at all means you have an older SMEG version without Mirror Screen, which does not support either of these standards.
Fun fact: In 2013, Sébastien Loeb drove a specially prepared 875 hp Peugeot 208 T16 rally car in the famous American Pikes Peak hill climb, breaking the course record at the time.
Below you will find solutions tailored to the first generation of both cars, ranging from complete head units to adapters and screens.
Recommended head units and adapters for the Peugeot 208 and 2008
1. AAWireless Two+
adapter · wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
For cars that already have factory wired CarPlay or Android Auto. The adapter plugs into the USB port and from then on the phone connects by itself, no cable. Works with iPhone and Android.
2. Carlinkit Mini Ultra 3
small adapter · wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
A cheaper, smaller wireless adapter for cars with factory wired CarPlay or Android Auto. Plug it into the USB port and forget the cable.
3. Carpuride W701 Pro 7"
dash screen · no install · 7 inch
The easiest way to get CarPlay in any car: a portable screen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto that sits on the dash and runs off the 12 V socket. Sound goes to the car speakers over Bluetooth, FM or AUX.
Dedicated head unit instead of the factory screen
In cars from 2012-2018 lacking Mirror Screen, the most convenient everyday solution is installing a new multimedia head unit. A dedicated head unit completely replaces the factory tablet atop the center console, giving you a modern display and wireless phone connectivity.
Choosing a head unit tailored to these models allows you to retain steering wheel control buttons. Modern units, such as Hikity or Hexinex 10.1-inch, offer a reversing camera input as well as wireless CarPlay and Android Auto support, solving the issue of missing factory features.
Before purchasing, make sure to check the description of the selected unit regarding climate control operation. In some trim levels of the Peugeot 208 and 2008, the air conditioning is controlled directly from the touchscreen. A good dedicated head unit must take over these functions so you do not lose the ability to adjust the interior temperature.
Integration module for factory SMEG and portable display
If you do not want to remove the factory display, a dedicated electronic module, such as one from InCarTec, is an alternative. This type of module connects directly to the factory SMEG system, bringing CarPlay and Android Auto to the original 7-inch screen. The advantage of this solution is maintaining a completely stock interior look.
For those looking for the simplest and most affordable installation, a portable display, such as Carpuride, is a great option. Such a screen mounts on the dashboard or attaches to the windshield with a suction cup. The device is powered directly from the cigarette lighter socket, eliminating the need to modify the car's wiring.
The portable screen connects wirelessly to your phone and displays CarPlay or Android Auto. Navigation audio and music are sent to the factory Peugeot speakers via an AUX cable, a built-in FM transmitter, or a Bluetooth connection. It is a convenient option that you can move to another car in a minute if needed.
Frequently asked questions about connectivity in Peugeot 208 and 2008
Does the 2014 Peugeot 208 have CarPlay?
No, 2014 models did not come with factory CarPlay or Android Auto. The Mirror Screen feature with Apple phone support only appeared in this model after the facelift in 2015. To use maps in a 2014 car, you need to replace the head unit, add an external module, or buy a portable display.
Is Mirror Screen the same as Android Auto?
No, these are two different technical solutions. In the Peugeot 208, Mirror Screen works with iPhones via Apple CarPlay, but Android smartphones rely on the older MirrorLink protocol. This does not provide access to the full Android Auto system.
Does a head unit for the 208 fit the Peugeot 2008?
Yes, a head unit dedicated to the first-generation 208 also fits the first-generation 2008 crossover. Both cars share an identical dashboard and mounting points for the factory 7-inch touchscreen. Always verify that your car's model year falls within the 2012-2018 range specified by the head unit manufacturer.
Can CarPlay be added to the factory SMEG screen?
Yes, this is possible using dedicated video modules, such as solutions from InCarTec. The module is installed behind the factory SMEG or SMEG+ system, allowing you to run the CarPlay and Android Auto interface on the original Peugeot display. This does not require replacing the car's actual screen.
Do steering wheel controls work after replacing the head unit in a 208?
Yes, good dedicated units for the Peugeot 208 and 2008 retain steering wheel controls. An appropriate communication module in the head unit reads signals from the car's factory wiring. However, before purchasing, it is worth checking the technical specifications to ensure that the chosen head unit also supports on-screen climate control.
See also
Sources
- Stellantis &You UK: Peugeot Mirror Screen (CarPlay and MirrorLink) - manufacturer page (stellantisandyou.co.uk)
- Wikipedia: Peugeot 208 - industry article (en.wikipedia.org)
- Wikipedia: Peugeot 2008 - industry article (en.wikipedia.org)
- InCarTec: Add CarPlay and Android Auto to Peugeot and Citroen vehicles with SMEG and MRN navigation - industry article (incartec.co.uk)
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