Peugeot 208: A Compelling Supermini with Stylish Design and Fun Driving Experience
The Peugeot 208 has been a popular choice among European car buyers, consistently ranking as one of the best-selling cars in the region. Despite facing tough competition from rivals like the Renault Clio, Vauxhall Corsa, Volkswagen Polo, and Hyundai i20, the 208 has managed to hold its own in the fiercely competitive small car segment.
One of the reasons for the 208’s success is its stylish design. Peugeot has been known for its excellent styling in recent years, and the refreshed 208 builds on the current-generation model’s good looks. The front of the car features the signature three vertical light ‘claws’ that have become synonymous with Peugeot’s lineup. In the latest version, the LEDs have been moved down from the headlight to the bumper, giving the car a more dynamic appearance. The new Peugeot logo sits on a front grille that now extends into the bumper, incorporating the car’s body color. At the rear, the vertical three red claw lights have been replaced with horizontal lights that extend across the black strip around the boot lid, creating a sense of greater width. Overall, the 208’s design changes are subtle but effective, enhancing the car’s aesthetic appeal.
Inside, the Peugeot 208 GT model impresses with its high-quality finish and top-notch equipment levels. The layout of the interior is aesthetically pleasing, and the 10-inch infotainment touchscreen is easy to use. The GT model comes with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB-C ports, wireless smartphone charging, parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and more. However, some drivers may find the seating position to be a bit tricky, as the instrument panel may not be fully visible when the steering wheel is adjusted appropriately. Despite this, the 208 offers sufficient space in the front for tall drivers, though headroom may be slightly limited compared to rivals like the Polo. In the rear, taller passengers may find ingress and egress a bit challenging due to the relatively narrow door apertures. The boot offers a respectable 311 liters of space, though the narrower opening may require some careful packing.
When it comes to performance, the Peugeot 208 offers a range of engine options. The mid-life refresh includes the introduction of 48V mild-hybrid models with 99bhp and 134bhp. These models feature an integrated starter-generator (ISG) that provides extra torque at low revs and improves fuel consumption by up to 15%. The 136bhp mild-hybrid variant offers a good balance of power and efficiency, with a claimed fuel economy of up to 65.0mpg. Behind the wheel, the 208 GT delivers a fun and nippy driving experience, thanks to its light weight, responsive steering, and ample power. However, some drivers may find the whirring noise from the ISG and engine slightly intrusive at higher speeds.
In terms of ride and handling, the Peugeot 208 GT performs well on winding B-roads, offering good grip and predictable handling. The steering is enjoyable, with a newfound weight that adds to the car’s overall driving experience. On smoother roads, the chassis provides a comfortable ride, although rougher surfaces may cause some discomfort. The suspension, particularly in the GT model, can feel firm in town settings, so opting for a lower-spec model with smaller wheels may be more preferable for city driving.
Overall, the Peugeot 208 is a compelling supermini that offers excellent looks, a premium finish, and a fun driving experience. However, it faces tough competition from rivals like the Renault Clio, Seat Ibiza, Skoda Fabia, and Hyundai i20, which rank higher in this cut-throat segment. For those considering the 208, it’s worth exploring both the most powerful 1.2-litre petrol engine and the upper mild-hybrid variant to find the best combination of power and efficiency. With its stylish design and enjoyable driving dynamics, the Peugeot 208 remains a strong contender in the small car market.
