Peugeot 208 Review
The Peugeot 208 is one of the best looking small cars on the market right now. Peugeot’s small car has always been popular, right from the original 205, but this new version takes it a big step forward.
The Peugeot 208 has had something of a makeover. It looks different but is also completely different under the skin.
It is now streets ahead of its predecessor and has made all the right improvements in all the right places.
Peugeot 208 design and interior
The design of the Peugeot 208 brings the car into line with the current family look. It’s a thoroughly modern design with a large grille flanked by LED running lights and a pair of angled headlights.
It’s a great first impression.
The rest of the design includes lots of panel detailing, a curved bonnet, raked windscreen and rolling roof that flows into the rear hatch.
We love the design and think it’s the best small Peugeot yet.
Inside, the Peugeot 208 steps up the quality game. It uses quality materials throughout and is very well put together. There are no rattles or creaks, shut lines are precise and everything feels good.
You get plenty of technology, including a smart touchscreen and a digital dashboard. It’s all very smart and pleasing to the eye too.
Engines and drivetrain
There are four engine options with the Peugeot 208 and an electric version.
There’s a 1.5-litre diesel that produces 100 hp and three petrol engines. There are three versions of a 1.2-litre petrol engine offering anywhere from 75 hp up to 100 hp. Two are manual and one is automatic.
All engines drive the front wheels.
The electric e-208 uses a 100kW electric motor that can deliver up to 217 miles of range thanks to its 50kWh battery.
All deliver excellent acceleration and a responsive drive. The petrol versions are far more so than the diesel and the manual more so than the automatic.
Nothing beats the electric version though! It’s swift, responsive and quiet too!
Driving the Peugeot 208
The Peugeot 208 is a small car with a big heart. It’s relatively lightweight and has a very responsive chassis that combines to enable the engines to punch way above their weight.
The pick of the bunch is the 100 hp petrol engine that pulls from low revs and has enough get up and go for any situation.
It delivers decent fuel economy too.
The suspension setup is on the softer side but there’s very little body roll in corners. It delivers a smooth ride on all but the roughest roads, making it easy to drive anywhere.
The Peugeot 208 is also surprisingly quiet for a small car. Get into a 208 from a Fiesta or Polo and you’ll immediately notice how little engine or road noise you hear in the cabin.
This is a real strength of the car, especially if you do a lot of miles.
Pros and cons of the Peugeot 208
The Peugeot 208 is a great little car with a lot going for it.
Pros include:
- Amazing looks
- High quality interior
- Plenty of technology
- Responsive engines
- Decent EV range
- Reasonable price considering the quality
Cons include:
- Softer suspension won’t be for everyone
- Infotainment takes a little getting used to
- Steering wheel shape
Verdict of the Peugeot 208
Considering the price, the Peugeot 208 delivers a lot. It has an exceptional design with instant appeal and is one of the few cars around right now with genuine character.
Build quality is also excellent, with the interior being a particular highlight.
The petrol engines are peppy and fuel efficient, which is great news right now. The e-208 offers impressive range for the size too.
Overall, we think the 208 is one of the most interesting small cars on the market right now and is definitely worth a look.
If you’re in the market for a small car with a big personality, the Peugeot 208 could be perfect.
Test drive the Peugeot 208 at Budgen in Telford or Shrewsbury.
