Car review (launch report): Peugeot 208
The new range of Peugeot 208 hopes to sit amongst the heavy weights of this segment such as the Opel Corsa, VW Polo and Renault Clio. But can it stand its ground? We attended the launch to find out.
The new Peugeot 208 line-up consists of three models:
- The entry-level ‘Pop-Art‘ model,
- the ‘Allure‘ model and
- the more premium “GT Line” model.
Between the new models of the Peugeot 208 lineup, there is a choice between three high-efficiency Euro6-compliant PureTech engines, two transmissions and two trim levels.
Across the new range, Peugeot has tried to revitalise the styling with features like the full LED 3D “Claw” rear lights. Another common trait across all the models is the more efficient fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
I drove the new Peugeot 208 “GT Line” model. Its turbocharged engine performs very well and the new six-speed-gearbox is impressive. These are only featured in the higher end models, with the rest featuring naturally aspirated 1.0 or 1.2 litre engines.
The turbocharged 1.2 delivers 81 kW and 205 Nm while the naturally aspirated 1.2 litre only 60 kW and 118 Nm and the 1.0 litre 50 kW and 95 Nm.
The exterior is stylish and I especially like the new “Claw” LED back-lights, a nice touch! In the driver’s seat – I really enjoyed the smaller steering wheel. The car feels very agile on the road!
In the cabin however, I wasn’t a fan of the i-Cockpit design or the plastic finishes across the dashboard. It doesn’t seem to fit together aesthetically and touching the plastic in between the dials on the console leaves fingerprint marks, meaning you’d probably need to carry a cloth around in the car, if you are a clean freak like me!
The functionality of it is very good though – everything is easily visible at a glance and user friendly.
The smaller steering wheel means that the instruments are easier to access. It has been reported that the design grows on you after a while, as to that I can’t say. We will have to wait until we have it on test for a full week!
Overall a comfortable drive with performance to match!
Pricing:
- 208 Pop Art 1.0 R159 900
- 208 Active 1.2 R209 900
- 208 GT Line 1.2T Manual R269 900
- 208 GT Line 1.2T Auto R289 900
Peugeot will also enter a model into the sub-B segment, think Polo Vivo, Ford Figo, Vivo, Renault Sandero and Toyota Etios, with its new 208 Pop Art. It is powered by a 1-litre engine with 50 kW and 95 Nm and is priced at a reasonable R159 900 which means Peugeot can offer finance options for the model for as little as R2000 p/m!