Peugeot 208 review

From ÂŁ17,155

It’s not as much fun as a Fiesta, but it’s cooler than a Corsa and feels as upmarket as a Volkswagen Polo.

  • Peugeot 208
  • For: Styling, fun to drive, electric version
  • Against: Ride quality, four-star safety rating
  • Verdict: The coolest and prettiest supermini you can buy

The Peugeot 208 faces a tough battle: the Ford Fiesta remains the default choice in the supermini sector, while the Vauxhall Corsa – which shares its platform with the 208 – has familiarity on its side.

Inside, the cabin looks like nothing else in this class, while Peugeot’s i-Cockpit dashboard will continue to frustrate and delight in equal measure.

Perhaps the 208’s trump card is an electric version, with the e-208’s 50kWh battery delivering up to 211 miles of range on a full charge. But it’s not our favourite version of the 208.

That accolade belongs to the entry-level 75hp 1.2-litre PureTech petrol, which is both peppy and economical. We’ll reserve full judgement until we’ve driven the 208 in the UK, but right now, we think it’s a supermini worth considering.

It’s not as much fun as a Fiesta, but it’s cooler than a Corsa and feels as upmarket as a Volkswagen Polo.

KEY INFO

  • Launched: 2020
  • Facelifted: TBC
  • Due for replacement: TBC
Specs
Model: Peugeot 208
Prices from: ÂŁ17,155
Engines: 1.2, 1.2T 100/130, 1.5d, electric
Gearboxes: 6-speed manual, 8-speed auto
Bodystyles: Hatch
Trims: Active, Active Premium, Allure, GT Line
Euro NCAP: Not tested
Power: 75-136 hp
0-62mph: 8.1-14.9 seconds
Fuel economy: 50.3-71.4 mpg
Battery size: 50 kWh
Electric range: 211 miles
CO2: 109-134 g/km
Dimensions (l/w/h): 4,055/1,745/1,430 mm
Boot capacity: 311 litres
Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles