The 208 is a big deal for Peugeot. As superminis go it sells well and is a popular and economical car.
It’s not alone in the market, however, and this refresh has been designed to boost the car’s appeal, green credentials and take the fight to the likes of the Mini and Citroen’s DS3.
Taking a leaf out of the Mini’s playbook, Peugeot is offering 208 buyers a modest level of trim and colour personalisation.
Staying with the aesthetics, the car has benefited from a nose and tail refresh, while all bar the base model gain a colour touchscreen giving access to the main entertainment, navigation and ventilation features.
Looks are everything in the increasingly competitive and crowded supermini market. Following the trend for personalisation and the desire to focus harder on younger buyers, the 208 looks the part and can be purchased with a few choice extras.
With Peugeot’s refresh of the 208 focusing on exterior design and updated engines, the car’s cabin remains unchanged.
In three-door guise the car offers a balance of space and practicality if you don’t plan on using the rear seats much. The five-door is a better choice as a starter family car. Folding rear seats, generous oddment storage and a city parking space-friendly footprint complete the 208’s talents.
Peugeot’s reputation for delivering engaging cars remains intact with the 208.
At a basic level the car feels more agile and willing than many rivals, and the decision to fit a smaller steering wheel goes some way to tricking you into thinking you’re driving a racing car not a supermini.
Still, what’s important here is the introduction of two key engines, a new 1.2-litre petrol triple and 79g/km CO2 diesel.
Business users will no doubt warm to the latter but it’s the former turbo petrol unit that’s likely to appeal to private buyers.
It’s certainly punchy enough thanks to its 108 horsepower, and you never miss that fourth cylinder even when pushing on.
The general uplift in standard kit is also welcome, and reduces the temptation to browse the cost options list.
Peugeot’s 208 is most definitely not a Mini, and for many people that’s
reason enough to consider the compact French
hatch.
If you’re not a fan of BMW’s effort then the 208 offers a comparable experience from behind the wheel, ensuring keen drivers can enjoy themselves.
For everyone else, the 208’s bold looks, accommodating cabin and affordable ownership position it high up within the supermini sector.
Facts & figures
Model: Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech GT Line 3dr
Price: £16,095
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol unit producing 108bhp
Performance: Top speed 118mph, 0-62mph in 9.6 seconds
Economy: 62.8mpg combined
CO2 rating: 103g/km