Starting at a petrol-turbo mid-point of the new 208 range, the PureTech 100 version of the saucy 1.2-litre, three-cylinder motor that is also available in 75 and 130 forms, is sensible, as it is quite likely that it will become the range best-seller, even with a diesel in 100 guise to consider. It is worth highlighting that there is also a fully electric e208 but I shall be testing that model soon.
The model numbers are a marketing convenience, as the 100 develops 99bhp, which compares most favourably with the best-sellers from Peugeot’s main rivals. Thanks to a slight reduction in weight over the previous 208, this engine provides a zingy zestiness that I had not anticipated. In Allure trim, it is listed just shy of £19,000 (pre-discount), which is costlier than the older equivalent, until you hone-in on the car’s interior and appreciate that it is not just a slightly downsized version of the larger 508 but is also of such high merchantable quality, you can understand why Peugeot is targeting the latest Audi A1 as a rival product.
Riding on 17.0-inch diameter alloy wheels that fill the arches really well, the test example had a number of GT-Line features factored-into its specification, such as ‘auto-on’ LED headlamps, with smart full beam, adaptive cruise control and stop:go push-button start, which come with the automatic gearbox. The growing list of driver assist programs (including lane keep, traffic sign recognition and automatic emergency braking) illustrate that Peugeot is determined to hike the talents of its 208 onto a loftier plane.
While its verve is up to the task, so too is its dynamic balance. For many years, this car (since the original 205) has been gifted with hugely engaging ride and handling characteristics. I ran a 207 as a long-term test example a few years ago that never disappointed. The new 208 possesses a sporty edge that can make its low speed ride feel a bit nuggety but there are no complaints at higher velocities, which the car tackles with sublime maturity. The build quality is superb and the test car featured no disturbing creaks or rattles, which suggests that its improved torsional rigidity is also on the money. Crisp steering and pleasantly weighted brakes are highly satisfying aspects.
Perhaps the new 208’s most amazing attribute is space, an area that Peugeot has addressed with a mixed bag of results in the past. The company has got it right this time. There is bags of space up front and rear seat passengers, although compromised behind taller front seat occupants, benefit from increased head, shoulder and hip room. All 208s are five-door hatches and access to a spacious boot (almost 975-litres, with the seats folded) demonstrates that Peugeot has worked hard on increasing people appeal, although the company still insists on using its tiny and low-set steering wheel that works better for shorter drivers.
