Name: Peugeot 208 Review
Item: Peugeot 208
Author: Gumtree.com

Peugeot solidified its long-running success in the UK with the launch of the Peugeot 208 supermini in 2012. The latest iteration, from 2019, sees the small hatchback receive a sleek new design, improved handling and a clever use of its limited interior space. There’s also a good amount of choice on offer, with four 1.2-litre petrols, a 1.5-litre diesel and an all-electric model (the e-208) to choose from. You’re sure to get great efficiency from whichever engine you go with, as well as excellent build quality at every trim. Peugeot have truly rediscovered the joy of their hatchback range with the latest 208 model – ideal for those often on the road or in need of a nimble city car.

Explore the details at the Peugeot 208 hub.

What we think about the Peugeot 208

The reliable and nimble 208 is a refreshing return to form for Peugeot, with the sleek design matched by ambitious performance.

Pros

Punchy and efficient petrol engines

Wide range of the latest technology

Fresh aesthetics, both inside and outside

Cons

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Suspension feels a little firm

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Limited advanced safety tech

Considered one of the best iterations in terms of looks, specs and performance, the 2020 Peugeot 208 comes in a range of decently powerful petrol engines. There’s one 1.5-litre diesel and, for the first time ever, an all electric version: the e-208. Past models have scored either four-star or five-star NCAP safety ratings.

Driving performance of the Peugeot 208

Our Driving Rating7 / 10

The latest 208 surpasses previous iterations in the performance department. The punchy output feels different to other city cars thanks to the impact of its turbo engines, with reliable and strong acceleration. The low-profile tyres hug the road, reducing accidental wheel-spin and understeer. While the suspension feels slightly firm at times, particularly on the rear wheels, it’s not enough to cause any discomfort. The 208’s wind-resistant design means you can comfortably drive around with limited exterior disturbance.

Safety and reliability of the Peugeot 208

Our Safety Rating7 / 10

Any fairly recent 208 models are available with lots of the latest safety tech, including airbags for the front passengers, curtain airbags and two Isofix points for children’s seats in the back. But because Euro NCAP concluded that passengers are only adequately protected in a collision, the 2019 208 scored a four-star overall rating. Despite this, its standard safety tech offerings remain generous, consisting of hill start assist, lane keep assist and autonomous braking with pedestrian detection. You can also add adaptive cruise control to lower trims with Peugeot’s Drive Assist Pack.

Under the bonnet of the Peugeot 208

Our Engine Rating8 / 10

The entry-level 208 engines start with a 75 bhp petrol variant, which will do 0-62 mph in approximately 14.9 seconds – not the fastest in the range, but ideal for urban streets. The most popular choice is the turbocharged petrol, delivering improved acceleration and the choice of a 6-speed manual gearbox or an 8-speed automatic transmission. Peugeot also offer a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox, reaching 62 mph in approximately 10.2 seconds.

What you'll find in the Peugeot 208

Our Design Rating8 / 10

The 208’s minimal exterior adds style through simplicity. Peugeot’s traditional sloped bonnet and unconventional front section are uniquely charming, while the rear lights are satisfyingly dynamic and the aluminium alloy wheels add a hint of brash style. The small hatched boot offers 311 litres of space – not bad given the compact design. It seems Peugeot have taken their favourite design elements from the rest of their range and combined them into the stylish and understated 208.

Comfort and interiors in the Peugeot 208

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

Peugeot have tried to make good use of the latest 208’s limited space, with the front seats offering a decent amount of room. There are two cupholders under the dashboard that are quite narrow and about an inch deep – not ideal for a larger morning coffee. The glovebox is compact, but the front-dashboard offers an area to store your phone. The 208 gives you a generous amount of legroom for the rear seats, but unusually refrains from providing any side-door pockets for storage.

What features you'll find in the Peugeot 208

Our Features Rating6 / 10

The newest 208 comes with a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the standard Peugeot tech that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sat-nav system also comes as standard, while a panoramic fixed glass roof and a dual-zone climate control system increase the ride’s comfort. A self-parking feature, front and rear parking sensors with a reversing camera are some thoughtful additions to the trim list, with plenty of options for dedicated tech lovers to choose from.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Peugeot 208

Our Fuel Consumption Rating7 / 10

The Peugeot 208 has been developed to improve on the manufacturer’s previous fuel economy figures, with the best performer being the 1.5-litre diesel – it will deliver approximately 71.4 mpg and emit 92 g/km of CO2 on average. The 208’s petrol engines are also impressive, with the 1.2-litre petrol model offering 53.6 mpg and emitting 98 g/km of CO2. This reduces to 46.6 mpg with its more powerful 100 bhp version, which will also emit 102 g/km of CO2.

Running costs of the Peugeot 208

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

Peugeot’s reputation for great reliability is expected to continue with the latest iteration of the 208, especially given that their 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines are tried and tested veterans. Happily, Peugeot also offer a 5-year warranty, just in case you find yourself in a challenging situation on the road. Annual services are recommended as the norm for the 208, or after every 13,500 miles depending on how often you use your car.

Our verdict of the Peugeot 208

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

The stylish and economical 208 sees Peugeot return to its roots, delivering a city car that's both aesthetically pleasing and a joy to drive.

Peugeot 208 Review