Peugeot has launched the new Peugeot 208 range in South Africa. The new Peugeot 208 is offered in three attractive models namely the 1.2 VTi Access, the 1.2 VTi Active and the 1.6 VTi Allure. The new 208 is compact, light, spacious and aerodynamic and offers a high level of quality and innovative technology in the highly competitive compact hatchback segment.

New Peugeot 208 – Specifications and Features

??Engine Capability

A new-generation three-cylinder petrol engine makes its debut in the new Peugeot 208 and comes in the form of the 1.2-litre VTi engine that is both compact and lightweight and features Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This unit produces 60kW at 5750rpm with a maximum torque figure of 118Nm available at 2750rpm. This engine is capable of a combined fuel consumption figure of 4.5-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 104g/km.

The range-topping 208 Allure is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 88kW at 6000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 160Nm available from 4250rpm. This engine achieves a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.8-litres/100km with a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 134g/km. Both engines are mated with a 5-speed manual transmission that transfers power to the front wheels.

Exterior Styling??

The new Peugeot 208 features a distinctly new front-end design that incorporates a bold ‘floating’ grille that’s accented with either aluminium grey or chrome surrounds and a honeycomb-style radiator further emphasises the unique design character of the new 208. The 208 Allure benefits from an LED light guide and three LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) which are incorporated into the headlights.

At the rear, the boomerang-shaped light clusters incorporate Peugeot’s unique light signature defined by three illuminated ‘claws’ that reinforce the brands feline-inspired design cues. The entry-level 208 Access rides on 15-inch steel rims with plastic wheel trims while the 208 Active rides on turbine-steel, seven-spoke alloy wheels. The range-topping 208 allure benefits from double-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels as standard. The new Peugeot 208 is available with a choice of 10 exterior colours including ‘Oasis Blue’ which is available exclusively for the 208 Allure.

??Interior Styling

The interior styling of the new Peugeot 208 reflects a new design approach that creates a more intimate relationship between the car and driver. The instruments and controls are positioned ergonomically around the driver to enhance driving comfort and pleasure. The instrument panel is raised to meet the driver’s natural range of vision and combines analogue dials with a multi-function digital display. The small diameter steering wheel makes manoeuvring easier while enhancing feel and feedback.

A large 7-inch touch-screen is fitted on the higher-spec models and features carefully designed graphics with intuitive positioning and operation. The screen provides access to various multimedia functions including the FM/AM radio, Bluetooth telephony system and music files via USB or Bluetooth audio streaming. The interior is spacious and the boot offers 311 litres of space, 15 litres more than the previous model.

??Standard Features??

Standard features for the entry level 1.2 VTi Access includes air-conditioning, electric front windows, height-adjustable driver’s seat, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, multi-function trip computer and refrigerated glove box. The 208 Access also benefits from a high-mounted MP3-compatible CD player with Bluetooth functionality for hands-free cellphone connectivity and audio streaming.

The 1.2 VTi Active gets front fog lights, electric side mirrors, cruise control, a seven-inch touch-screen and a 60/40 rear split bench with a through loading feature. The 1.6 VTi Allure benefits from 16-inch alloys with lower profile tyres. The back and rear windows are also tinted. The 208 Allure features an automatic dual-zone climate control system as well as an electrochromatic rear view mirror and leather trimmed steering wheel.

New Peugeot 208 – Price

Prices include a 5-year/60 000km Premium Plan and a 3-year/100 000km warranty.