Review - Peugeot 208

The 208 is the French company’s smallest model, featuring a very economical 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder, packaging in plenty of French ingenuity and quirky functionality.

Design flair versus practicality

You can certainly tell just from sitting inside the 208 that this isn’t your average German or Japanese vehicle; and we like that. It’s all too easy for interior designs to blend in together, with only minute differences from car make to car make. Here though, Peugeot has gone a different direction. 

There’s a tiny steering wheel that rides low, and a dashboard that curves around a 7.0-inch touch-screen. The climate control buttons are housed in shapely black plastic and while basic in their appearance, they blend together in a uniquely European aesthetic.

There are times that French stylistic hubris can prove tiresome, like the positioning of the cruise control stalk, which is almost completely hidden behind the steering wheel, and the cup holders that can house an espresso shot, and not much more. 

Visibility isn’t all that great for this class either, partly due to the thick pillars at the back. But, like us, you’ll probably be prepared to forgive Peugeot for focusing on the 208’s chic design rather than its packaging minutia. 

As smooth as French vanilla ice-cream 

Driving enjoyment is very high thanks to great handling. This little thing hangs on in the bends, with grippy tyres biting into the tarmac like circular claws. Pair this with a well-sorted steering setup that offers a sense of immediacy and engagement, and you’re left with nothing but a huge grin.

French cars are known for offering superb ride comfort and the same is applied to the 208. This is one of the most comfortable small hatches to drive, in terms of its ability to absorb bumps and iron out bad roads. And we all know how bad some roads are in the city. 

Our verdict

The 208 is Peugeot’s answer to cars such as the Mazda2 and Toyota Yaris. But unlike those, the 208 has a distinct endearing and passionate personality, which means you aren’t likely to become bored by it as soon as you might in the others. Pricing has been tightened up over the years as well, giving buyers a genuine European option in the compact car class. 

5 specs you need to know:

1. Engine: 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder
2. Transmission and drive: Six-speed auto, front-wheel drive
3. ANCAP safety rating: Five stars
4. Official fuel economy: 4.5L/100km (5.2L/100km during test)
5. Time from 0-100km/h: 10.9 seconds 

Pros

• Unique French design
• Sips fuel
• Smooth ride and handling 

Cons

• Some quirky elements impede practicality
• Low brand reputation