2 February 2016
208 Re-energised
The 4-cylinder engine has now lost a cylinder and gained a turbo. The 208 now boasts the latest generation 81 kW PureTech 110 engine which is coupled with a 6-speed automatic. The inclusion of stop/start (S&S) technology also helps the 208 achieve Euro 6 emissions. The new transmission is a lighter and more efficient gearbox and includes a quick-shift technology to allow for faster and smoother shifts. It also has two more speeds than the previous 208 and it features in the new Citroen C4 as well. Although the new 208 has 7 kW less power, torque is up 45Nm and comes in a whopping 2,750rpm earlier at 1500rpm. This means that this lightweight city vehicle can accelerate quite fast.
I found the interior very pleasant on the eyes and it was also comfortable to drive in. The light-coloured hood lining was a welcome contrast to the dark interior styling. The already successful i-Cockpit and a combination of factors help enhance the unique and stimulating Peugeot driving experience. One of my favourites was the small sports car steering wheel which added to the fun feeling of driving a small zippy car. The head-up instrument panel is quite unique as the complete dashboard display sits high above the steering wheel. This places it in the driver’s field of vision for greater comfort and safety. Information is easily accessed and displayed via the 7inch touch screen. It was quite simple to operate and we soon got the hand of typing in the navigation address.
Quite hi-tech really
The range has been scaled to two key models - Active and Allure. This ensures class leading levels of spec and options are available, including a unique new textured paint finish. Reverse camera is now added on the Allure spec, while Active City Brake, Mirrorlink and City Park are available as additional options. Mirrorlink is the optional mirror screen function that allows the duplication of a smartphone screen in the vehicle’s touch screen, allowing the best use of its applications.
The optional textured paint is something quite special and adds a futuristic touch to the new 208. While the paint is a world first in mass production from a factory, it is also more hard wearing and easier to care for than traditional matt paints. This is becauseits composition is micro-scratch resistant and it’s compatible with Karcher/Gerni high pressure washes and automated roller car washes. The paint itself is made up of a 4-coat process and the initial coats are made up of anti-corrosion, primer and base colour as per traditional metallic paint processes. However, the topcoat is infused with silica and polyamide, giving the paint its unique finish, texture and abrasion resistance.
Costs
The Peugeot 208 may be small but it’s still roomy and it’s a great choice of a stylish and feature packed hatch that comes at a very reasonable price. Prices for the Active PureTech automatic start at $27,990 + ORC and from $30,990 + ORC for the Allure PureTech automatic.