Peugeot 208 is first ’mini to offer petrol, diesel and electric power

PEUGEOT was first out of the blocks with its allnew 208 supermini in the run-up to the Geneva Motor Show. The Ford Fiesta rival has lagged behind its rivals in virtually every aspect, so the French brand took a rather radical approach with the latest model.

Based on a new platform, called CMP, the 208 is the first Peugeot to be offered as petrol, diesel and fully electric model. This is a real USP for the supermini, because it’s also the first car in its class to be offered with a trio of different powertrains.

The entry-level PureTech 75 has a 74bhp 1.2-litre petrol three-cylinder that propels the front wheels via a five-speed manual box. A more muscular PureTech 100 turbo takes power up to 99bhp and gets a sixspeed manual. Peugeot’s EAT eight-speed automatic is optional with this edition, while the top-spec 128bhp PureTech 130 features the auto as standard.

As diesel sales continue to dwindle, especially in smaller cars such as the 208, the only option here is a 99bhp 1.5-litre four-cylinder paired with a six-speed manual. It’s expected to make up only a fraction of all 208 sales. The most interesting of the trio is the electric e-208. It’s powered by a 50kWh battery that drives a 134bhp electric motor on the front axle. Peugeot says it’s good for up to 211 miles on a single charge.

Whichever edition you go for, one thing will remain consistent: the design. Peugeot has intentionally made the electric version identical to the conventional petrol and diesel models, so as not to deter buyers with an alienating EV design. Elements of the latest 208’s styling nod to the French firm’s past. The curved C-pillar and thick black arch extensions are an homage to the legendary 205 GTi, but Peugeot’s modern-day design cues are still present in the fang-shaped LED daytime running lights and claw-like headlamps.

The cabin is a big step on from any other supermini, too. A new 3D version of Peugeot’s trademark i-Cockpit makes its debut, and ‘piano key’ switchgear replaces a lot of conventional switches to give a more upmarket look. All models also feature touchscreen infotainment; on lower-spec variants it is a seven-inch display, while top-spec editions get a larger 10-inch unit.