FRENCH FANCY
THE Peugeot 208 is perfect when it comes to first impressions. With supermini fans spoilt for choice in a marketplace boasting an abundance of top talent, catching a potential customer’s attention is a vital prerequisite in the battle for sales.
And thanks to an exterior boasting plenty of joie de vivre, the French company’s latest offering gains a head start with good looks a given.
The 208 upholds Peugeot’s pedigree for producing stylish superminis as silky smooth lines and lion’s claw lights, aided and abetted by a natty grille plus nifty alloy wheels, give this supermini plenty of kerb appeal.
The modern interior is similarly well designed, with figure-hugging seats boasting neat contrast stitching that is also used on the multifunction steering wheel.
The black door panels and dashboard feature carbon effect shiny inserts to lift proceedings while an armrest between driver and front seat passenger hides a box that four adults although taller passengers will find legroom a little tight in the back seats.
The boot is adequate, providing 311 litres for shopping or luggage for a weekend away, and the rear seats split and fold when not in use providing more space.
Driving to your destination will be anything but dull judging by the gem of a three-pot 129bhp turbocharged engine on show here which, partnered with the automatic transmission, propels the 208 from 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 129mph.
It is reasonably frugal when it comes to fuel consumption, with a claimed average economy figure just north of 50mpg with emissions of 128g/km.
Engine options available include two other versions of the 1.2-litre petrol power unit as well as a
1.5-litre diesel and a full-electric version.
Twisting country lanes are handled with aplomb while the 208 also proves itself adept on motorway journeys thanks to a smooth ride and good soundproofing.
There are lots of driver aids, such as stability control and lane keeping assist as well as speed limit recognition and tyre pressure monitors, while six airbags provide reassurance should an accident be unavoidable.
The 208 is a supermini offering the vital feelgood factor that should attract plenty of fans in a crowded marketplace.