IT appears the whole world is catching on downsized car models which had been the
norm in most of Europe for generations. Other parts of the world, South Africa, big
sedans with American and German influence had been a way of life, including the
midsize Japanese family cars. The world is going compact now: smaller cellphones,
personal computers, living spaces, underwear and even cars. 
Smaller is the new big, hence Peugeot’s new 208 range, which is now available in
South Africa. The new 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.
 
Peugeot 208 – Specifications and Features:
Engine Capability
A new-generation three-cylinder petrol engine makes its debut in the 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 5 750rpm with a
maximum torque figure of 118Nm available at 2 750rpm. 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 6 000rpm with a maximum torque figure of 160Nm available from 4
250rpm. 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 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 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 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.
Price List
Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi Access
R154 900
 
Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi Active
R169 900
 
Peugeot 208 1.6 VTi Allure
R189 900