Peugeot's track record in the city car segment is legendary . Just look back at the 205 and all the commercial and sporting successes it achieved. But the 206 marked a new turning point, giving a boost to its ambitions to grow as a global manufacturer. The 207 was also a success, but its fierce competition didn't make things easy. Then, with the previous and current Peugeot 208, they've climbed the ladder again…
In fact, the latest and current generation of the 208 is the most complete and technologically advanced of them all. And not only that, but it's ahead of its time, as it's one of the only electric city cars on the market , along with its Stellantis cousins . But its advanced technology and attractive design , to avoid the onslaught of its rivals, also need updating. To that end, its designers have worked on a significant restyling, which is being unveiled today. And make no mistake, it's better in every way…
The style of the renewed Peugeot 208 is more aggressive and technological…
Externally, the updated Peugeot 208 has changed substantially, although it maintains its 4,05-meter length. The most striking change is the new front end, which the brand describes as "more feline and modern ." It now features redesigned full LED headlights that incorporate the new daytime running light signature seen on the recent 508 and 2008 models. The grille has also been updated; depending on the trim level, the internal pattern and the new Peugeot logo have been modified.
From the side, there are no significant changes, as this is a facelift to minimize costs. However, it does feature updated alloy wheels in 16- and 17-inch sizes . Moving to the rear, we see that the taillights are now horizontal instead of the previous vertical design. The rest of the lines remain the same, although the color palette expands with the addition of new Águeda Yellow and Selenium Gray, and a black roof is available as an option.
Inside, the i-Cockpit has a new screen and the i-Connect Advanced system comes as an option...
Inside, there are also changes, although they are more subtle. Entry-level versions, such as the Active, retain the analog instrument cluster, which in the other trims is replaced by the new 10-inch i-Cockpit . Its 3D design has been updated with more customization options, and in front of it sits the small steering wheel with the new logo. The central touchscreen display is now 10 inches in all versions across the range, even the entry-level models.
This display comes to life thanks to the updated i-Connect infotainment system with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional i-Connect Advanced system includes TomTom connected navigation and voice recognition with the "OK Peugeot" command. Depending on the trim level, it also features up to three USB-C ports and one USB-A port, as well as a 15 kW wireless charger and a 360-degree camera.
Safety is another area that has been revised, including new standard active driving aids. The 208 now features adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go function , extended traffic sign recognition, blind spot warning, driver attention alert, active lane keeping assist , and autonomous emergency braking. The trunk remains unchanged at a respectable 309 liters.
The mechanical offer is enriched with two Mild Hybrid options and the electric e-208 that is more powerful...
The updated Peugeot 208's powertrain lineup has also been refreshed. The gasoline range now includes the new 1.2 PureTech Mild Hybrid 48-volt engine, available with 100 hp and 136 hp respectively. This engine is managed by the new six-speed e-DSC6 dual-clutch electrified automatic transmission. However, the range will also retain two gasoline engine options without any electrification.
This is the 1.2 PureTech engine, available in two power levels: 75 hp and 100 hp . Both are three-cylinder engines, the former naturally aspirated and the latter turbocharged. The 75 hp version has a five-speed manual transmission, while the 100 hp version has a six-speed manual. However, the star of the show is the electric version, which was updated a few months ago when Stellantis refreshed its powertrain with a new version.
The Peugeot e-208 now features a 115 kW (156 hp) electric motor with 260 Nm of torque . Its energy needs are met by a new 51 kWh battery that provides a range of approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles) according to the WLTP standard. Three charging options are available: 100 kW DC fast charging (20%–80% charge in 25 minutes), 7,4 kW AC charging (4 hours and 40 minutes), and optional 11 kW three-phase charging.
When will the new 208 hit the market…?
Sales of the updated Peugeot 208 will begin imminently, with three trim levels : Active , Allure , and GT, as is the case with other models from the brand. The mid-range Allure is the most balanced version, adding features such as the i-Cockpit with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster. The GT is the sportiest, with gloss black wheel arches and a GT badge on the trunk lid.
Source – Peugeot
