Overview

Peugeot has been selling two-oh-something models since the hugely successful 201 in the 1920s and ’30s, and with each generation has come a new model of small hatchback, until that progression halted with the previous 208. This tactic has rewarded Peugeot with plentiful sales for the current 208, no doubt assisted by those eyecatching looks.

There are radical styling details inside and out, an eight-speed automatic transmission option, and the availability of petrol, diesel and electric models all under the same badge. We’ve covered the latter in a separate Peugeot e-208 review.

That means as well as the Volkswagen Polo that Peugeot says it’s targeting, the 208 competes with some very strong small-car rivals, such as the Ford Fiesta, the Renault Clio and SEAT Ibiza. But it could also find itself on the same shopping lists as electric-only models, like the excellent-value Renault Zoe, or the Peugeot’s sister car, the Vauxhall Corsa Electric. A tough crowd.

For those who want a petrol 208, the choices of power output are 75, 100 and 130hp. Performance differs far more than the fuel consumption, as you’ll see when you read on. The single diesel engine develops 100hp. As for gearboxes, there’s a mix of five- and six-speed manual gearboxes and the aforementioned eight-speed auto.

There are a number of trims to pick from, kicking off with Active and moving up to Active Premium, Allure, Allure Premium, and GT Line. Even the entry-level models come well stocked with equipment such as air conditioning, alloy wheels and cruise control. In this respect, at least, it’s a small, but grown-up car.

So, there’s a decent choice in the Peugeot 208 range and plenty of scope for personalisation, too. The big question is whether it deserves your attention if you’re in the market for a small car.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the Peugeot 208 including its practicality, its interior, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.