The popular Peugeot 208 has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, including the addition of two new hybrid powertrains, an enhanced exterior design, and various interior improvements.
The new hybrid options, which are also available in the facelifted Vauxhall Corsa, combine 99bhp and 134bhp petrol engines with a six-speed automatic gearbox that features an integrated 48V electric motor. This electrification results in a torque boost at low revs and a 15% increase in fuel efficiency. Peugeot claims that these hybrids operate in pure-electric mode for more than 50% of the time in urban environments.
The existing 74bhp and 99bhp petrol engines remain in the lineup, paired with a five-speed manual and a six-speed manual respectively. However, the 100bhp diesel engine has been discontinued.
The electric variant of the Peugeot 208, known as the e-208, now comes with a new 154bhp motor and a larger 51kWh battery, providing a range of 248 miles on a single charge. Peugeot asserts that the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in less than 25 minutes using a 100kW charger.
The exterior design of the Peugeot 208 has been updated to match the refreshed 508 and 2008 models. It features a more prominent tri-fang daytime running light signature, a wider front grille, and a rear light bar with three red ‘claws’ extending across the entire width of the boot.
Inside the car, a 10.0in touchscreen is now standard across all trim levels, although a high-definition panel is reserved for Allure and GT models. The distinctive i-Cockpit dashboard design remains, with a small, uniquely shaped steering wheel positioned below the instrument cluster.
A range of advanced driver assistance systems has been added to the Peugeot 208 to meet the new GSR2 safety standards set by the European Union. These include adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, lane-keeping assistance, and an optional 360-degree parking camera.
The Peugeot 208 is available in three trim levels: Active, Allure, and GT. The price of each trim level is expected to increase slightly. Currently, the 208 starts at £20,610 for the 1.2 Puretech Active and goes up to £34,845 for the e-208 GT.