Peugeot has released further technical and specification details for its all-new 208 supermini, set to challenge the Ford Fiesta's reign with a new platform, engines and tech, plus an all-electric e-208 option offered across all trim levels.
The 208 range comprises four familiar trim levels of Active, Allure, GT Line and GT, with a choice of three petrol engines, one diesel or a fully electric set-up.
Standard kit across the range, starting with Active trim includes alloy wheels (steel wheels for the e-208), Active Safety Brake with pedestrian detection, electric and heated door mirrors and LED daytime running lights. The e-208 in Active trim also features pre-heating functionality and automatic air conditioning.
Allure models benefit from faux leather seat trim, 3D i-Cockpit with a configurable 3D head-up instrument panel and ‘claw effect’ LED rear-lights.
GT Line models feature front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, 17-inch wheels, eight-colour ambient interior lighting and LED headlights.
Only the e-208 is offered in GT spec which features automated parking assistance, adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go Alcantara trim, heated front seats, and 3D i-Cockpit with a larger 10-inch touchscreen.
The second-generation 208 is built on the PSA Group’s new CMP platform for B and C-segment cars, shared with the Vauxhall Corsa and DS 3 Crossback, among many other PSA group models. The platform itself sheds 30kg over the underpinnings of the previous generation model but, more importantly, it supports a battery electric powertrain which can be integrated on the same production line as the petrol and diesel variants of the 208 with little disruption.
Design-wise, the new 208 is as far removed from its predecessor as can be, adopting the same design language as the new 508. The front is defined by the pair of large LED fangs hanging off the new headlights, and overall the new model receives a much sportier looking body kit than before.
GT Line cars get flared black wheel arches – a little homage to the 205 GTI there – plus a large black spoiler on the hatch-lid. Every car boasts the new, distinctive rear end too, making use of a gloss black insert spanning the width of the tailgate.
It’s a similar story in the cabin, as the 208 features a completely overhauled interior which is a far more digitalised environment than before. Some more recent Peugeot interior design elements, such as the liberal use of piano black plastics and the ‘piano key’ style switchgear, are prominent on the centre console.
The brand’s i-Cockpit dashboard layout is still used, with a fully digital instrument panel available on high-end versions of the new 208. However, the digital dashboard is a brand new development as yet unseen on any other Peugeot. The brand calls it 3D i-Cockpit, and it uses clever reflection to create the impression of three-dimensional graphics.
Sitting atop the dashboard is a floating touchscreen display. On standard 208s, it’ll measure seven-inches in size, with a ten-inch display featuring Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and built-in navigation on higher-spec cars.
Under the bonnet, Peugeot has confirmed five powertrain choices from launch. The base petrol offering is the PureTech 75. It’s a three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol engine developing 74hp, which sends its power to the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.
The turbocharged PureTech 100 takes power up to 99hp and adds an extra ratio to the transmission with a six-speed manual as standard. Peugeot’s EAT8 eight-speed automatic is optional here, with paddle shifters mounted on the back of the steering wheel. Step up another level and the 128hp PureTech 130 features the eight-speed automatic transmission as standard.
Diesel is a declining choice in superminis, but the new 208 launches with a single BlueHDi option. The 99hp, 1.5-litre four-cylinder motor is linked to a six-speed manual gearbox only. No performance, fuel economy or CO2 figures have been issued, but the new car will be homologated under WLTP rules.
The biggest drivetrain news for the new 208 is the battery-electric e-208 option, which will be available from launch. The fully-electric variant of the supermini uses the e-CMP variant of the new CMP platform and is capable of 211 miles on a single charge (80% in 30mins), with the front axle powered by a 134hp electric motor.
To register your interest in leasing the new 2020 Peugeot 208, please call our friendly and helpful sales team on 0161 826 9716.
