The all-new 2019 Peugeot 208 has just premiered
prior to its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. It’s sharp, bold, and has an unconventional but
appealing look, just like a small car filled to the brim with personality
should have.
The all-new Peugeot 208 is underpinned by the
company’s Common Modular Platform (CMP) and weighs 30 kg less than the
outgoing model. Alongside the weight savings, Peugeot says that the new
underpinnings contribute to a reduction in noise, vibration, and harshness
levels.
Powering the new 208 is a 1.2-liter turbocharged
petrol engine or if customers wish, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder diesel. The
1.2-liter petrol offers up 75 hp and is mated exclusively to a five-speed
manual transmission. The diesel delivers 100 hp and has a six-speed manual
gearbox. In the new future, Peugeot will introduce a 100 hp petrol model with a
six-speed manual or eight-speed auto and a range-topping 130 hp model sold
exclusively with the eight-speed.
In addition, the French manufacturer has developed
an all-electric version dubbed the e-208. This model uses a 50 kWh battery pack
and an electric motor to deliver a punchy 136 hp and 260 Nm of
torque, allowing for a 0-100 km/h time of 8.1 seconds. The 50 kWh
battery pack is installed under the floor and can power the Peugeot e-208 for
an impressive 340 km under the WLTP cycle. The electric 208
supports 100 kW rapid charging that can top up the battery to 80 per cent
capacity in just 30 minutes.
The new 208 clearly takes
after the 508. For example, the headlights feature similar diagonal strakes and
a tasteful grille. At the rear, there are tinted taillights. A host of wheel
options are also on offer depending on the trim levels.
The supermini also comes loaded with safety
technologies. These include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane
Positioning Assist, Full Park Assist, Automatic Emergency Brake Assist, Active
Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Monitoring, Speed Limit Recognition,
Active Blind Sport Monitoring, and Extended traffic sign recognition.
Found within the cabin of the new Peugeot 208 is the
automaker’s i-Cockpit infotainment system, a digital gauge cluster, faux carbon
fiber accents, and a small steering wheel just like the 508. Peugeot will start accepting
reservations for the new 208 from the end of March before the order books open
in late summer this year.