Driven | Peugeot 208 Allure 1.2T

Quick Facts:

Price: R365 900Engine: 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engineTransmission: six-speed manualPower/Torque: 74kW/205NmFuel Consumption: 5.8L/100km (claimed)

We’ve been spending time with the Peugeot 208 in its Allure guise. Powered by a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine, the power plant produces 74kW/ in our test unit is good for 74kW & 205nm of torque mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. In terms of looks, the new 208 is arguably the most stylish hatchback on the market. It arrives with a striking design, new engine options as well as a plethora of safety and technological features. ?

On the exterior, a new wider grille that’s interstates into the bodywork, fang-like daytime running lights which we are familiar with from the French marquee, as well as various wheel options. The rear then receives claw-like LED taillights as well as a stylish boot spoiler. ?

Inside, the 208 is equipped with the third generation i-cockpit with a 3D digital driver display while the infotainment screen comes in the form of a 7-inch touchscreen with screen mirroring abilities. Our main issue is the lack of buttons, meaning that most of the functions are accessed by touching the screen which tends to be distracting when you’re on the move. The multi-functional steering wheel (should we call it that) takes quite a bit of getting used to, but if you’ve driven other Peugeot products, it should be a walk in the park to use. ?

The synthetic leather and cloths seats are cosy & supportive, while the synthetic leather continues on the dashboard, it feels solid and premium in the little hatch. Other cool things to note are the carbon fibre inspired door inlays that also light up at night. Besides being Really cramped inside, the interior is a great place to be in, however, we struggled to fit 4 adults comfortably. ???

In terms of the drive, the Peugeot 208 pushes above its weight. While most of the segment has gone completely automatic, our test unit the Allure came in manual transmission and it was a sweet drive. A light clutch, as well as gear changes, ensures that the model is easy to pilot. With power coming in at 74KW, in terms of performance, it feels brisk in urban traffic and can easily overtake when needed to. The steering response is positive and does not feel light however the position of the steering wheel does not seem to work on this manual model where the third pedal is involved. Especially for tall people and that is the one main issue we had.

?Safety

??Traffic sign recognition, driver attention alert, lane-keeping assist, automatic headlights, hill start assist, active safety brake and a 180-degree rear camera and park assist sensors. ?ESP stability control, tyre pressure monitor and six airbags.

?Overall, the Peugeot 208 makes for an exciting alternative in the hatchback segment. Looks, price as well as the overall package makes for a bargain. The ride refinement, handling comfort and fuel economy also impress. However, it’s not practical at all. It’s a little package and compared to segment rivals, it’s not that spacious, however, not everyone wants practicality and we understand that. Kudos to Peugeot on yet another great model. ?

Pricing

Peugeot 208 Active – R289 900Peugeot 208 Allure MT – R349 900 - Model testedPeugeot 208 Allure AT – R379 900Peugeot 208 GT – R424 900

The Peugeot 208 is sold with Peugeot’s 5-year/100 000km warranty and a 3-year/60 000 km service plan.