Peugeot reveals all-new 208 07 | 03 | 2012
PEUGEOUT UNVEILED ITS all-new 208 supermini at Geneva. Despite having the same wheelbase as the car it replaces, the Peugeot 207, the newcomer is lighter and sleeker. Peugeot bosses say the 208 represents the “most ambitious specification overhaul” it has made to a road car.
That reaction was prompted by strong criticism of its B-segment predecessor which was hampered by inert handling and high kerb weight.
No surprise then that the new 208 — which goes on sale in the Scotland in the summer in three- and five-door forms — in its lightest form, at 975kg, weighs 173kg less than the 207.
See more official photos of the all-new Peugeot 208
And while the wheelbase is identical, at 2540mm, the 208 is 70mm shorter than its forebear at 3960mm and around 10mm lower at 1492mm. Cleverly, despite the exterior being smaller, there's actually more space for occupants inside; and there's 15 litres more bootspace at 285 litres.
Thankfully, Peugeot is also promising big improvements in the cabin, with a new focus on high-quality materials and simple style.
In a bid to make the 208 more driver-focused, the French manufacturer have introduced a small steering wheel, elevated instrument panel and cabin control touch screen.
Peugeot's 2020 MPV vision
And there's a range of new more efficient powerplants. Out goes the 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines from the 207, and in comes new super-frugal 1.0 and 1.2 VTi units.
Peugeot claims the most efficient 1.0 variant will deliver 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 99g/km. Power outputs are expected to be between 75bhp and 100bhp.
It's no surprise though that the 208's strengths will lie in in its comprehensive range of diesels: five will be offered, some of which will be equipped with Peugeot’s frugal ‘micro-hybrid’ technology.
Four versions will be equipped with stop-start and the most efficient oilburner will return a whopping 83.1mpg and 87g/km. A performance GTi version will join the range towards the end of 2012.
Read our roadtest of the new Peugeot 508
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Jim McGill