Peugeot 208 1.2T Allure Test review

2020 European Car of the Year and now a finalist in #COTY2022 in SA.

The new 208 hatchback was launched very quietly in SA during 2021 and supply and stock shortages have resulted in it staying under the radar to a large extent on our market.

All that has changed suddenly with the nomination as a finalist for COTY and test cars have finally become available.

As a B-segment hatch, the 208 is the 2nd biggest seller in Europe but, sadly, this segment has been overtaken by Crossover/SUV's in SA in recent times. For buyers still looking for a hatchback the 208 comes loaded with features, looks and good performance.

Powered by the 1.2l 3 cylinder turbo motor that is used throughout the Stellantis group, it's tuned to produce 74kW and 205Nm in this version. Linked to a snappy 6 speed manual transmission driving the front wheels, it results in a car that can be driven with a touch of enthusiasm when the mood strikes. Take note that the gearshift contains metal parts and if the car is parked in the sun, this becomes extremely hot to the touch. I literally burnt my palm on the gear lever and found shifts difficult until the excellent air-con system had cooled the car down sufficiently.

Speaking of the climate control system, this is only operated and adjusted via the touchscreen, I always prefer actual controls and the excellent "piano-key" buttons below the touchscreen do not allow for this.

The small, squarish Peugeot steering wheel fits this purpose and the chassis is well sorted giving the ability to push on through a mountain pass or similar.

The exterior has many family cues to the rest of the Peugeot range. From the model name at the front of the bonnet, the sabre tooth daytime running lights at the front and the lion's claw rear lights are unmistakable with the bold lion logo front and rear as confirmation.

The car sits on 16" alloys to provide a sporty stance as well.

Although "only" the middle spec version, the Allure has many features included. Auto on headlights and wipers, full touchscreen infotainment system with reverse camera and Android Auto or Apple Carplay, climate control, combination leather and cloth trim, hill-hold assist and 6 airbags to name a few.

The seats are typically French in being plush and comfortable, possibly at the expense of a bit of rear legroom but this should not be a concern to young single or family buyers. I was happy to notice a full-size spare wheel under the boot board.

Even with a fair amount of enthusiastic driving, fuel economy over 400km was showing as 6.5l/100km, proving the efficiency of this little turbo motor. The fun factor is increased by the throaty roar the motor produces when pushed a bit.

The 208 range is priced from R302 900 for the Active through R365 900 as tested to R443 900 for the GT with automatic transmission. A 3 year/ 60 000km service plan is standard.

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