Vehicle Overview
The Peugeot 208, first launched in 2012, is one of Europe’s most stylish and popular supermini hatchbacks. The current second generation (introduced in 2019, facelifted in 2023) builds on its chic French design and offers petrol, mild-hybrid, and full-electric (E-208) powertrains.
Compact yet premium, the 208 targets urban drivers who value design flair, efficiency, and technology in an easy-to-park package. Competing with the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Clio, it’s a standout blend of style and substance in the small hatchback class.
Key Specifications (2025 Peugeot 208 GT Hybrid 136)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 1.2L 3-cylinder turbo petrol + 48V mild-hybrid |
| Power Output | 136 hp (100 kW) |
| Torque | 230 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | 8.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph (210 km/h) |
| Fuel Economy (WLTP) | 56–60 mpg |
| CO₂ Emissions | ~104 g/km |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,055 mm / 1,745 mm / 1,430 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 311 litres (petrol) / 265 L (EV) |
Exterior Design
The 208’s design is one of its biggest strengths. The facelifted 2024 model gains sharper LED lighting, a new triple-claw signature, and a revised front grille with Peugeot’s latest shield emblem. The sculpted body lines, floating roof, and bold color palette (including Agueda Yellow and Selenium Grey) give it strong curb appeal.
Even base trims look premium, while the GT trim adds gloss-black details, 17-inch alloys, and matrix LED headlamps. Compact yet expressive, the 208 stands out in traffic like few other superminis.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Peugeot’s signature i-Cockpit layout dominates the interior, with its small steering wheel, raised 3D digital instrument cluster, and 10-inch touchscreen angled toward the driver.
Cabin quality feels upmarket, with soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and textured seat fabrics that wouldn’t feel out of place in a larger car. Front seats are supportive, and the driving position (once you adjust to the small wheel) feels sporty and engaging.
Space in the back is tighter, typical for the class, but it’s fine for children or short trips. The 311-litre boot is competitive and practical for daily urban life.
Features & Infotainment
The latest Peugeot i-Connect system (introduced in 2024) greatly improves usability and performance.
10-inch HD touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
3D digital driver’s display (GT trim)
Wireless charging pad
Four USB ports (A & C)
Voice control ("OK Peugeot")
Higher trims include navigation, keyless entry, climate control, and adaptive cruise control. The system is intuitive and stylish, enhancing the tech appeal of this compact hatch.
Safety & Ratings
The Peugeot 208 holds a 4-star Euro NCAP safety rating, with strong occupant protection and advanced driver assistance on higher trims.
Standard or available features include
Active Safety Brake (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Lane Keep Assist
Traffic Sign Recognition
Blind Spot Monitoring
Driver Attention Alert
Rear Parking Sensors / 180° camera
While not class-leading, safety performance is solid for a small hatch.
Driving Performance
The Hybrid 136 variant offers an ideal balance between efficiency and fun. The small turbocharged engine, paired with the 48V mild-hybrid system, provides smooth low-end torque and seamless stop-start operation.
Ride quality is supple for its size, soaking up city bumps with ease, while steering remains light and precise. Around corners, the 208 feels agile and composed — its compact dimensions make it perfect for urban driving yet stable on motorways.
The E-208 offers instant EV torque and whisper-quiet acceleration, though it adds extra weight that slightly softens handling.
Fuel Efficiency / EV Range
208 Hybrid 136: 56–60 mpg (WLTP)
208 PureTech 100 (Petrol): ~52 mpg (WLTP)
| E-208 (51 kWh) | Up to 254 miles (WLTP), 100 kW DC charging (20–80% in 25 mins) |
Whichever powertrain you pick, the 208 delivers excellent running efficiency for its class.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
The 208 fits urban life perfectly
| Boot space | 311 L (petrol) / 265 L (EV) |
Tight 10.4 m turning circle
Easy parking with sensors and 180° camera
Plenty of cubbies and door bins for storage
Rear room is modest, but the cabin’s clever ergonomics make it easy to live with daily. Noise insulation is impressive for a car of this size, making motorway trips comfortable too.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty | 3 years / 60,000 miles |
| EV battery warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Service intervals | Every 12 months or 10,000 miles |
Peugeot offers affordable maintenance plans and competitive EV servicing costs, making ownership simple and predictable.
Price & Value for Money
| Trim | Powertrain | Starting Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Active | 1.2 PureTech 75 | ~£21,000 |
| Allure | 1.2 Hybrid 100 | ~£23,500 |
| GT | 1.2 Hybrid 136 | ~£26,000 |
| E-208 GT | 51 kWh EV | ~£30,500 |
Given its premium design and equipment, the 208 is competitively priced. The Hybrid 136 GT variant offers the best balance between performance, economy, and value.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Efficiency / Range | Boot | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peugeot 208 Hybrid 136 | Mild-Hybrid | 60 mpg | 311 L | £26k |
| Renault Clio E-Tech | Full Hybrid | 64 mpg | 301 L | £24.5k |
| Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI | Petrol | 52 mpg | 351 L | £23k |
| Mini Cooper Electric | BEV | 250 mi | 210 L | £31k |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Striking exterior and premium interior design
Efficient and smooth hybrid system
Excellent infotainment and features
Refined, comfortable urban drive
Cons
Rear seat space is tight
Boot smaller in EV variant
Slightly higher price than entry rivals
⭐ Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4 / 5)
Final Verdict
The 2025 Peugeot 208 combines French flair, efficient powertrains, and premium comfort in a compact, city-friendly hatchback. Its hybrid technology improves both efficiency and performance, while the E-208 brings quiet, zero-emission motoring for urban users.
| Perfect for | young professionals, city commuters, and small families seeking a stylish, efficient, and well-equipped supermini. |
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The 208 is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the 208 good for UK roads?
Should I buy new or used?
What should I check before ordering?
Is it suitable for families?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.