2019 Peugeot 208 brings more style to superminis

Superminis have always been considered as a practical city slicker with no panache. But the new 2019 Peugeot 208 may change that with its handsome styling.

Tracing the lines of the bigger 508 sedan, the 208’s front fascia is unlike any other hatchback on the market. The full LED headlights along with the brand’s signature tiger claw motif elevates the look of the little hatchback. The model name adorns the front, right above the lion logo. Wheels as big as 17-inch are available.

Based on the new Common Modular Platform, the 2019 Peugeot 308 is about 30 kilos lighter as well.

The handsome styling is carried over to the inside as well. The brand’s i-Cockpit makes it look upscale. The infotainment screen comes in sizes of 5, 7 and 10-inches. Very less physical buttons are available as most of the functions are now controlled by the touchscreen. The flat bottom steering wheel gives it a sporty appeal, so does the faux carbon fiber and gloss black accents.

Powering the little 208 is either a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine or a 1.5-liter diesel engine. The petrol is offered in the different versions with 75 hp, 100 hp and 130 hp. The 75 hp model is offered exclusively with a five-speed manual transmission and the range topping 130 hp model gets only a six-speed automatic. The 100 hp variant can be fitted with either of them. The diesel churns out 100 hp through the six-speed automatic box.

There is a fully electric version as well, with 136 hp and 260 Nm. The e-208, as it’s called can sprint from 0 to 100 kph in 8.1 seconds when the Sport mode is selected. There are normal and Eco modes as well for regular usage. The 50-kWh battery gives the e-208 a decent range of 450 km in the NEDC cycle.

Expect the new model to come to the UAE and GCC by the end of the year.