By Otsile Kadiege

The all-new, multi-award winning Peugeot 208 has landed in Mzansi and it’s ready to take on its established rival – the Volkswagen Polo and the recently launched Opel Corsa of which it shares the same underpinnings.

Looks

It boasts a bold, attractive and assertive redesign, similar to its 2008 SUV sibling, which lends the Peugeot 208 a sharper identity and even more visual impact, showing off its chic and sporty contours. The compact proportions of the 208 look modern and dynamic, while elaborate touches like sculpted sides create a car packed with personality and sophisticated style.

Up front, the 208 features a new front-bumper with a fully-integrated grille flanked by two-tone head lamps (full-LED in GT trim) and fang-like daytime running lights. There are three different wheel sizes available which are trim level dependent, namely 15, 16 and 17-inch wheels. The 208 with GT trim features black mirror caps, black wheel arches whilst the rear-end gets LED 3 claw effect lights, striking black band detailing and depending on the chosen version it also features two spoilers for better performance and efficiency.

The 208 palette offers a fresh choice of stylish finishes, including solid, metallic, and pearlescent, allowing customers to give their cars an individual touch.

Interior

Aboard the 208, drivers are greeted by the 3^rd generation Peugeot i-Cockpit, with its compact steering wheel, the world`s first production 3D-Digital heads-up instrument panel and a touch screen up to 10-inches with an infotainment system featuring Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and enhanced comfort and visual appeal.

Power, pricing and safety

Powering the Peugeot 208 range is the state-of-the-art PureTech 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engines in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged formats. Here are the different model derivatives, the power they produce and pricing:

• Active 1.2l naturally aspirated – 55kW R289,900  
• Allure 1.2l turbocharged MT – 74kW R349,900
• Allure 1.2l turbocharged AT – 96kW R379,900
• GT 1.2l turbocharged AT – 96kW R424,900

The 208 is equipped with the latest advanced driving aids like Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Alert, Automatic Switching Headlights, Hill Start Assist, Active Safety Brake and Visio Park 1.