Review: Peugeot e-208
Electric Peugeot 208 Review
Peugeot’s line-up is now more electrified than ever. It has put into place measures which have seen the French firm’s entire range made available with some form of electric assistance, be that hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full electric. Its smallest electric vehicle - the e-208 - has always managed to pack in loads of character as well as plenty of technology, but Peugeot has just updated to ensure things remain fresh.
The EV segment has widened considerably in recent years, however, so what can these updates do to keep the Peugeot e-208 leading the charge? We’ve been finding out.
What’s new?
Okay, so from the outside at least the changes to this new e-208 seem quite minimal. Sit it alongside its predecessor and the pair are very similar, though this new version’s lighting signature has been updated to include Peugeot’s ‘three-claw’ design, while two new colours have been added to this hatch’s range of available shades. The Agueda Yellow shown in these images is particularly striking.
Inside, you’ll find more standard technology than before. Previously, the 10-inch infotainment screen was only fitted to high-end models from the off, but now it’s included in all versions.
What’s under the bonnet?
What’s under the bonnet?
You’re able to get the new e-208 in two different setups. The entry-level version brings the same 50kWh battery that you would’ve found on the old e-208, while a slightly larger 51kWh version delivers up to 248 miles - considerably more than the 225 miles you’ll get from the standard version.
There’s a more potent electric motor as well, here bringing 154bhp instead of 134bhp. It may not be a monumental shift in performance, but the added range is no doubt useful. When it comes to charging, a full top-up will take seven-and-a-half hours if you’re using a standard 7kW home wallbox, or just 30 minutes if you connect to a rapid 100kW unit.
What’s the Peugeot e-208 like to drive?
Unlike many of the latest electric vehicles, the e-208 doesn’t weigh in with loads of power and a scarily quick 0-60mph time. Instead, it’s a lighter and more nimble affair and while there’s still a good amount of zip away from the line, it’s not unmanageable. The steering is light, too, which really helps when you’re driving around town.
Peugeot hasn’t gone down the route of adding any sci-fi-inspired noises inside, either, so it does feel quite ‘normal’ during usual driving. The e-208’s compact dimensions make it ideal for nipping in and out of traffic, too, while parking is a breeze both because of the car’s small size and also due to its cameras and sensors.
How does it look?
As we’ve touched upon, Peugeot hasn’t gone to town when it comes to restyling the e-208. However, it has been pleasantly tweaked in a number of areas to ensure that it’s still just as sharp as ever. The e-208’s design was never a sticking point with this car, in truth, so it’s nice to see that Peugeot has just refined things rather than changing them entirely.
There are some neat ‘E’ badges on the C-pillar which help to differentiate this electric 208 from its petrol-powered stablemates, which standard-fit LED headlights give this smaller Peugeot a lot of presence and also help to provide lots of illumination at night.
What’s Peugeot e-208 like inside?
There’s been a consistent push upmarket from Peugeot in its latest cars and that’s something which is evident in the e-208’s cabin. There are lots of pleasant materials throughout and, when combined with the variety of screens and displays, makes for an interior which feels both well-made and futuristic.
This isn’t a large car, of course, so you can’t expect acres of interior space. However, those sitting up front have a nice clear view of the road ahead and a decent area to stretch out - it’s just rear-seat occupants that’ll feel a little snug. Boot space is respectable, however, standing at 309 litres as standard, or 1,118 litres if you fold down the rear seats.
What’s the spec like?
There’s plenty of equipment on board the e-208. All cars get plenty of standard features, including a leather-trimmed steering wheel and climate control, while parking sensors and Peugeot’s feature-packed i-Cockpit setup are both included from the off. It means you don’t have to fork out lots in order to get the best levels of equipment.
That said, if you fancy a few more luxuries than range-topping GT specification adds 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, lots of gloss black detailing and aluminium pedals.
Peugeot e-208 Verdict
The e-208 feels like a car designed for drivers new to the electric vehicle scene. It’s easy to get along with, delivers a more ‘normal’ driving experience than its rivals and does this while bringing plenty of in-car equipment and features. A decent boot means it’ll be easy to live with, too.
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