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Peugeot downsizes with new 208

<b>PETITE PUG:</b> The 208's design follows Peugeot's current language, but loses none of the 2 Series' traditional spunkiness.
<b>PETITE PUG:</b> The 208's design follows Peugeot's current language, but loses none of the 2 Series' traditional spunkiness.
Peugeot’s all-new B-segment car – the 208 – will arrive in South Africa in 2012. Here’s what you can look forward to.

The French star hatchback has been subjected to “the most ambitious specification overhaul yet undertaken" by the French brand to create a whole new identity for Peugeot’s hero.

The 208 gives compact form to Peugeot’s current design language with its “floating” grille and switchback tail lights.

CLEANER EXHAUST


The interior promises to be as innovative with, Peugeot says, instruments and controls that have been completely redesigned to be more intuitive. The core is consists of a small steering wheel, Peugeot’s head-up display and a large touchscreen that manage the occupants’ comfort as well as the driver’s interaction with the car.

Peugeot

DRIVE BY TOUCH: A smaller steering wheel and large touchscreen are two of Peugeot's highlights in the 208's cabin.

State-of-the-art engine technology and the use of Peugeot’s e-HDI micro-hybridation (or stop/start system) on most models ensures lower CO2 emissions – 34g/km less, on average – and fuel consumption than the 207.

A new range of three-cylinder one and 1.2-litre petrol engines will be introduced in the 208, although these are unlikely to make their way to South Africa.

SMALLER THAN 207


Bucking the latest generation trend, the 208 is more compact than its predecessor. Seven centimetres have been shaved off its overall length and a centimetre off its height, although a longer wheelbase ensures more generous space for rear passengers (who gain five centimetres of kneeroom) and a bigger boot. The 208 is, on average, also 110kg lighter than the 207.

Other innovative technology includes the incorporation of 25% of recycled materials in the 208’s manufacture. The rear bumper and fan assembly are made entirely of such materials, something Peugeot claims as a world first. The company says the bumper alone will save its manufacturing process as much as 1600 tonnes of fuel a year.

We expect more detail before the five-door model is launched in South Africa during the second half of 2012.
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