What's the news?
Peugeot Ireland has launched its most important car in a while, the all-new 208 hatchback. Demonstrators are in every dealership in the country and prices start at €14,495.
Exterior
Though the five-door car is likely to take the lion's share (ahem...) of sales, Peugeot will offer the new 208 in three-door guise as well. It looks a little sportier, but does lose out in terms of access to the rear seats. Overall the 208 is 70mm shorter than the car it replace (unusually), while also being 10mm lower. Lots of reference to the Peugeot 205 has been made in the launch of this car, though the only visual link between the two is a new stylised flourish at the rear of the side window line - it's similar in shape to the plastic inserts the 205 had in its C-pillars.
Interior
Despite the reduction in size, Peugeot claims that the 208 has more rear knee room and 15 litres more boot space than the 207. The big talking point though is a new driving position 'concept', which features a noticeably tiny steering wheel and instruments located up high. Instead of looking through the wheel you look over the top of it.
Mechanicals
All engine variants offered at launch sit in Band A for tax. Though Peugeot has traditionally been very strong on diesel in this segment the sector is dominated by petrol-fuelled cars and to compete Peugeot has added two efficient new engines of 1.0- and 1.2-litre capacities, putting out 70- and 83hp respectively. A 1.4-litre HDi diesel with 69hp will be offered in two guises with emissions as low as 87g/km.
Anything else?
Three specifications are offered. The majority of buyers in this market sector currently opt for the entry-level model and Peugeot's 208 Access features ESP, cruise control, electric front windows, aux-in connectivity and remote audio controls. The mid-level Active version is well worth the €1,700 premium as it adds a 7-inch colour touch-screen infotainment system, Bluetooth, USB connection, 15-inch alloys, air conditioning and front fog lights.
The top spec Allure model features LED daytime running lights, a leather trimmed steering wheel, auto lights and wipers and 16-inch rims.
All versions come with a full-size spare wheel.
Read our First Drive of the new Peugeot 208 from the international launch in April 2012