2012 Peugeot 208 Unveiled For The First Time

Peugeot has unveiled the 208 hatchback in both three-door and five-door forms, promising a B-segment car that “represents a true generation leap” when it arrives in Europe in the second quarter of 2012. Peugeot claims to have gone back to basics, imbuing the 208 with dynamics that will shine next to its most revered predecessor's, the 205.

The end product is a car that is lighter and more compact than its much-criticised immediate predecessor, the 207; on average 110 kg lighter to be exact, accompanied by a length shorter by 7cm and a height lower by 1cm. The wheelbase remains the same, though enhanced packaging has created 5cm more rear room at the knees and 15 litres more luggage capacity.

The cabin has been injected with a dose of style, quality and user-friendliness, now boasting higher-quality materials, a more intuitive layout, an elevated instrument panel, a large central touch screen, and a sporty small steering wheel.

Outside, the 208 appears more interesting than the mundane-looking 207, showing off more sculpted surfaces, Peugeot's new signature “floating” grille, and distinctive—if not especially attractive—head- and tail-lights. Moreover, the 208 is one with serious environmental credentials as 25 percent of the plastics used on it are either recycled or of natural origin.

Available from launch are a range of green engines: two three-cylinder petrol engines, a 1.0-litre VTi and a 1.2-litre VTi, offering a fuel economy as high as 23.3 km/litre and carbon emissions as low as 99 grams/km. Four out of the five diesel engines will be equipped with a new-generation e-HDi Stop & Start System. The most efficient diesel returns an astonishing 29.4 km/litre in economy and releases just 87 grams/km of emissions. Enjoy the 2012 Peugeot 208 official gallery below!