2013 Peugeot 208 1.0 VTi review

This 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol is the smallest engine available in the Peugeot 208 at the moment. There are versions in the supermini’s range that emit less CO2, but they are all diesels and cost significantly more up front.

With CO2 emissions of 99g/km, a claimed combined fuel economy of 65.7mpg and a starting price of £9995, this is the engine that will look most appealing on paper to those mindful of running costs.

What’s the 2013 Peugeot 208 1.0 VTi like to drive?
In order to offer an enticing set of economy figures, the small 1.0-litre engine inevitably has to make a few compromises. The 0-62mph acceleration takes a ponderous 15.9 seconds, and there is not much in the way of zip even at lower speeds, meaning overtaking has to be planned.

There is a noticeable thrum from the three-cylinder engine, which has to work hard at speed, but it doesn't sound as pleasant as the 1.2-litre petrol engine. It settles down when it is cruising, though.

The steering is light around town, making the 208 easy to manoeuvre, but the ride is crashy and somewhat uncomfortable over bumpier surfaces. The light clutch, with its high-set biting point, takes mastering in order to drive smoothly.



What’s the 2013 Peugeot 208 1.0 VTi like inside?
Our test car was a mid-spec Active model, which misses out on some of the chrome detailing of higher models, but still has a well-equipped and attractive interior.



The touch-screen entertainment system is well specified – the radio and Bluetooth and USB connections are all controlled through it – but it’s decidedly fiddly to use. You have to drag your finger across the screen to perform certain tasks, which is hard to do accurately on the move.



The biggest gripe, though, is the driving position. Drivers of most heights have to view the instruments over the wheel rather than through it, meaning many drivers have to settle for a less-than-ideal seating position.



Space in the front is good, and rear legroom is adequate for the class, but rear headroom is tight. The boot is a good size and shape, and even Active trim and above gets you handy split-folding rear seats.

Should I buy one?
The new 1.0-litre engine manages its 99g/km CO2 without stop-start, which keeps the price down to below £10,000 if you settle for entry-level Access trim. That makes the 208 significantly cheaper than an equivalent Ford Fiesta or Renault Clio.

The downside of this engine is it’s noticeably noisier and more rattly than others in the range, and is fairly sluggish. However, a low list price and attractive running bills will be adequate compensation in the eyes of many buyers.

What Car? says…


Rivals:
Ford Fiesta
Renault Clio

Read the full Peugeot 208 review >>

Specification
Engine size 1.0 petrol
Price from £9995
Power 68bhp
Torque 70lb ft
0-62mph 15.9sec
Top speed 101mph
Fuel economy 65.7mpg
CO2 g/km 99g/km

By Tom Webster