Peugeot 208 versus its rivals – how does it compare?

We know that the New Peugeot 208 is not only the most desirable small car in the UK but also the most frugal (as highlighted by Auto Express recently). You can choose to fit this fabulous small car with either an award winning PureTech petrol engine or an industry beating BlueHDi unit. Either way, you’re fuel bills will be at an all time low. However we understand that our customers want to know how the competition stacks up and so Charters are happy to compare statistics of its main rivals to save you discovering all of the information yourself.

All of the models listed below are the lowest specification choices. Many drivers choose to opt for at least the mid range trim level to include features such as Touchscreen technology but since we’re focussing on pure economy, we’re detailing the basic trim level from all manufacturers. Please note that all vehicles listed have a five start EuroNCAP rating and have ISOFIX points for car seats. Let the battle begin:

Alternatives to Peugeot 208: Volkswagen Polo

With Volkswagen currently reeling from its embarrassing fall from grace, it is important to note that the VW Polo is still tempting choice for some. With an on-the-road price of £11,300  and emissions at 106 g/km, the Polo seems to offer value for money. However, with a small price comes a surprisingly small specification list with their own site detailing: Bluetooth, a braking assistance system (to avoid low speed collisions) and front electric windows. Customers know when to worry when airbags are listed as a feature! Economy is certainly reasonable with claimed combined figures of 60.1mpg for a combined journey.  All in all, the Volkswagen Polo would be a tempting choice, if it wasn’t for the current cloud of doubt put into consumers thanks to recent events. A small specification list and economy figures that don’t quite match up to the Peugeot 208, explains why so many choose the 208 over the Polo.

Alternatives to Peugeot 208: Renault Clio

The basic trim level Renault Clio is named the Expression and comes in at £11,145 on-the-road (208 is priced at £11,695). Whilst the saving might be clear for some, the year-on-year fuel economy is likely to save you thousands in the long run. The Renault Clio Expression is fitted with a 1.2 litre engine which has carbon emissions of 127g/km (compared to the 208’s low: 102g/km). This unit also provides a rather disappointing 51.4mpg on a combined cycle. We know we are biased in this article, but these statistics can be found in Renault’s official Clio brochure – can we help it if the Peugeot 208 beats it in almost every conceivable way? If you need reminding, the Peugeot 208 is fitted with a 1.0 PureTech petrol 68 engine which can manage up to 64.2 mpg on a combined cycle and up to 72.4mpg on an extra-urban one.

Alternatives to Peugeot 208: Honda Jazz

Whilst the Clio, Polo and 208 all start within the £11,000-£12,000 range, the Honda Jazz  S is priced from £13,495 and with it, you would expect a whole host of features. Sadly, unless you count Cruise control (standard on all other vehicles listed here), Stop & Start engine (which the 208 is fitted with) and “magic seats”, the list isn’t too exciting. “Magic seats” refer to fold down seating – something we’re sure you’ll agree is not worth a £2,000 premium on its competitors.  Carbon emissions for the Honda Jazz come in at 116 g/km and fuel economy is 56.5mpg on a combined cycle.

Peugeot 208 versus its rivals. Which is best for you?

As always, it’s all about personal choice.

Some people choose a vehicle on their colour range (incidentally the 208 has a staggering 13 colour variations and a choice of 9 interiors, depending on your trim level).

Some people choose their vehicle based on its green credentials (the 208 is head and shoulders above these alternatives with up to a staggering 72.4mpg and 102 g/km of carbon emissions).

Some may even choose their vehicle based upon extra features: panoramic roof, DAB digital radio, touchscreen technology, Air Conditioning as fitted standard. The 208 fulfils all of these.

When considering a new (or indeed used) car, it’s certainly important to wonder about the alternatives in the range. With the new Peugeot 208, you don’t have to.

Test drive the Peugeot 208 today at Charters

Call us on 01252 939 307

*Data has been collated from official websites, downloadable brochures and are correct at time of writing. If any of these details are incorrect, we urge you to let us know.