After announcing the plans of entry into the Indian car market, Peugeot finally sealed the deal with the Gujarat chief minister to set up a 4000 Cr plant. Since then, many 207 hatchbacks and 508 sedans have been spotted testing on the Indian streets. It is quite clear that Peugeot has plans to launch a hatchback in an already crowded segment in India. But news comes in from international automotive press that Peugeot has revealed the successor to the 207, aptly named 208.
The new 208 forgoes the old design language in favor of the new one previewed on the 508. The key design characteristics of this language include a floating grille, stretched back headlamps and boomerang style tail lamps.
It will be offered in 2 body styles – 3 door and 5 door. Unlike most successor models, the 208 has actually been shortened 3 inches and made lighter by another 245 pounds. According to Peugeot, the smaller exterior dimensions do not have a negative impact on interior space because of carefully designed ergonomics. The 208 offers 50mm more knee space for rear passengers and 15 liters more boot space.
Just like the exterior design, the interior has been redesigned from the grounds up. It now features a reach-and-height adjustable steering wheel and an elevated instrument binnacle with the touch screen that infotainment.
The 208 will be powered by a pair of three-cylinder VVT petrol and diesel engines of 1.0 and 1.2 liters. An auto stop and start system will make sure that you are not wasting fuel when idling at the traffic light thus increasing fuel efficiency.
This does beg the question – Why is Peugeot testing the older 207 model in India? As Peugeot will launch the 508 sedan in India first, 207 will be obsolete by the time it is launched in India. Is Peugeot testing the 207 to just gather information about the road and environment conditions?
