The Peugeot 208 Revamped – How Does It Stack Up Against The Fiesta And Polo?

The ever-popular Peugeot 208 has had a makeover – creating a car that's smarter, more efficient, and ultra-stylish. State-of-the-art technology helps this next-generation city car to stand out from the crowd, along with its range of Euro 6 powertrains, fabulous new colour schemes, and sleek styling.

• But how does the revamped 208 compare against its main supermini rivals? Can it hold its own against the likes of the Ford Fiesta and the Volkswagen Polo? The class is one of the most competitive, and the facelifted Peugeot 208 will have its work cut out if it's to get one over on its sector rivals.

  Looks 

  There's certainly no denying that the new-look 208 has been through an impressive makeover. Sportier and more elegant than ever, it boasts assertive contours that give the car a more urgent feel, supported by the fully integrated grille and the redesigned front bumper. There's a range of exciting new colours to choose from too. LED daytime running lights, new rear LED light clusters and a choice of stylish alloys complete the look.

  With its large front grille and swept-back headlights, the Ford Fiesta certainly has a lively feel, accentuated by the striking contours that sweep across the bonnet. Like the 208 there's a range of appealing colours to choose between. The Polo has more restrained exterior styling, although like the 208 it offers the flexibility of three and five-door versions.     

  Technology

  Unsurprisingly, all three models have plenty of innovative technology on offer within the cabin. The new Peugeot 208 comes fitted with a multi-function colour touchscreen that provides the driver with easy and safe access to the vehicle's communications, audio and navigation equipment, which includes a DAB digital radio tuner.

  Likewise, the Fiesta is packed with advanced features including the Ford SYNC connectivity system, which allows you to select a music track from your device via USB or by streaming it from your mobile via Bluetooth. Making and receiving calls is simple too, and it's even possible to have your text messages read aloud. The Polo is available with DAB radio for crystal clear digital sound quality, plus a Multi-Device Interface, which offers quick access to your music collection. Volkswagen's Discover Navigation technology means you shouldn't have any issues getting to your destination on time.

  Safety

  When it comes to keeping you and your passengers safe, the 208 comes equipped with a wide range of features as standard, including ABS and ESP. There's also a system of six front, side, and curtain airbags, and you'll also have the reassurance of tyre pressure sensors. Depending on the trim chosen, advanced safety features include Active City Brake to help prevent low-speed collisions or at the very least, minimise damage. Parking sensors are available to help with maneuvering in tight spaces, as to is a reversing camera. 

  The Fiesta is available with Active City Stop to help prevent bumps and scrapes, plus a Deflation Detection System to monitor tyre pressures. Hill-start technology makes it safer and simpler to take off when you are stopped on an incline, while a system of airbags is ready to protect you and your passengers in the event of a crash.

  The Polo comes with a flat tyre indicator, plus a series of airbags to reduce the risk of injuries in the event of a collision. Crash active front headrests are fitted to help prevent whiplash, while the anti-lock braking system is there to provide maximum stopping power when it's needed most. A range of advanced safety systems is also available with the Polo, including parking sensors and a rear-view camera. Also available is park assist technology, which is capable of steering the vehicle automatically into even the tightest of spaces.

  Performance

  When it comes to getting off the line in a hurry, the range-topping GTi versions of these superminis are where your attention will be fixed. The new Peugeot 208 GTi by Peugeot Sport delivers an intense driving experience thanks to a set of 18-inch wheels, sporty dynamics, and a lowered ride height. The Euro 6 1.6-litre THP engine supplies 208bhp and maximum torque of 300Nm, resulting in an eye-watering 0-62mph time of just 6.5 seconds. Better still, efficiency doesn't suffer as the model can keep CO2 emissions down to just 125g/km.

  The Fiesta range includes the sporty ST variant, offering more aggressive styling and impressive performance. Offering less power than the 208, the Fiesta's 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine is able to deliver 180bhp and will accelerate to 62mph from a standing start in 6.9 seconds. CO2 emissions are also higher than the Peugeot at 138g/km.

  Within the Polo range, the GTi is the pick of the bunch when it comes to performance. Complete with 17-inch alloy wheels and sports suspension, it offers plenty of fun behind the wheel. Maximum power is offered by Volkswagen's 1.8-litre TSI powertrain, capable of producing 189bhp – 9bhp more than the Ford but still 19bhp short of the Peugeot. Put your foot to the floor and the car will accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds, again, finishing in between its two rivals.

  Still not sure which option is right for you? Find out more about the new Peugeot 208 offers at Pentagon today by getting in contact with a member of the team at your nearest Pentagon showroom. Alternatively, discover the 208 from behind the wheel and find out how simple it is to arrange a test drive by completing our online enquiry form.