Peugeot refreshed the entire lineup of the second generation of the 208 in July 2023, and the electric version was also heavily upgraded. It gained not only a new look but also a more powerful motor and a longer range.
Four decades after Peugeot launched the iconic 205 hatchback that sold in over 5 million units, the French automaker tried its best with the B-segment 208. Since the times were changed, the new model also came with an electric version. The automaker was not new to this game since it already tried it on the 106 Electrique supermini hatchback in 1995. Still, that model was a flop, with sales way under the target. But the carmaker learned its lesson, and when it brought the e-208 in 2019, it enjoyed great success.
The second generation of the 208 was a tremendous success for the French automaker. Even though it came in 2019, one year before the world pandemic situation, it was on top of its game and recovered quickly. It became the best-selling vehicle in its class for two years in a row, and the electron-powered version came on top of the B-segment in the electric category. Part of that success was the car's exterior design. As a result, Peugeot dared even more when it launched the 2023 model. At the front, instead of one vertical LED strip on each side of the front fascia, included three lines resembling three lion claws. After all, the lion was the brand's badge. Also, the grille was broader and extended on the lower bumper to the apron. The LED headlights lost their vertical illuminated slats and got three LEDs to illuminate the road. Depending on the trim level and color, the e-208 boasted wider tires and flared wheel arches. At the same time, at the back, a roof spoiler adorned the top of the tailgate. Furthermore, the taillights featured three horizontal LED lines instead of vertical ones, as in the 2019 model. As a distinct element for the electric version, Peugeot offered the e-208 with a choice of 16” and 17” light alloy wheels.
Peugeot engineers also improved the cabin. Like its predecessor, it featured a digital instrument cluster fronting the driver. In addition, a 10” touchscreen sat on top of the center stack for the infotainment system. Customers could buy the car with up to three charging ports (two at the front and one for the rear passengers) and a wireless charger for their mobile phones.
But the most significant upgrade was under the skin. While the automaker kept the same e-CMP platform with a front-wheel-drive setup, the motor was upgraded. Thus, instead of the older 134 HP (136 PS) unit, the automaker installed a 154 (156 PS) electric heart. The battery pack remained at the same value as its predecessor, but the range was extended to 400 km (249 miles) thanks to the new regenerative braking system. The automaker said that the battery pack could have been charged in approximately 25 minutes from 20% to 80% on a fast-charging station, while at a regular 7.5 kW, it took four hours and 40 minutes for the same refill.
load press release