85 Peugeot 208: ageing remarkably well

Peugeot’s 208 doesn’t quite take us back to the glory days of the old 205, but it gets closer than you might think. For a start, and even four years on from launch, it is a very good looking car.

Last year’s facelift brought along chunky, optional GT-Line bodykit which can make even a humble 1.0-litre model look like a GTI. The 1.6 HDI diesel is a perennial winner in fuel economy competitions, and has sufficient performance in hand to make the 208 a tolerable long-haul car.

Space inside is decent and while some might not like the small steering wheel and high instrument dash layout, we really do.

The GTI is, perhaps, a little less feral than that iconic, original 205 GTI and slightly less entertaining to drive than the Ford Fiesta ST, but the Peugeot hits back by being bloody quick, plenty of fun and more comfortable to live with than the Ford.

Price range: €14,940 to €28,845

CO2 emissions: 90 to 125g/km

Which one? 1.2 Puretech 82hp Active

PCP from €POA