The first-generation Peugeot 208 (A9) marked a major break for the lion brand. Replacing the 207, it introduced a lighter design philosophy (up to 110 kg less) and a more compact exterior while preserving interior space. It is also the model that introduced the famous i-Cockpit (small steering wheel, high-mounted instruments, central touchscreen), an ergonomic choice that was divisive but distinctive. Restyled in 2015 (new bumpers, 3D LED claw-effect taillights, engine updates for Euro 6 standard with the arrival of PureTech turbo and BlueHDi), the 208 I is a car with first-rate road handling. However, its reliability record is heavily marred by design flaws in its flagship engines (wet belt of the PureTech, AdBlue tank of the BlueHDi).
The first-generation Peugeot 208 is a car full of dynamic qualities, but it is undermined by disastrous technological choices for its high-volume engines. Should you buy it? Yes, but only certain versions. The best choices are the Euro 5 generation diesels (1.4 HDi and 1.6 e-HDi), which are models of robustness and fuel efficiency. For petrol, the older 1.4 VTi / 1.6 VTi engines, although a bit thirsty, are preferable to the PureTech. The GTi (THP 200/208) versions are excellent enthusiast choices, as the engine has been made more reliable. Absolutely to avoid: The 1.2 PureTech without a meticulous service history (and even with one, the risk remains) and the 1.6 BlueHDi whose AdBlue tank has not already been replaced with the latest reference.