The Peugeot 108 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure: The Perfect City Car? A Comprehensive Review
The urban jungle demands a car that’s nimble, fuel-efficient, and easy to park. For years, the city car segment has thrived, offering practical solutions for navigating crowded streets. One contender that consistently garners attention is the Peugeot 108, particularly the 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure variant. But does it truly live up to the hype? Is it the perfect city car for you? This article dives deep into the Peugeot 108 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure, analyzing its strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for urban driving. We’ll explore its performance, features, practicality, and affordability to help you make an informed decision.
Peugeot 108 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure: What’s Under the Hood?
The heart of the Peugeot 108 Allure is its 1.2-liter PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine, boasting 82 horsepower. This engine is known for its:
- Fuel Efficiency: The PureTech engine is designed for excellent fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commutes.
- Punchy Performance: While not a powerhouse, the engine provides adequate acceleration for city driving and can handle motorway speeds with relative ease.
- Refined Operation: The three-cylinder design offers a surprisingly smooth and quiet driving experience.
This engine is typically paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, offering a direct and engaging driving experience. Automatic transmission options were also available, although less common.
Design and Exterior Features: Compact and Stylish
The Peugeot 108 is a stylish and compact car, perfectly suited for navigating tight city streets. Its design is characterized by:
- Compact Dimensions: Its small footprint makes parking a breeze.
- Modern Aesthetics: The exterior features sleek lines, a distinctive grille, and stylish headlights.
- Customization Options: Peugeot often offers a range of personalization options, including different roof graphics, exterior colors, and interior trim.
- Allure Trim Specifics: The Allure trim typically includes features like alloy wheels, a colour touchscreen, and a reversing camera, enhancing both style and practicality.
Interior and Practicality: Functionality in a Small Package
Inside, the Peugeot 108 offers a surprisingly spacious interior given its compact size.
- Comfortable Front Seats: The front seats are supportive and comfortable, even for longer journeys.
- Adequate Rear Space: While rear legroom is limited, it’s sufficient for occasional passengers.
- Small but Functional Boot: The boot offers a reasonable amount of space for groceries and everyday items.
- User-Friendly Infotainment System: The Allure trim usually includes a touchscreen infotainment system with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity.
- Ease of Use: The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls.
Driving Experience: Agile and Maneuverable
The Peugeot 108 excels in the urban environment, offering a nimble and engaging driving experience.
- Light Steering: Makes maneuvering in tight spaces effortless.
- Good Visibility: Offers excellent visibility, contributing to a safe driving experience.
- Responsive Handling: The car feels agile and responsive, making it fun to drive.
- Suitable for City and Occasional Motorway Use: While ideally suited to city driving, the 108 can comfortably handle motorway speeds.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs: Keeping Costs Down
One of the biggest advantages of the Peugeot 108 is its excellent fuel economy. The 1.2 PureTech engine is designed to be highly efficient, resulting in:
- Low Fuel Consumption: Expect impressive miles per gallon figures, significantly reducing running costs.
- Reduced Emissions: Contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
- Affordable Road Tax: Typically attracts low road tax rates.
- Relatively Low Insurance Premiums: Its compact size and low engine capacity often translate to lower insurance premiums.
Potential Drawbacks: Considering the Cons
While the Peugeot 108 has much to offer, it’s important to consider its potential drawbacks:
- Limited Rear Passenger Space: Rear legroom can be cramped for taller passengers.
- Small Boot Capacity: The boot is not ideal for carrying large items.
- Road Noise: Can be more pronounced at higher speeds.
- Basic Interior Materials: Some of the interior materials may feel less premium compared to larger cars.
Peugeot 108 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure: Is it the Perfect City Car? The Verdict
The Peugeot 108 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure is a compelling option for those seeking a perfect city car. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, stylish design, and agile handling make it well-suited for navigating congested urban environments. The Allure trim adds desirable features, enhancing both comfort and convenience. While it has some limitations, such as rear passenger space and boot capacity, these are often outweighed by its strengths, especially for those prioritizing maneuverability and affordability. Ultimately, the Peugeot 108 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure is a strong contender and a worthwhile choice for anyone seeking a practical and enjoyable city car.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the fuel economy of the Peugeot 108 1.2 PureTech 82 Allure?
The fuel economy is excellent, typically achieving around 60 mpg (miles per gallon) or higher, depending on driving conditions and style.
2. Is the Peugeot 108 a good car for motorway driving?
While primarily designed for city driving, the Peugeot 108 can comfortably handle motorway speeds. However, it might feel slightly less stable than larger cars in windy conditions.
3. How much space is there in the boot?
The boot capacity is relatively small, suitable for groceries and smaller luggage. However, the rear seats can fold down to increase cargo space if needed.
4. What are the common problems with the Peugeot 108?
Common problems are generally minor and include potential issues with the infotainment system and some reports of rattles or squeaks within the cabin. Regular maintenance is key.
5. What are the main competitors of the Peugeot 108?
Key competitors include the Fiat 500, Toyota Aygo, Citroen C1, and Renault Twingo.
