Peugeot e-208 test: the electric transition that has almost everything to please – Vroom

Peugeot has opted for a smooth transition regarding the switch to electric. Evidenced by its e-208 driving very close to a thermal equivalent.

In terms of electromobility, Peugeot has a clear strategy – as opposed to that of German competition. While we see a little too often flourish large 100% electric SUV a little too optimistic in terms of autonomy, the French manufacturer prefers to start from the bottom. In his view, it is more relevant to offer small 100% electric cars – suitable for short trips – and to opt for the hybrid in-between on the larger ones – those which generally rhyme with the versatility of uses. This is why Peugeot today offers 100% electric versions of the 208 and 2008 in its catalog.

When Peugeot formalized its e-208, we were immediately won over by the proposal, in this case the idea of ​​having a serious alternative to the Renault Zoe. And as the 208 is one of the best-selling cars in France every year, you might as well keep the main lines so as not to rush the drivers of France. We literally braved all odds – we will come back to this – during an extended test of this e-208, which has almost everything to please. As proof, success is already there with a 15% share of the sales volume of the 208 second generation introduced in 2019 – all engines combined.

A very nice car

” Peugeot formalizes its 208 electric (and we already like it) », We wrote at the time of his presentation. We were happy to talk about her very pretty look, with an assured feline look (it’s not the lion mark for nothing), the elegance that goes with the curved rear, the two fangs under the headlights and this light signature with three very convincing claws (optional). We could argue that the risk-taking is tiny compared to certain designers who are doing their best to mark the break. Peugeot preferred to bet on a winning team. Apart from a few distinctive elements (the colored grille, the letter lettre e ’written on the back), the e-208 looks exactly like the 208. Which also applies to its livability. The company did not want to sacrifice its flagship model on the altar of 100% electric, which requires a completely different layout.

The e-208 looks exactly like the 208

The exterior success – only lateral visibility is lacking in the e-208 – is also found inside, with quality finishes (the imitations of carbon fiber make a strong impression on the GT variant). We particularly like the cockpit with 3D display inspired by the Quartz concept. Concretely, it superimposes a classic digital screen and a slightly inclined window on which an image is projected. This gives a feeling of very successful overprint (unfortunately impossible to appreciate on a simple photo). It is just a shame that the top of the steering wheel hides the bottom, except to spend time adjusting its seat to get around the problem. Another flaw, this 3D display is such a visual success that it comes to throw a blow of old at the interface dedicated to the infotainment. Not only is the design not welcoming, but, as a bonus, the navigation turns out to be scattered, for not much.

Especially since Peugeot has opted for a mix between a touch screen / surfaces and physical buttons – arranged piano-style – as found in classic cockpits. For ergonomics, this is not always relevant: tactile surfaces lack, for example, a real haptic feedback to convince completely, while their place is not always judicious. In short, Peugeot still has room for improvement since its legitimate prudence sometimes plays tricks on it. We still have the feeling that it is moving in the right direction.

Stuck to the road

Before giving our opinion on the driving experience, it is worth reviewing the conditions under which we tested the e-208. Manufacturers generally choose sunny locations for their tests – to be able to take beautiful pictures and avoid climatic outbursts. For its Move to Electric event, Peugeot chose Sitges, near Barcelona. But it was not counting the Gloria storm that hit the place during our trip. The first day, the driving conditions were on the verge of apocalyptics (heavy showers and, above all, endless squalls) and, in about twenty kilometers, we were blocked by trees stranded on the route four times (until you have to resign yourself and turn around). Luckily, the next day, everything returned to normal.

We weren’t always calm at the wheel, considering the power of the wind to make a bus tremble. At least these hellish conditions will have allowed us to test one thing: the handling of the e-208. We know from experience that electric cars have a very low center of gravity, a characteristic linked to the installation of batteries on the floor. In essence, an electric vehicle is drawn to the ground – a real plus for safety. The e-208, which also benefits from an excellent chassis (Peugeot know-how) and effective anti-skating, is no exception to the rule and, at no time, we were afraid that the car turns around. It has never deviated once from the trajectory despite the external chaos.

A feeling close to a thermal experience

We find all the characteristics linked to electric driving, starting with this frank and fluid acceleration, accompanied by flawless comfort (especially for urban journeys). On this point, we still advise to engage the Sport mode to really enjoy the full power of the engine (100 kW) and the maximum torque (260 nm), flanged in normal mode (80 kW and 220 nm) and eco ( 60 kW and 180 nm). Between these three possibilities, the map of the accelerator pedal is modified (there is less need to press in Sport). The direction, very frank, is also different with more firmness as one wishes to increase the pleasure.

However, there is something surprising with this e-208: the regenerative braking, much softer than the competition. There is thus a mode Brake which increases the power of the engine brake to recover more energy. Except that the e-208 will never be a Nissan Leaf or a Tesla. Not only does it only switch on as soon as the battery is sufficiently discharged but, moreover, it will never be abrupt. During our test, it was only after 10% of the consumed autonomy that we started to feel the benefits of regenerative braking – which raises questions about efficiency. At no time can you only drive with one pedal. Why this choice on the part of Peugeot? Quite simply to offer a smooth transition, with a feeling close to a thermal experience.

Liquid cooling for the battery

The e-208 shares its development platform with the e-2008 – a compact SUV version. This means that a 50 kWh battery comes to nestle in its bowels. Peugeot announces a range of 340 kilometers in the WLTP cycle, which seems largely sufficient to meet the needs of daily trips (understand: going to the office). Only problem? The pessimistic car algorithm never announced more than 210 kilometers with the battery full. In fact, and after discussion with Peugeot, the real autonomy would be more around the 250 km, knowing that we will descend below the 200 mark on a fast track and that it is possible to tickle the 300 with driving very, very economical.

Real autonomy would be more around 250 kilometers

The e-208 is compatible with fast charging at 100 kWh thanks to its liquid cooling technology. On a terminal which is obviously compatible, we can recover 80% of the autonomy in less than 30 minutes. On a conventional socket, like the one you use for your smartphone, you will need to be patient (100% in 16 hours). Always at home, a reinforced socket – more powerful – will be faster (100% in 7 hours) and an even faster Wallbox (100% in 5 hours). ” We need to support our customers in this energy transition Explains Peugeot. Hence these many options for refueling.

Succinct piloting aid`

As for driving aids, we should not wait for the mountains and wonders of Peugeot. Worse, the e-208 turns out to be worse off than its thermal counterpart. It will be necessary to wait a few more months to benefit from the lane positionning assist (the car stands alone on the track with hands on the steering wheel required) and the smart speed adapter. Today, the e-208 still benefits from the lane keeping assist, helps maintain the trajectory that starts at 70 km / h.

To improve user comfort, Peugeot obviously offers a mobile application available on iOS and the Play Store. Thanks to it, you can watch your level of autonomy and activate certain functions remotely (example: air conditioning). Supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the e-208 also has a USB-C port (!) And a homemade voice assistant (of questionable relevance).

The Peugeot e-208 is available in four trim levels, from 32,100 euros (excluding ecological bonus).