Yaspan Tech, Computers, Gadgets, Reviews, News and Analysis
If you’re in the market for a nippy city car, you’ve never had it so good – there’s so much choice and most of the cars trying to grab your attention are great buys.
Three of your possibles are closely related – you could almost say non-identical triplets – the Citroen C1, Toyota Aygo and Peugeot 108.
Now in their second generation and developed together (but with subtle differences) it’s a tough choice, but having driven all three, I reckon the Peugeot edges it.
The C1 is fun to drive and has the cheekiest grin, the Aygo looks the sharpest and most sporty, but the 108 is both funky and stylish, offering the best all-round package.
I drove the three-door Allure 1.2 TOP! which costs £12,095 with optional extras, including an electric full-length purple fabric roof – a bargain at £150. By the end of the week, I dubbed it “The Purple One” …
Outrageously cute outside and distinctive inside, the new 108 is roomy (for front seat passengers at least) and great fun to drive thanks to its eager little three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is officially capable of 65.7mpg. I certainly managed over 50mpg, but with a lighter right foot, I’m sure 60mpg is possible.
The engine is an immediate talking point because it’s loud initially on start-up, but soon settles down to an appealingly sporty thrum. With light steering, an excellent five-speed gearbox, good visibility and compact proportions, the 108 is a perfect city car.
Inside it’s comfortable with a large central dial straight ahead, featuring the usual suspects including speedo and fuel gauge, then to the left dominating the centre console is a new 7-inch touchscreen multimedia unit incorporating the interface for the audio system, trip computer, vehicle settings and the reversing camera screen.
Full connectivity is also available via USB, Bluetooth and Mirror Screen which allows your smartphone to display compatible apps on the car’s screen and manage them using the vehicle controls.
The 108 feels brisker than it is (0-62mph in 11 seconds) and is surprisingly relaxed at speed. It’s as stable as any standard, small car and the ride is pretty smooth.
There’s a separate accessories catalogue for the 108 for good reason – there are so many choices. So whether it’s wheels, gear knobs, exterior tattoo or kilt decals, barcode wing mirrors or dash designs, there’s something for everyone. You won’t regret going for the sunroof either, because even on a cold, sunny day, it gave the car a whole new dimension.
Negative points are the lack of rear seat room and a fairly small boot.
Summary: The new Peugeot 108 is bursting with character, fun to drive, economical and highly individual if you’re creative with the accessories.
Twitter: @garetherincx
