Each week, we find a released launched vehicle and see what global experts thought of it.

French brand Peugeot has created its first electric vehicle, starting with its 208 model. The e-208 has a real world range of 300km, takes 30 minutes to charge to 80 per cent and should be launched in New Zealand next year.

Top Gear

It was tough judging by the Brits, giving it 7/10.

“This is not a car for zero-emission virtue signallers. It looks like a regular 208. It is a regular 208. Performance and space, and even running costs as we’ll see, are pretty similar to the 208s that you pour inflammable liquid into.

And being a 208 is a good thing. It’s a car we like, partly because it’s just so darned desirable. It’s pert on the outside. On the inside original and beautifully made. Decent to drive too.

To fit the battery in, it’s not the usual EV flat slab, but is broken up into several sections so’s to be able to fit into the spaces vacated by the absent fuel tank, catalysts and exhaust of the combustion 208s. Plus there’s a transverse section under the front seats.”

Car wow

AutoMuse favourite liked the little EV, giving it 9/10.

“Under the e-208’s bonnet sits a 100kW electric motor with enough poke to give the e-208 nippy performance around town while its 50kWh battery has enough juice to travel for up to 300 between charges.

Traditionally-powered small cars like the Ford Fiesta will put a bigger smile on your face around corners, but versus other small EVs like the Renault Zoe the e-208 is more fun. It steers and changes direction eagerly will be more than enough for most and the fact that it’s comfy in town is another huge plus.

You can also get the Peugeot e-208 with a range of driver assistance systems designed to make long trips less stressful, including a clever cruise control feature that’ll accelerate, brake and steer for you on motorways. All-in-all the Peugeot e-208 has to be on your list of test drives if you’re in the market for a small electric car.”

Which Car?

The British magazine and website gave it an overall rating of 5/5.

“As its first mass produced EV, the e-208 represents a big move for Peugeot, and one that seems well-timed. However, in order to make that impact, the e-208 needs to have an impressive real-world range.

The e-208 feels reasonably agile by electric car class standards, and while its steering isn’t exactly brimming with feedback, it is at least well-weighted and accurate. 

If you’re wondering if there's a practicality compromise in choosing an e-208 over a petrol or diesel version, there isn’t. Fossil-fuelled or electric, every 208 has the same boot capacity. That means you'll be able to carry more luggage than you would in a Mini Electric, although a Zoe will carry even more.”

AutoNews

This British website was hard to please, giving it 3.5/5.

“The Peugeot e-208 is a cute and comprehensively high-tech small electric car that feels fun and youthful in a way that few rivals do. It’s just a shame that others go further between charges, and that the knobbly ride comfort and lack of cable storage let it down.

It’s cohesive and likeable to drive, too. Sure, the 0-100km/h time of 8.1 seconds doesn’t sound like much but stick the willing electric 208 in Sport mode and it razzes off the line with satisfying vigour, and it has a heartier mid-range response 

The trademark small Peugeot steering wheel is still an acquired taste, but it does give the e-208 an enthusiastic wieldiness that suits town or country road alike.”