When Renting A Car In Europe, Is The Peugeot 208 Right For You?

So you've made the decision to rent a car for the duration of your European trip. Great choice! The ability to take a road trip and enjoy the various area of this beautiful continent will be invaluable during your stay in the Old World.

But just as important as making the decision to rent during your trip is the choice of car. And while you have almost countless possibilities in that regard, you may find yourself drawn toward the Peugeot 208. Let's examine whether this car is the best fit for your needs.

The History of the Peugeot 208

The latest in a long line of French-made hatchbacks, the first Peugeot 208 model was released in 2012. Its origins, of course, go back much further. Auto lovers still remember the first 205 model from 1983, which played a major role in turning Peugeot's image around from conservative car maker to exciting and fresh. The Peugeot 205 was so popular, it won Car Magazine's prestigious Car of the Decade award in 1990.

Thanks to its popularity, Peugeot decided to keep the tradition of small-but-feisty hatchbacks going. Following the 205 were the almost equally popular 206 and 207 models, culminating in the 208 we love today. So let's dive into the specifics!

Peugeot 208 Features and Specs

Like its predecessors, the Peugeot's strength is in its size. At only 156” long and 78.9” wide, it may not be perfect for a large family, but is ideally designed to navigate high traffic areas and parking shortages. An 11-cubic-feet trunk expands to more than 40 cubit feet by folding down the back seats. 

Thanks in part to its small size, the Peugeot's 208 fuel efficiency is its calling card. The petrol models get up to 66 miles per gallon, while the diesel alternative clocks in at a remarkable 83 mpg. Depending on your model of choice, you will get a 3- or 4-cylinder engine with 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. Additional features, like a sunroof and GPS, are also available depending on your exact model of choice.

The Peugeot 208 Works If You...

... are studying abroad. Chances are you are on a tight budget, and the 208 will be your most reasonably priced alternative. Saving that money (along with the low fuel cost) means additional budget for your trips to explore the continent, which will come in handy.

... are staying in a city. Its compact size makes the Peugeot 208 the ideal European city car. In metropolises like London or Berlin, parking will always be at a premium, and the roads are never empty. The 208 helps you zip through that traffic and find parking spot even in tight places. 

... plan frequent road trips. What good is a trip to Europe if you don't explore the continent a bit? Chances are that when you arrive, you'll want to get around, visit different countries, and explore the countryside. Because of its impressive fuel efficiency, the Peugeot 208 is the perfect car for these road trips, enabling you to plan your journeys without having to worry that the price of gas will blow your budget.

... travel by yourself. Larger families may be worried about the lack of space, but driving long distances in a large car can feel just as uncomfortable. For a single driver or a driver with a single passenger, the 208 offers all the space you need to store your luggage without making you feel like you're wasting space. 

In short, the various models of the Peugeot 208 could be a perfect for you if you fit in one of the above categories, or are simply looking for a compact, fuel-efficient car to accompany you on your European journey. For more information about this and other models, along with the benefits of long-term car rental in general, contact us!