Peugeot 108 revealed with convertible option for 2015
Peugeot has pulled the covers off the new 108 city car, which arrives with a fabric-roof convertible variant and lighter construction ahead of its Geneva debut.
Peugeot has officially unveiled the new 108, which makes its public debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The city car enters its next generation with a focus on lighter weight, updated styling and, for the first time, a convertible option.
The new 108 measures 3.47 metres long and 1.62 metres wide, making it well suited to urban use. The key change is the introduction of a fabric-roof convertible, which Peugeot calls the 108 Top! This version features a retractable soft top measuring 76 cm by 80 cm, adding open-air driving to the model’s appeal without a significant increase in weight or complexity.
At 840 kg, the 108 sits among the lightest cars in its class. This weight reduction aids both efficiency and agility, important in a segment where running costs and ease of use are priorities for buyers. The car’s styling draws from the larger 308, with a more refined look than its predecessor and a range of alloy wheel options in 14- or 15-inch sizes, fitted with low rolling resistance tyres.
Engines and equipment
Buyers can choose between two three-cylinder petrol engines. The entry-level 1.0-litre e-VTi produces 68 hp and is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. For those wanting more power, Peugeot offers a 1.2-litre PureTech VTi with 82 hp. Both send power to the front wheels, and the focus remains on low emissions and fuel consumption.
| 1.0-litre e-VTi | 68 hp (51 kW), 5-speed manual |
|---|---|
| 1.2-litre PureTech VTi | 82 hp (61 kW), 5-speed manual |
Standard safety features include six airbags, electronic stability programme (ESP), ABS, electronic brake force distribution and emergency collision braking. All versions come with hill start assist and a tyre under-inflation warning system. Braking is handled by 247 mm ventilated front discs and 200 mm rear drums.
Inside, the 108 offers a height-adjustable driver’s seat, a 7-inch touchscreen display, automatic air conditioning and electric power steering. The convertible model’s roof can be controlled electronically from the cabin. Peugeot aims to bring a more premium feel to the city car segment with these features.
Market position and rivals
The 108 enters a competitive city car market, where it will be joined by its platform siblings, the Citroën C1 and Toyota Aygo, both due for renewal in 2014. The addition of a convertible variant puts the Peugeot in direct competition with rivals offering similar open-top options. For more on the Geneva debut and the wider trio, seePeugeot 108 debuts at 2014 Geneva Motor Show with three variants
