The Peugeot 208 is consistently one of the most stylish cars in the small car segment — and the second generation (2019+) is legitimately class-leading in interior design. Available in petrol, diesel, and full-electric versions, it covers a wide range of budgets and use cases. On the Isle of Wight, the electric e-208 is particularly interesting given the island's short average journey lengths.
Browse Peugeot 208 listings on WightWheels →
Mk1 (2012–2019) vs Mk2 (2019–present)
Mk1 (2012–2019): Built on the same platform as the Citroën DS3 and MINI Hatch competitor of its era. Available in 3 and 5-door. Engine range includes 1.2 PureTech (the standout choice), 1.4 VTi, and 1.6 HDi diesel. The 1.2 PureTech 82 and 110 are the engines to choose — they're economical, refined, and avoid the DPF issues of the diesel on short trips.
Mk2 (2019–present): A generational leap in design and technology. The interior is genuinely premium — the 3D i-Cockpit digital instrument cluster looks better than cars costing twice as much. Available with the same 1.2 PureTech petrol (improved), plus the fully electric e-208 (136bhp, 217-mile range WLTP). One of the best-looking cars in its class.
The e-208 — Is Electric Worth Considering on the IoW?
For many Isle of Wight residents, the e-208 is a very sensible choice:
The island case for electric:
- Average IoW journey is under 10 miles — a 217-mile range is massively more than enough
- Home charging overnight means you effectively never visit a petrol station
- No DPF, no oil changes every year — maintenance costs drop significantly
- The island's charge point network (including rapid chargers) is improving rapidly
- Lower ferry costs — electric vehicles pay reduced rates on some crossings
The island challenge for electric:
- Upfront cost is higher (though gap is closing on used e-208s)
- Rapid charging still sparse outside Newport and Cowes
- Range anxiety for occasional longer mainland trips (though most EV users adapt quickly)
See our electric cars guide and EV charging on IoW for more detail.
What to Check
1.2 PureTech engine (both generations): Known for timing chain wear, particularly on early Mk2 (2019–2021) pre-update engines. Ask about any timing chain work or updated engine software. Symptoms: rattling on cold start. This was a serious issue on some units — an independent inspection is worthwhile on Mk2 petrols.
Rust (Mk1): Check sills, arches, and boot lip on older examples. The Mk1 can show corrosion in these areas.
Infotainment touchscreen responsiveness: Mk2's large touchscreen controls most functions. Check it responds promptly — some early units had lag issues, usually resolved by a software update.
Budget Guide
| Budget | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Under £4,000 | Mk1, 2013–2016, 1.2 PureTech or 1.4 VTi |
| £4,000–£7,000 | Mk1 late or Mk2 early, 2017–2020 |
| £7,000–£12,000 | Mk2, 2020–2022, 1.2 PureTech petrol |
| £12,000–£18,000 | e-208, 2020–2022, lower mileage |
Browse all electric and petrol cars for sale on the Isle of Wight →
Related: Electric cars for sale IoW · EV charging on IoW · Renault Clio IoW guide
