The 208's Powertrain Gets a Complete Overhaul

Peugeot 208

Peugeot 208 Powertrain Updated

Peugeot Citroën Japon has updated its lineup for the Peugeot B-segment model, the208and began sales on January 6, 2014.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

The ETG5 Transmission: A 5-Speed Single-Clutch Automated Manual

The "208," which arrived in Japan in November 2012 and is now celebrating its first anniversary, has seen its lineup refreshed. Models excluding the "GTi" and "XY" now feature the "PureTech" powertrain, combining a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine with an idling stop system and the new "ETG5" transmission.

This engine aims for high efficiency, with features like a carbon coating on the pistons to improve combustion. It's already featured in the 5-speed manual "208 Allure." The 5-door "208 Premium," previously equipped with a 1.6-liter engine and 4-speed automatic, and the "208 Cielo" with its panoramic glass roof, will also switch to the 1.2-liter displacement. This downsizing significantly improves fuel economy from 13.4 km/ℓ to 19.4 km/ℓ.

The new "ETG5" transmission, introduced with this update, is a 5-speed single-clutch automated manual. It boasts natural operation akin to an automatic transmission, with features like creep function simulation and "Hill Start Assistance," which holds the vehicle stationary for two seconds after releasing the brake pedal on inclines. It also offers sporty features characteristic of automated manuals, such as paddle shifters on the steering column and an automatic rev-matching function during downshifts.

Additionally, models equipped with the ETG5 and idling stop system now feature a black rear roof spoiler.

The revised lineup includes the 3-door 5-speed manual "Allure" at ¥2.02 million, and the 5-door ETG5 models starting at ¥2.12 million. The "Premium" 5-door ETG5 with different equipment is priced at ¥2.16 million, and the most luxurious "Cielo" is ¥2.40 million (all prices include 5% consumption tax).