The Peugeot 208 II GT-Line 1.5 BlueHDi (100 hp) is a front-wheel-drive hatchback produced between 2019 and 2023 as part of the second generation of the Peugeot 208 (Phase I). Positioned as a mid-range trim within the 208 lineup, it offered a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and a sporty aesthetic thanks to the GT-Line package. This variant was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel engines remained popular due to favorable taxation and fuel economy regulations. It represented Peugeot’s attempt to modernize the small hatchback segment with a focus on design and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 208 |
| Generation | 208 II (Phase I, 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | GT-Line 1.5 BlueHDi (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 111 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YHY DV5RD |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 265 l (9.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1106 l (39.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l (10.83 US gal | 9.02 UK gal) |
| Length | 4055 mm (159.65 in.) |
| Width | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2540 mm (100 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/45 R17 V |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 208 GT-Line 1.5 BlueHDi utilized the YHY DV5RD engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Peugeot’s BlueHDi range, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 100 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine’s valvetrain consists of four valves per cylinder, contributing to its breathing efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine, paired with the 6-speed manual gearbox, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. While not particularly sporty, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it feel responsive in urban environments and during overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t rev particularly high, even at highway speeds. Compared to the more powerful petrol variants of the 208, the BlueHDi felt less eager to accelerate, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control compared to the optional automatic transmission available on other 208 models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GT-Line trim level added a number of sporty styling cues to the standard 208. Exterior features included 17-inch alloy wheels, a black front grille, and GT-Line badging. Inside, the GT-Line featured sport seats with enhanced bolstering, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. Standard equipment included a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, air conditioning, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and parking assist.
Chassis & Braking
The 208 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The 205/45 R17 tires offered good grip in both wet and dry conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 208 II GT-Line 1.5 BlueHDi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and that the performance wasn’t as exciting as some of its petrol-powered rivals. Compared to the 1.2 PureTech petrol variants, the BlueHDi offered significantly better fuel economy but less outright performance. Compared to other diesel-powered hatchbacks in its class, such as the Volkswagen Polo and Renault Clio, the 208 offered a more premium interior and a more distinctive design.
Legacy
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines have faced increasing scrutiny in recent years due to emissions concerns, the BlueHDi variants of the 208 remain popular on the used car market, particularly for drivers who prioritize fuel economy and long-distance comfort. The GT-Line trim level helped to establish the 208 as a stylish and well-equipped small hatchback, contributing to its success in the European market. The combination of a fuel-efficient engine, a comfortable chassis, and a well-appointed interior made the 208 GT-Line 1.5 BlueHDi a compelling choice for buyers seeking a practical and enjoyable everyday car.
