Peugeot 208 Revealed As Leaked Images Surface Online

Details and images for Peugeot's new 208 light car have surfaced online today, just hours out from the hatch's online unveiling.

Replacing the 207 in the long-running '20X' family, the 208 draws on the styling language first previewed with the bizarre BB1 city car, and most recently seen on the 508 sedan/wagon and 4008 SUV.

Measuring 70mm shorter than its predecessor in three-door form, the 208 weighs in at just 975kg - 170kg lighter than the outgoing 207.

The wheelbase remains unchanged at 2540mm, and although numbers have yet to be confirmed, there is expected to be improved interior space for occupants.

Peugeot has taken a more upmarket approach with the 208's cabin, offering high-quality materials, a large touch-screen and prestige-focused design language.

Initial engine options in the European market will reportedly include two three-cylinder petrol engines, replacing the 1.4 and 1.6 litre four-cylinder engines of the current line-up.

Five diesel engines are also expected, including Peugeot's Micro-hybrid technology and stop-start systems. 

Official details for the new 208 are expected to be released this week, with an "in the metal" unveiling planned for March's Geneva Motor Show. European sales will kick off in mid-2012, with an Australian debut likely to follow.