Mazda 2 vs. Peugeot 208: Complete comparison 2026

Mazda 2, also known as the Mazda Demio in some markets and in its older generations, is an agile Japanese hatchback that wins drivers over with its low weight, precise handling, and reliable engines. Standing against it as a proud rival is the Peugeot 208, which in its fully electric variant bears the specific designation e-208, and which instead bets on aggressive French design, a high level of comfort, and the futuristic i-Cockpit interior concept. Let's take a look in this detailed comparison at how these two very different philosophies of a modern city car fare in a head-to-head battle and which of them represents the smarter choice for your daily journeys.

When choosing an approximately four-year-old used car in the small car segment (B-segment), you will encounter two completely different approaches to body construction with these two models. While both cars hover around the four-meter mark in total length, their proportions exude a different character. The second-generation Peugeot 208 embodies the modern trend of wider and lower cars, while the standard Mazda 2 (DJ generation) sticks to a more classic, rather taller and narrower silhouette.

The most striking and practically most noticeable difference can be found in width and height. With its 1745 mm, the Peugeot 208 is quite wide for its category, and thanks to its low roof (1430 mm), it looks very sporty and "planted" on the road. A wider body means significantly more shoulder room for passengers and a more mature-feeling interior. The Mazda 2, on the other hand, opts for a narrow profile (1695 mm) complemented by a roughly 70 to 80 mm taller build. This choice makes the Mazda a phenomenal companion for weaving through narrow city streets and confidently facilitates parking in tight spaces. Additionally, the higher roof makes getting in slightly easier.

An interesting situation arises with the wheelbase. Although the standard Mazda 2 has a narrower build, it boasts a longer wheelbase (2570 mm) than the Peugeot 208 (2540 mm). Wheels pushed further to the corners of the body not only provide confidence and stability at higher speeds but also help cleverly maximize longitudinal legroom for the occupants.

In terms of overall external dimensions, the choice depends on your daily territory. If you often park in crowded city centers or have a narrow garage, the more compact and narrower profile of the Mazda 2 will be a lifesaver for you. Conversely, if you spend more time on country roads and appreciate a more robust and wider-feeling car, the Peugeot 208 will suit you better.

Note on the table: For the Mazda 2, a wider range of values is listed, as both the classic model (DJ generation) and a specific full-hybrid version (a technological twin of the Toyota Yaris) are offered on the market during this period, which has a shorter (3940 mm) and wider (1745 mm) body.

When choosing a used city car, trunk capacity is often a surprisingly important factor. Even though these hatchbacks primarily serve for navigating narrow city streets, the ability to accommodate a larger weekly grocery shop, sports equipment, or luggage for a weekend trip out of town significantly increases their daily usability. A well-designed trunk can easily decide whether a car stands up as a primary vehicle for couples or small families, or whether it remains merely in the role of a stylish second family car.

Looking at used models approximately four years old (generations sold on the market around 2022), it turns out that both competitors approach the space offering slightly differently. The traditional Mazda 2 (the popular DJ1 generation) has a standard volume of 280 liters, while its full-hybrid sibling (ZV generation) adds a few extra liters for a total of 286 liters. The rival second-generation Peugeot 208 fares noticeably better in its standard internal combustion versions, boasting a solid 309 liters. However, you must be careful when choosing the fully electric e-208 variant, where the base capacity drops to a leaner 265 liters due to the placement of traction batteries under the floor.

In practice, this means that with the internal combustion Peugeot, you gain valuable space that is sufficient for weekend shopping and longer holidays. The difference of nearly 30 liters in favor of the French model means trouble-free space for a few extra suitcases, or at least for one stuffed sports bag that you simply couldn't fit into the Mazda. After folding down the rear seats, the Peugeot 208 (for petrol and diesel engines) can offer a total of 1,004 liters, once again maintaining its lead over the Mazda 2, whose limit stops at 950 liters (or 935 liters for the latest hybrid). However, if you are considering an electric used Peugeot, the roles are reversed – at that point, despite its compact dimensions, the Mazda retains a more voluminous and usable trunk.

Trunk Capacity Comparison

When choosing a compact city hatchback, towing capacity might not be the first parameter you look at, but for many buyers, it is a key factor affecting the car's overall practicality. Differences in towing capacity directly determine whether the car will serve only for commuting or if it can also handle a trailer with materials or a small caravan. When comparing modern used cars around four years old (the current generations of both models), quite fundamental differences emerge in this regard.

For the vast majority of common internal combustion and mild-hybrid engines (e.g., 1.5 SKYACTIV-G and e-SKYACTIV-G), the Mazda 2 (DJ1 generation) can tow a braked trailer with a maximum weight of 900 kg. A standard unbraked trailer is limited to 500 kg for these versions. However, a specific situation arises with the full-hybrid version, the Mazda 2 Hybrid (ZV generation, sold since 2022). Due to the shared platform and technical limitations, it offers a significantly reduced towing capacity – a maximum of 450 kg, for both braked and unbraked trailers.

Conversely, the second generation of the Peugeot 208 (produced since 2019) delivers very impressive figures for a small hatchback. Most popular engines, such as the 1.2 PureTech petrol versions with 100 or 130 hp and the 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engine, can easily handle a braked trailer weighing up to 1200 kg. An unbraked trailer can weigh up to 580 kg for these versions. A notable exception in the range is the entry-level, weakest 1.2 PureTech 75 engine, where the maximum permitted weight for both braked and unbraked trailers is reduced to just 500 kg.

In terms of practicality, this means that the more powerful variants of the Peugeot 208 can easily handle a small caravan, giving you space for several extra suitcases or a base for a longer holiday. The 900 kg value for standard versions of the Mazda 2 represents a reasonable middle ground, which is fully sufficient for weekend shopping for bulky materials or the occasional transport of heavier loads. The reduced capacity of 450 to 500 kg, found in the hybrid Mazda 2 and the base Peugeot 208, limits you mainly to installing a bike rack on the tow bar or pulling a very light garden trailer.

A brief summary in conclusion: If you require maximum flexibility and workhorse qualities from a small car, the Peugeot 208 (except for the base engine) will serve much better with its 1200 kg limit. The Mazda 2 represents a reliable standard for everyday duties, but those interested in full-hybrid technology from either brand must be prepared for reduced utility capacity.

While the Mazda 2 and Peugeot 208 target a similar group of drivers looking for a stylish and agile B-segment car, their approach to powertrains differs fundamentally, which has a direct impact on daily usability and running costs. From the perspective of roughly four-year-old used cars, the Mazda 2 primarily bets on proven 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines, characterized by long-term reliability, linear power delivery, and, in the mild-hybrid version, excellent fuel economy. Furthermore, you can find a full-hybrid variant on the market, which is de facto a rebadged Toyota Yaris with a technically advanced planetary gear system. In contrast, the second-generation Peugeot 208 offers a much wider and more diverse range of powertrains in terms of fuel. In addition to the turbocharged 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder engines and the economical 1.5 BlueHDi diesel, which will please drivers with high motorway mileage, a fully electric e-208 version is also available. Thanks to its 260 Nm of torque, it offers the most dynamic driving experience in the entire range. If you are looking for bulletproof reliability and smoothness for city driving, the Japanese approach with naturally aspirated engines will be ideal. However, if you crave a significant turbo punch, diesel efficiency on longer trips, or want to switch to electromobility, Peugeot offers exactly what you need.

Mazda 2

The range of engines for the Mazda 2 from around 2021 and 2022 revolves primarily around the 1.5 e-SKYACTIV-G naturally aspirated petrol four-cylinder. This is available in several power variants (55 kW, 66 kW, and 85 kW), most of which are supplemented by mild-hybrid technology (often referred to as M Hybrid) to reduce consumption and smooth out the start-stop system's operation. These engines rely on a precise six-speed manual gearbox, although the mid-power version could be optionally paired with a six-speed torque converter automatic. An interesting model is the Mazda 2 Hybrid, which entered the market in the spring of 2022. It is a full hybrid with an e-CVT automatic transmission and technology borrowed from Toyota, making it the absolute king of city fuel economy. Historically, the Mazda 2 also offered 1.5 SKYACTIV-D diesel variants (produced until 2018), but these gradually disappeared from the range and you will no longer encounter them on the market for four-year-old used cars.

Peugeot 208

Under the hood of the second-generation Peugeot 208, you will find a much more diverse selection covering all available fuel types. The basis is the 1.2 PureTech petrol three-cylinder engines. While the weakest naturally aspirated version with 55 kW has to make do with a five-speed manual, the more powerful turbocharged variants (74 kW and 96 kW) already work with a six-speed manual or a very smooth-shifting eight-speed EAT8 automatic. In the small car category, a diesel engine is a huge rarity nowadays, but Peugeot offers a 1.5 BlueHDi four-cylinder with 75 kW (available until roughly 2023), which boasts strong pull with 250 Nm of torque and excellent motorway fuel economy. A big draw is the purely electric e-208 model with 100 kW (and 115 kW in newer model years) and instant torque of 260 Nm, providing very brisk driving in complete silence both in and out of the city. On the market for nearly new used cars, you may also come across the newly introduced mild-hybrid powertrains (Hybrid 100 and Hybrid 136), but these only appeared for sale at the end of 2023.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction with a used car, and our recommendations are based on real-world experience, mechanical reliability, actual fuel consumption, and owner feedback. The battle between these two approximately four-year-old used cars offers an interesting generational and technological contrast – while the Mazda 2 (DJ1 generation) stubbornly sticks to traditional, mechanically robust, larger-displacement naturally aspirated four-cylinders, the second-generation Peugeot 208 has fully embraced the downsizing trend with agile, turbocharged three-cylinders.

For the Mazda 2, we recommend: 1.5 SKYACTIV-G, 90 hp (66 kW)

This naturally aspirated four-cylinder is a true gem among small cars and represents the best compromise in the entire range. Compared to the weaker 75-hp version, it offers much better flexibility for safe overtaking while maintaining the exact same low maintenance requirements. In roughly four-year-old units, you will also often come across the mild-hybrid version (M Hybrid), which further smooths out the operation of the stop-start system.

• Technical strengths: The engine scores with an extremely linear power delivery without any turbo lag. Its greatest weapon, however, is its fantastic real-world fuel consumption, which can be kept below 5.5 l/100 km in normal suburban traffic without much effort.
• Known risks and weaknesses: The absence of a turbocharger and complex emission systems means a minimum of expensive failures. The only trade-off for direct fuel injection is the risk of carbon buildup on the intake valves if the car is driven exclusively on short "cold" city trips. How to prevent problems: Occasional refueling with premium fuel containing cleaning additives and a regular "stretch" of the car at higher RPMs, for example when merging onto a highway, is more than enough for prevention.
• Who it is for: Drivers who buy a car for many years to come, bet on the unrivaled reliability of Japanese engineering, and prefer a smooth, fluid, and predictable ride will be thrilled with this engine.

For the Peugeot 208, we recommend: 1.2 PureTech 100, 100 hp (74 kW)

In the case of the second-generation Peugeot 208, the 100-hp turbocharged three-cylinder is the absolute ideal choice. It provides the car with excellent dynamics that the smaller and weaker naturally aspirated version (75 hp) lacks at highway speeds. Furthermore, it pairs perfectly with both the precise manual and the exceptionally comfortable EAT8 eight-speed automatic transmission.

• Technical strengths: Thanks to turbocharging, the engine offers substantial torque from very low RPMs. In practice, this means the car feels incredibly lively, even when fully loaded. With sensible driving, fuel consumption consistently ranges between 5.5 and 6.0 l/100 km, which is a great result for such a dynamic car.
• Known risks and weaknesses: The main weakness of PureTech engines is the timing belt immersed in an oil bath, which tends to crumble and clog the oil pump pickup. For a four-year-old used car, checking the service history and the condition of the timing belt is an absolute necessity. How to prevent problems: The key is to shorten the oil change interval to a maximum of 10,000 to 15,000 km (or 1 year), strictly use only the oil type prescribed by the manufacturer, and have a mechanic visually check the condition of the belt during every service (it can be inspected through the oil filler cap).
• Who it is for: An ideal candidate for more dynamically minded drivers looking for a powerful and flexible car for highway commutes and city weaving, who are also willing to give the car slightly more careful and regular maintenance.

Official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often differ from reality, which is why it is much more useful to look at real-world data from actual driving when choosing a used car. For the purposes of this comparison, we focused on relevant generations from the used car market around four years old (second-generation Peugeot 208 and the corresponding Mazda 2) and used information from drivers themselves on the independent community portal Spritmonitor.de. These user statistics more accurately reflect daily driving in various conditions and allow for a fair and objective comparison.

Source:

Looking closely at the data, some interesting trends emerge. In the case of the Peugeot 208, a common ailment of small three-cylinder engines is evident in practice: the basic naturally aspirated 1.2 PureTech 75 version saves almost no fuel in the real world compared to the more powerful turbocharged variants. On the highway or under heavier loads, you have to rev the weaker engine more, which is why the average consumption across purely petrol versions of the Peugeot remains steady at around 5.3 liters. The Mazda 2, on the other hand, scores points with its larger naturally aspirated SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engines. These prove that a classic non-turbo design can be even slightly more economical in a compact car than French downsizing.

When it comes to pushing operating costs to the absolute minimum, two completely different concepts rule the table. The first is the diesel Peugeot 208 1.5 BlueHDi with a fantastic average consumption of 4.1 l/100 km. The second is the Mazda 2 Hybrid (a technological twin of the Toyota Yaris sold under the ZV designation), which realistically manages to drive for as little as 4.0 liters per hundred kilometers.

For the typical driver whose territory is primarily heavy city traffic and the surrounding area, the full-hybrid or mild-hybrid Mazda 2 makes the most economic sense, as the car can benefit from constant energy recovery. Conversely, drivers commuting dozens of kilometers daily or regularly cruising on the highway should include the diesel Peugeot 208 in their selection. For buyers with a tighter budget looking for a more affordable used car, the standard petrol versions will serve well, where the basic Mazda promises a slightly more peaceful sleep when paying at the gas station.

In conclusion, for these specific models, fuel consumption alone should not be the primary deciding factor. The differences between comparable petrol engines of both brands amount to at most half a liter per hundred kilometers, which won't ruin your wallet. It is much more important to choose the type of powertrain (naturally aspirated, turbo, hybrid, or diesel) that exactly matches your driving style and the type of routes you travel most often. Both cars prove in their specific disciplines that they can be exemplarily economical.

Looking at the market for used cars approximately four years old (models from 2021 to 2022), we encounter a relatively different situation for these two B-segment representatives. While the French representative benefits from its extraordinary sales popularity and an unrivaled wide range on the market, the Japanese model scores with its long-term reputation as a reliable car, which is logically reflected in its higher residual value.

Mazda 2: Smaller selection, but stable value

The Japanese Mazda 2 in its third generation (code name DJ) is not among the most widespread cars in European used car dealerships. For the buyer, this means a certain specificity – you might wait a while for your dream unit in a specific color or trim. On the other hand, this car holds its residual value excellently. Thanks to the naturally aspirated 1.5 Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engines, which are renowned for their durability and mechanical reliability, the prices of four-year-old models stay surprisingly high. The cheapest and most high-mileage units start just below €12,000, but for carefully serviced vehicles with lower mileage, you will commonly pay around €14,000 to €16,000.

Peugeot 208: Huge selection and diverse powertrains

The second generation of the Peugeot 208, on the other hand, is considered an absolute sales hit and stays at the top of the sales charts across Europe. The result is a huge selection on the used car market. Prices for the cheapest, often former fleet vehicles with the basic 1.2 PureTech engine, drop to around a pleasant €10,000. However, if your preference is for a more powerful turbocharged engine with a successful automatic transmission, or if you desire the attractive GT Line visual trim with LED headlights in the shape of "lion claws", expect prices between €12,000 and €14,000. A completely separate category is the fully electric Peugeot e-208 variant, whose used units usually range around €16,000 to €18,000 depending on the capacity and health of the battery pack.

• Buyer's tip: If you have a strictly limited budget and are looking for a car with the most diverse range of optional features, a used Peugeot 208 will offer you more bang for your buck. However, if you plan to own the car for many years with a view to the lowest possible service risks after the warranty expires, the small extra cost for a naturally aspirated Mazda 2 will likely pay off handsomely in lower service bills.

Although the names of both cars are often associated with prestigious five-star Euro NCAP ratings in the world of automotive safety (for example, with the hybrid derivative of the Mazda or the previous generation of the Peugeot), when choosing a roughly four-year-old used car, it is absolutely crucial to understand the context and the year of testing. The test protocols of the independent organization Euro NCAP are constantly evolving and becoming dramatically stricter over time. While a robust body was once enough to earn a full score, today, advanced active safety systems and the vehicle's ability to prevent collisions with pedestrians or cyclists are strictly required. Percentage scores from different years can therefore definitely not be directly and fairly compared. Both generations we are looking at earned a very solid four stars in their respective test years.

The Mazda 2 (DJ generation) underwent Euro NCAP testing in 2015. It should be noted that its original safety certification has already formally expired according to the association's current rules. The car excelled in excellent body rigidity and protection in frontal and side impacts, but the overall rating suffered slightly due to the absence of some advanced assistance systems at the time. For example, the autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system, which works reliably even at higher intercity speeds, was not standard for Mazda back then, which lowered the result in the safety assist category.

The Peugeot 208 (P21 generation) completed safety tests in 2019, following a significantly stricter and more modern methodology. This already evaluated more complex automatic braking scenarios and stricter criteria for the protection of vulnerable road users in much greater detail. In its basic equipment, the Peugeot relied on a camera system that was slightly less effective at detecting fast-moving cyclists, which was reflected in a lower score for vulnerable road users. On the other hand, the car's platform proved its technological maturity, with adult occupant protection reaching an excellent 91% and child protection also performing excellently.

From the perspective of today's standards, the Peugeot 208 clearly offers a more modern and comprehensive package of active prevention. Although the Mazda 2 can still reliably protect its occupants in terms of passive safety thanks to its robust construction, its electronic architecture from 2015 simply cannot fully compete with the assistance systems of its French rival, which are better prepared for complicated situations in modern heavy traffic.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer and clearly demonstrate the completely different approach of both manufacturers to the overall concept of the car and added value.

Mazda 2: Japanese precision and driver focus

• Engines and drivetrain: Mazda goes against the grain and relies on naturally aspirated 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engines instead of small turbocharged three-cylinders. In newer models (from 2020), this engine is often paired with mild-hybrid technology (Mazda M-Hybrid), which reduces fuel consumption and helps with smooth starts without the driver losing the linear engine pull.
• Chassis and electronics: A specialty of the brand is the G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) system. This subtle but highly effective software feature constantly adjusts engine torque according to steering wheel movements. This results in optimal weight distribution, which improves cornering stability and increases passenger comfort.
• Infotainment and ergonomics: Mazda strictly adheres to the principle that operating touchscreens while driving is distracting. The Mazda Connect system is therefore primarily controlled by a multi-function rotary controller (HMI Commander) on the center console, which is a completely unique and very safe solution in this class. Higher trim levels also offer a Head-Up display that projects key information directly into the driver's field of vision.
• Transmission: Mazda 2's six-speed manual transmissions are famous for their short and incredibly precise throws. Shifting is inspired by the legendary MX-5 roadster and will delight anyone who enjoys driving.

Peugeot 208: Avant-garde design and technological revolution

• Engines and platform: The French automaker relies on the modern CMP platform, which allows for a wide variety of powertrains. In addition to the popular 1.2 PureTech turbocharged three-cylinders and economical BlueHDi diesels, used car buyers can also choose the fully electric e-208 version with a range of over 300 km on a single charge.
• Infotainment and interior: The most striking feature of the car is the innovative 3D i-Cockpit. It combines a very small, low-mounted steering wheel and a raised instrument cluster. In higher trim levels, information on the cluster is displayed holographically in 3D – more important data, such as speed or warnings, visually stand out, which speeds up the driver's reaction time.
• Smart design and details: Aesthetics take center stage both outside and inside. Typical is the aggressive light signature with LED daytime running lights resembling lion's fangs and claw-shaped rear lights. In the interior, we find "toggle switches" that allow quick and stylish access to the main functions of ventilation, navigation, or radio without having to search through complex touchscreen menus.
• Transmission and telematics: Unlike many competitors who use dual-clutch transmissions, Peugeot offers a comfortable eight-speed EAT8 torque converter automatic. It excels in shifting smoothness. There are also advanced assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function and active lane-keeping, which makes the small 208 a mature car even for highway travel.

Mazda 2 is an ideal choice for drivers who want to enjoy every drive and appreciate reliable traditional technology without unnecessary turbochargers. It fits perfectly for individuals or couples who don't mind the smaller interior space but demand precise craftsmanship and trouble-free daily coexistence.

Peugeot 208 will primarily appeal to customers looking for distinctive style, modern technology, and excellent driving comfort in a city car. It represents an excellent choice for those who are comfortable with the avant-garde dashboard layout and want a choice between economical diesel, petrol, or purely electric drive.

Based on breakdown statistics, long-term feedback from owners, and practical insights revealed by independent physical car inspections before sale, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of both used cars should watch out for.

Mazda 2

The third generation of the Mazda 2 is considered one of the most reliable cars in its class on the market for roughly four-year-old used cars, yet it can still suffer from some specific ailments.

• Engine and drivetrain: Naturally aspirated 1.5 Skyactiv-G petrol engines are considered exceptionally durable and do not suffer from any fatal failures. In cars with higher mileage, worn ignition coils (manifesting as rough running and misfires) or a tired right engine mount, which transmits vibrations to the cabin at idle, appear rather exceptionally. The solution is standard replacement of wear parts.
• Bodywork and exterior: A known weakness of Mazda cars from this era is the very thin and soft layer of paint (especially with the optional Soul Red color). The bodywork is thus extremely susceptible to minor scratches and stone chips. A common fault in older models is also cracking plastic gears in the electric mirror folding mechanism, causing the mirrors to stop moving smoothly.
• Infotainment and electronics: Some owners complain about so-called "ghost touches," where the MZD Connect onboard system's touchscreen selects menu items entirely on its own. Occasional connection drops via Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth also occur. In many cases, these issues are successfully resolved by a software update. If the start-stop system (i-STOP) suddenly stops working, it is usually the most reliable indicator of reduced 12V car battery capacity.

Peugeot 208

The second generation of the Peugeot 208 (produced since 2019) attracts with an exceptionally attractive design, but under the hood, it hides several risk areas that require close service attention.

• Engine (1.2 PureTech): By far the greatest risk of the petrol versions is the timing belt, which is designed to run directly in the engine oil. In neglected units, the belt has a strong tendency to crumble, with released rubber particles quickly clogging the oil pump's pickup screen. This leads to a dangerous drop in oil pressure, the risk of total engine seizure, and in some cases, even a loss of brake boost. It is crucial to change the oil more frequently every year (or after a maximum of 10,000 km) and strictly visually inspect the condition of the belt. At the same time, these engines often suffer from increased oil consumption at higher mileages due to worn piston rings.
• Engine (1.5 BlueHDi): In diesel engines, problems with the urea injection system (AdBlue) appear with increasing age – most often the dosing pump or the electronics of the tank itself fail, requiring an expensive replacement of the entire module. Furthermore, if the diesel is operated exclusively on short city routes, the diesel particulate filter (DPF) becomes clogged very quickly.
• Infotainment and electronics: A common ailment of the car is a slow-responding onboard system. The display can occasionally freeze or restart unexpectedly, which is particularly unpleasant for the driver because the air conditioning settings are also controlled through it. Another problem is sometimes excessive battery drain in a parked car caused by software errors or parasitic draws.
• Chassis and brakes: In examples equipped with larger 17-inch alloy wheels, chassis parts wear out significantly faster on broken roads, and owners often report premature tire wear. Complaints about squealing brakes are also relatively common, which is usually only resolved by installing higher-quality aftermarket brake pads.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. A professional used car inspection, such as the one provided by the CarAudit service, can reveal hidden defects before you sign the contract. Here are some specific points to focus on for roughly four-year-old models (the current generations of these vehicles):

When choosing a Mazda 2:

• Smoothness of the manual gearbox and clutch: Mazda's manual gearboxes are traditionally among the best on the market. During the test drive, check if the gears (especially second and third) can be shifted perfectly smoothly and without "catching" on the synchromesh. Also, pay attention to the clutch – its operation must be smooth, it shouldn't bite at the very top, and it must not show any signs of slipping during sharp acceleration.
• MZD Connect infotainment response: Although system versions from 2020 and newer are more reliable, older DJ generation models occasionally suffered from "ghost touch" errors (the screen clicking on its own, usually caused by a faulty touch layer). Try navigating the menus and verify the system's stability by connecting a phone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
• Chassis condition and engine mounts: Ideally, take the test drive over speed bumps or a bumpy road. Roll down the window and listen for any knocking from the front axle, which indicates worn stabilizer mounts. Significant vibrations transmitted to the interior at idle typically signal a worn right engine mount silent block.
• Functionality of the electric folding mirrors: The plastic gears inside the mechanism can fail over time due to moisture and dust. Try folding and unfolding the mirrors on both sides several times using the button in the interior to verify they don't get stuck or make an unnatural sound.
• 12V battery condition and the i-STOP system: If the start-stop system (referred to by Mazda as i-STOP) does not activate after the engine has warmed up when stopping at a traffic light, it often serves as the first warning that the main 12V battery is losing its capacity and will soon require a significant investment for replacement.

When choosing a Peugeot 208:

• Timing belt on 1.2 PureTech engines: This otherwise lively three-cylinder engine uses a so-called "wet" timing belt immersed in engine oil. If it hasn't been changed on time, its structure begins to degrade. On most units, the belt can be roughly inspected visually by looking directly through the oil filler cap – look for any signs of cracks, swelling, or fraying on the back of the belt.
• Oil pressure warning and rough engine running: Particles from the degrading timing belt clog the oil pickup strainer and prevent proper lubrication. If the oil pressure warning light comes on during hard braking or at idle, or if the engine's RPM fluctuates significantly when cold and jerks (loses power) under load, definitely avoid the car. Check the service history to see if the oil was changed at most every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres.
• Automatic transmission behaviour (EAT8): The modern eight-speed torque converter automatic should change gears silky smooth. Try sharp acceleration followed by braking to a stop – if the gearbox jerks noticeably, hesitates to shift, or downshifts with a palpable thud, it could be a costly problem with the mechatronics or a neglected transmission oil change.
• Stability of the infotainment and on-board electronics: The digital i-Cockpit and central display can sometimes have a mind of their own. During the drive, enter a destination into the navigation, switch radio stations, and watch if the screen freezes, goes black, or restarts spontaneously. Software updates help, but sometimes the hardware itself is at fault.
• Battery health on the e-208 version (SOH): If you are considering buying the fully electric e-208 version, a test drive won't tell you the whole truth. The most important check is reading the traction battery's State of Health (SOH) using original diagnostics. Degradation below 90% significantly reduces the already limited range on a single charge, and potential repairs to battery modules are very expensive.

Sources: ADAC, garaz.cz, e15.cz, chytreauto.cz, techfocus.cz, podnikatel.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.