Headlining a rejuvenating Peugeot range (a process that will culminate in the launch of the internationally well-received 308 later this year), the 208 has crept onto the top step thanks to sensible extensions to the local range (which now kicks off with the 1,0 Access at R147 500, offers interesting versions such as the 1,6 HDi Active at R206 900 and plateaus with the truly excellent 208 GTi) and the standard fitment of a five-year/60 000 km maintenance plan.
Niggles are negligible and include a flawed driving position (some people love it; others find it loathsome) and occasionally spiky ride. Otherwise, the cabin is carefully put together and logical to use, while refinement is as good as it gets in this segment. We’ve heard promising tales of vastly improved service at Peugeot dealerships, too. Now the carmaker just needs to get bums in seats.
Runners Up:
Kia Rio
The Korean beat the Peugeot 208 last year owing to the Frenchman’s limited range, but not this time. We remain fans of the all-rounder Rio, however, and since its launch availability has greatly improved.
Volkswagen Polo
The Polo is knocked from the winner’s perch because of the lack of a standard service plan (the shortest plan costs R7 000), high list prices and the fact that an updated version is round the corner.
ALSO CONSIDER
- Ford Fiesta
- Renault Clio
- Toyota Yaris
LOOK OUT FOR
More crossover than light hatch, the third-gen Honda Jazz will arrive before year-end. Its launch is preceded by a mid-year facelift to the Polo and new versions of the Mini (second quarter) and Smart (before year-end). We hope to see the Opel Adam, too.
Check out all the winners from our Top 12 Best Buys for 2014 here (click).