AUSTRALIA, say bonjour to the 208, Peugeot's thoroughly revised replacement for the 207 premium light car.

Kicking off from $18,490, this contender from France is a commendable alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen Polo, with Peugeot having ironed out most of the wrinkles from its previous efforts.

Among the highlights are its zippy handling, equipment levels – including a standard high-end multimedia centre – ergonomic, well-made cabin and roomy cabin and typically comfortable ride.

The base engines and manual gearbox proved something of a let down, as did the somewhat lifeless steering, but nevertheless the 208 does enough to earn a spot on the shopping list of style-conscious buyers.