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First details and pictures have been released for the all-new Peugeot 208 supermini, which is smaller, more efficient and should be better to drive than the Peugeot 207, according to its designers.

The nose features a small grille with chrome surround, long headlights and a heavily sculpted bonnet. A scalloped profile leads onto a sporty tail with deep bumpers and LED rear lights.

Inside, the dials have been completely redesigned and are now located very high up on the dashboard, making it easier to glance at them once on the move. The central dashboard is focussed around a large touchscreen infotainment device. A small steering wheel has been fitted to give the 208 an agile feel.

The new model will be an average of 110kg lighter than the Peugeot 207 it replaces, and the entry-level model will weigh just 975kg in total - an impressive achievement.

It will be seven centimetres shorter than the 207 and one centimetre lower, but thanks to better use of interior space, rear seat passengers get five centimetres more legroom and the boot increases in size by 15 litres to 285.

Five models will be launched, with four featuring stop and start. The most economical diesel will average 83.1mpg and emit 87g/km of CO2 - class-leading figures. Petrol options include a 1-litre and 1.2-litre petrol, with top economy of 65.7mpg and emissions of 99g/km of CO2.

Not only are the engines ultra-efficient, 25 per cent of the materials used to build the Peugeot 208 will be recycled or of natural origin.

Peugeot is hoping to rekindle the fun driving experience found in older Peugeot models like the 205 and says the 208's light weight, compact size and engineering will deliver the goods.

The Peugeot 208 will arrive in the UK in summer 2012, with pricing expected to be similar to the outgoing 207.

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