Even more was the accompanying jalopy we travelled in to the ceremony aha, the range-topping Peugeot 2008 1.2 GT.
The compact SUV is big on style and charm, underlaid by solid build quality and driver appeal.
So, imagine all the toll-gates (costly though) and mountains and the hills along the N1, perfect like a PURRR! Limpopo is celebrated for having top of the range iconic destinations, so every opportunity to visit the province is welcomed in both hands…So couch critics’ lets do the sho’t left and travel this astounding country of ours- its worth every cent.
The range-topping 2008 1.2 GT is a fashion extrovert with its distinctive LED daytime running lights shaped like three claws and a fang — a nod to the lion badge that perches on Peugeot grilles.
Smartphone pairing is available through the full gamut of options — Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and USB — and the range-topping 1.2 GT model also has a smartphone charging plate.
The infotainment system comprises a large touchscreen complemented by an array of haptic switches on the dashboard. The climate control can be separately operated by smart-looking metal toggle switches, a stylish solution that simplifies the many functions available.
As a couple of two- all I could hear was the ravings and oohs, ahhs from the back. To ascertain it authority- the big boys who brought out their German designs also heaped praises, so did the staff members at the lodge we stayed at.
It has a comfortable ride too, with high-profile tyres ironing out bumps and potholes. It feels smooth and settled on rough gravel, with rattle-free solidity, and there’s good substance that accompanies it.
The front-wheel drive car has no true off-roading aspirations but there are driving programmes for mud and sand, as we entered Botlokwa area, a drive way from the main road that takes you up to Louis Trichard.
The 1.2 turbo three-cylinder is a perky and economical engine. Paired with a slick six-speed auto, it gives the compact SUV a nippy nature in the suburbs and easy-going open-road cruising.
The Peugeot 2008 1.2 GT is spacious and its boot can carry a pack of donkeys in Botlokwa, we tried but alas dololo!
It scores high on practicality with its 4,300mm length and 2,600mm wheelbase, making for a roomy cabin that seats adults comfortably front and rear. The split-level boot offers a spacious 434l (with the aid of a spacesaver spare) and flipping down the rear seats.
We left the ceremony, fortunately, there was no makoti shedding a tear!
The 2008 1.2 GT six speed boasts three-cylinder petrol turbo, capacity: 1,2l, Power: 96Kw, and Torque: 230Nm
Standard features include ABS brakes, stability control, six airbags, climate control, LED daytime running lights, electric mirrors, electric windows, personalisable ambient lighting, infotainment with 10-inch colour touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, voice control, smartphone charging plate, aluminium pedals, interior carbon effect finish, tri-material leather effect and cloth seat trim with lime green stitch detail, front heated seats, Advanced Grip Control, cruise control, lane keeping assist, speed limit recognition, blind spot monitoring, trip computer, keyless entry with push button start and reversing camera.
It’s a five years/100,000km warranty, with service plan: three years/60,000km.
Retails for R479. 900.
Verdict
Performance 1-10 (8)
Fuel 1-10 (7)
Images SLM (The Peugeot 2008 1.2 GT visited Limpopo for a family ‘malobola’ and what a head turner it was).
