Peugeot unveiled its latest family hatchback, the third-generation Peugeot 308, and it looks awesome. The new Peugeot 308 features brand’s new logo as part of its recent rebrand, which is a modern interpretation of a roaring lion’s head.
The new Peugeot 308 combines an attractive new design and a premium interior with class-leading technology and safety in the compact family car segment. Powerful and efficient plug-in hybrid engines are available for the first time on this model to challenge the segment-leading Volkswagen Golf GTE.
In terms of technology, the new Peugeot 308 is equipped with the latest-generation driving aids and the Peugeot i-Cockpit with 3D technology, plus i-Connect Advanced, an infotainment system that is intuitive to use and always keeps you connected. The interior of the new 308 offers greater space and comfort, while carefully chosen materials emphasize the high-quality finish. Efficiency and performance are also enhanced with new aerodynamic details.
CHOICE OF POWERFUL AND EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS
The new 308 is available with two plug-in hybrid powertrain options:
– Hybrid 225 e-EAT8 – a combination of an 180hp (132kW) PureTech engine and an 81kW electric motor mated to the e-EAT8 automatic gearbox. It emits as little as 26 g/km of C0₂ and up to 36 miles of 100% electric range (according to the WLTP protocol, in the process of being approved)
– Hybrid 180 e-EAT8 – a combination of a 150hp (110kW) PureTech engine and an 81kW electric engine mated to the e-EAT8 gearbox, with emissions from 25g/km of C0₂ and up to 37 miles of 100% electric range (according to WLTP protocol, in the process of being approved)
Both versions are powered by a 12.4kWh lithium-ion battery, while there are two types of on-board chargers available – a standard 3.7kW charger and an optional 7.4kW fast charger. The estimated recharging time is under 2 hours using a 7.4kW Wall Box (32 A).
SHARP AND ATTRACTIVE DESIGN
Sensual and sharp, the new Peugeot 308 continues the brand’s commitment to striking design. With bodywork that closely follows the structure of the car, the new 308 has a sleek and dynamic look.
With a 55mm longer wheelbase there’s more room for rear seat passengers, while this extra length also combines with a 20mm height reduction to create an even sleeker silhouette and a more powerful stance, despite being no wider than before. Simple and smooth flanks further showcase its powerful character.
At the front, the new Peugeot 308 is the first model to proudly feature the brand’s new logo, a roaring lion’s head. The logo also neatly covers the radar used by the autonomous driving aids for a sleeker look.
All variants of the new 308 feature LED headlights as standard. Chiseled and slim, they are enhanced by the brand’s trademark vertical LED daytime running lights. This distinctive light signature makes the new 308 instantly recognisable during both night and day. On GT and GT Premium levels, the full LED headlights feature Peugeot Matrix LED Technology, for even greater efficiency and safety. At the rear, the taillights feature full LED technology with Peugeot’s iconic three claw rear light signature.
Aerodynamic efficiency plays a large part in the design of the new 308. All exterior bodywork has been specifically designed (bumpers, deflectors, diffuser, body pillars, door mirrors etc.) for improved airflow, with the most obvious addition being the elongated roof spoiler. Even the wheel design contributes to the impressive overall drag coefficient figure of Cd 0.28.
REFINED AND COMFORTABLE INTERIOR
The seats of the new Peugeot 308 have been designed with comfort in mind and have been awarded the coveted AGR (Aktion für Gesunder Rücken) thanks to their ergonomics and range of adjustment. 10-way electric adjustment with two memory settings is available as an option, as is a multi-point massage system with several different programmes and heated seats.
The quality of the materials used also enhances the comfort and premium feel, with evolutionary mottled fabric, technical mesh, Alcantara, embossed leather and coloured Nappa leather (available as an option depending on trim). On GT versions there is also Adamite contrast stitching, which is used on the dashboard, door panels and centre console.
Those sitting in the back benefit from the longer wheelbase, with more leg and knee room allowing them to stretch out. They can also remain connected thanks to the availability of two USB C sockets for charging and data transfer placed at the rear of the centre console, while a folding centre armrest contains a phone tray as well as with two cup holders. There are also a pair of air vents for improved thermal comfort.
The air conditioning system also benefits from the addition of the AQS (Air Quality System) which constantly monitors the quality of the air entering the vehicle and is capable of activating air recycling on its own. From GT models upwards, the new 308 features Clean Cabin technology, which is an air treatment system that automatically filters out polluting gases and particles. The prevailing outside air quality is displayed on the central touchscreen.