This new Peugeot 308 looks to have the merit to stand up against the likes of the Golf and the Focus.
Peugeot has recently revealed its new 308 hatchback. Substantially overhauled for its third iteration, this all-new version comes armed with sharp styling, a brace of PHEV powertrains, a classy interior and a boatload of tech to take the fight to its established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and Renault Megane.
Kicking things off with its styling first, this new French hatchback borrows the striking design cues from the existing Peugeot lineup. Albeit turned up just a notch further on the sharpness factor, as seen with the sharper fang-like LED headlight clusters flanking a chiseled front grille that incidentally also feature the brand’s recently revised coat of arms logo that is making its debut here.
This new lion’s head logo is also to be appear on the front fenders and on the tailgate of the Peugeot, with all the bodywork in between these two places supposedly featuring a much cleaner design in the French automaker’s attempts to make the 308 as aerodynamic as possible. Hence the reason therefore for the addition of an elongated roof spoiler and flatter alloy wheel designs, which all contribute to the new hatchback’s impressive Cd factor of 0.28.
Speaking of efficiency and in line with Peugeot’s claims to electrify its entire lineup by 2025, under the hood of this new French hatchback are a pair of plug in hybrid powertrains that consist of either a 148 hp or a 178 hp turbocharged four-cylinder engines paired with a 109 hp electric motor. With the former mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and the latter fed by a 12.4 kW lithium ion battery pack, the 308 claims an all-electric range of up to 60 km with a full charge achievable in under 2 hours from a 7.4 kW charger.
Aside from these electrified engine options, there are still a brace of pure-combustion petrol and diesel engine options available ranging from a 1.2 litre three cylinder petrol to a 1.5 litre four-pot oil-burner that will be paired to either a six-speed manual transmission or the aforementioned 8-speed automatic. The one for enthusiasts to look out for though would be the upcoming 300 hp four-wheel-drive PSE hot hybrid variant.
Stepping inside the 308, it is clear to see that Peugeot has significantly revamped the cabin of this latest iteration with a clean and crisp dashboard design setting the tone for the rest of the interior. There should also be significantly more space within the cabin, especially for rear seat occupants, of this new model too courtesy of its 55 mm growth in wheelbase over its predecessor.
As for tech highlights within the interior, the 308 features Peugeot’s latest i-Connect Advanced 10-inch central infotainment system with added connectivity features like voice activation and a row of individually configurable i-toggle switches just beneath it. This is in addition to an equally large i-Cockpit digital instrument cluster that sits behind the smaller, sportier, two-spoke multi-function steering wheel, as well as a new button-operated gear selector and a new drive mode switch.
Other upmarket niceties included within this Peugeot mid-sized hatchback are a wireless charging pad, embossed leather upholstery and thicker glass windows for better sound insulation. Select higher tier trim levels of the new 308 also includes 10-way electrically adjustable front seats with a programmable pneumatic massage system, a new Air Quality System cabin filtration system, LED interior ambient lighting and a 10-speaker Focal sound system.
Moving onto the topic of safety, the new 308’s Drive Assist 2.0 active safety suite supposedly represents ‘a further step towards autonomous driving’ for the automaker. In tangible terms, this therefore means that Peugeot has added a highly advanced adaptive cruise control with Stop and Go function that brings with it semi-automatic lane change, anticipated speed recommendation and curve speed adaptation at speeds of up to 180 km/h. Available on the new model too are long-range blind spot monitoring of up to 75 metres, in addition to the standard comprehensive active safety suite as seen on the current car.
To be built in Peugeot’s Mulhouse plant in France, European customers will be able to witness the new 308 in dealerships by late 2021. No word yet though on whether we Malaysians will be able to do the same over here.
PRESS RELEASE: 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, and are complemented by advanced petrol and diesel powertrains. With a range of new trim levels, the new Peugeot 308 will arrive in showrooms in late 2021.
Continuing Peugeot’s incredible success in the compact family car segment, the new 308 sets new standards for the class. Proudly wearing the brand’s new logo, the latest design of the new Peugeot 308 showcases its dynamism and distinct identity, whilst setting the tone for future Peugeot models.
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.
The new 308 is available with two plug-in hybrid powertrains as well as efficient petrol and diesel engines, giving buyers the power of choice to choose the powertrain that best meets their needs. By 2025 Peugeot will offer an electrified variant across its entire model line-up.
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.
The new 308 will be available with seven colour options: Olivine Green, Bianca White, Cumulus Grey, Nera Black, Pearlescent White, Vertigo Blue and Elixir Red.
NEW Peugeot i-Cockpit
Peugeot’s class-leading i-Cockpit interior is a key part of the brand’s design DNA and with each generation it has been enhanced, refined and modernised.
The new Peugeot 308 marks a clear change in terms of ergonomics, quality, design and technology with a brand-new infotainment system, the Peugeot i-Connect.
Conveniently located at eye level, the 10-inch digital instrument cluster gives the driver access to crucial information without having to take their eyes off the road. On GT models the cluster features a 3D display. Fully configurable and customisable, this digital screen has several display modes, including those for the TomTom connected navigation, media source, driving aids and energy flow.
A key development is the small steering wheel, which features sensors to detect the driver’s grip levels when using driving aids. Ergonomically designed, it also includes fingertip controls for the radio, media, telephone and driving aids.
Innovative “high-vent” architecture places the air vents in the optimum position for efficiency and comfort. This layout also ensures that the standard 10-inch central touch screen, located slightly lower than the digital cluster, is closer to the driver’s hand and eye line for easier and safer operation.
Starting at the Allure level, the new Peugeot 308 features fully configurable virtual i-toggles. Positioned alongside the central screen, they deliver both a sleeker design and enhanced ease-of-use. Each touch sensitive i-toggle offers a personalised shortcut key to numerous functions, including the air conditioning settings, a telephone contact, a radio station or an application launch.
The careful and distinctive interior design places all the car’s dynamic controls together on the driver’s side:
- A new compact control for impulse selection of the modes (Reverse, Neutral, Drive) and two buttons (Parking and Manual) of the eight-speed automatic gearbox
- A Driving Style Selector to select different driving modes (Electric, Hybrid, Eco, Normal and Sport) depending on the powertrain
The design for the passenger has also been optimised, with the centre console opening towards them. Reflecting the compact design of the new air conditioning unit, it allows more space than ever for storage and convenience and features a dedicated slot for wireless smartphone charging. Also included are:
- Two large-diameter cup holders
- Two USB C sockets (charge and charge/data)
- Storage space up to 34 litres
The bold interior design also highlights the variety and quality of materials that have been used in its construction. LED ambient lighting features eight colour options where it lights up the door panels which, depending on the trim level, features soft touch foam, fabric, or Alcantara.
Peugeot i-CONNECT AND i-CONNECT ADVANCE
Peugeot’s new i-Connect infotainment system delivers a new level of connectivity for drivers and passengers. Ergonomic and intuitive, it allows up to eight different drivers to set their own personalised profiles, while the screen mirroring function is now wireless with the smartphone charging plate and two phones can be connected using Bluetooth at the same time.
The central 10-inch high-definition screen is fully customisable and is as easy to use and responsive as a tablet, thanks to multi-window “widgets” and shortcuts. It’s simple to scan the different menus from left to right and from top to bottom for notifications. Alternatively, a 3-finger press will make the application list appear, while returning to the main screen requires little more than touching the ‘home’ button, just like a smartphone.
At the top of the screen, a permanent banner displays outdoor temperature information, air conditioning, position in widget pages, connectivity data, notifications and time.
For optimal readability, the map for the TomTom connected navigation is displayed across the entire 10-inch screen, while quick and easy “remote updates” ensure drivers benefit from the fastest and most efficient routes.
The ‘OK Peugeot’ voice command further enhances ease-of-use and safety. Using speech recognition, it can be used to access many infotainment functions.
CLASS-LEADING TECHNOLOGY AND DRIVER AIDS
The new Peugeot 308 features the latest generation driving aids which help to keep both occupants and other road users safe. The Drive Assist pack (available at the end of the year) includes adaptive cruise control with Stop and Go function (when fitted with the EAT8 automatic gearbox) and Lane Keeping Assistance. It also has three new functions for use on dual carriageways and motorways:
- Semi-automatic lane change – The driver suggests a lane change manoeuver by setting the direction indicators. The system performs a semi-automatic lane change manoeuver if appropriate conditions are met and confirmed by the driver
- Anticipated speed recommendation – the system suggests to the driver that they adapt their speed (acceleration or deceleration) according to the speed limit signs
- Curve speed adaptation – at speeds of up to 112mph (where legal) the set-up optimises the car’s speed according to the severity of the bend
Other new features available as standard or as an option on the new Peugeot 308 include:
- Long-range blind spot monitoring (75 metres)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- High-definition 180° reversing camera with integrated cleaning nozzle
- 360° surround view parking assistance with four cameras (front, rear and both sides)
- Peugeot Open & Go
- Heating for the windscreen and steering wheel
- E-call+ emergency call with passenger number information and location, including the direction of the vehicle in the lane
- Indexing the rear-view door mirrors when engaging reverse gear
Of course, new 308 continues to offer the same comprehensive array of equipment as its predecessor, which depending on the trim level includes:
- Adaptive cruise control with Stop and Go function (EAT8 automatic gearbox)
- Adaptive cruise control within adjustable distance available from 18mph on models with a manual gearbox
- Automatic emergency braking with collision warning and pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Active lane keeping assistance
- Driver attention alert
- Automatic high beam
- Traffic sign recognition
- Perimeter, volume and deadlocking alarm
- Electric parking brake
SPACE AND STRENGTH
Built on an evolution of Peugeot’s innovative and adaptable EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform) structure, the new 308 is stronger, safer and more spacious than ever. It also allows the option of electrified powertrains for the first time, while new structural elements deliver even greater efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort.
Bigger and more spacious than before, the new 308 offers class-leading practicality and comfort. Although only 11mm longer than its predecessor, the new 308’s wheelbase has been increased by 55mm.
The boot has a generous 412 litres of luggage capacity, with a further 28 litres of storage in a hidden compartmentalised area beneath the floor. With the rear seats folded flat, the maximum capacity increases to 1,323-litres.
Driving pleasure is at the heart of the new Peugeot 308, with exemplary road holding and comfort. The new design has resulted in improved rigidity and reduction in unwanted vibrations.
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.
Further separating occupants from the outside world is the improved glazing used on the new Peugeot 308, which includes the availability of:
- Increased window thickness at the front and rear
- Acoustic laminated side panes in the front doors depending on version
- A frameless interior rear-view mirror that on hybrid models includes a Cyan-coloured LED that is illuminated when the vehicle is being driven in zero emissions mode
The reduced noise levels allow for an even greater appreciation of the optional FOCAL Premium Hi-Fi system. Developed over three years in partnership with the French audio specialists, the 10 speaker set-up features a number of exclusive patented technologies, including:
- Four aluminium inverted dome TNF tweeters
- Three woofers with Polyglass membrane and 165mm TMD (Tuned Mass Damper) suspension
- One central speaker with woofer
These are connected to a new 690W 12-channel amplifier (boosted class D technology) that features cutting edge ARKAMYS digital sound processing. The Peugeot and FOCAL teams worked together to establish the perfect locations for each loudspeaker in order to offer all occupants a sensational sound experience. On board, the sound stage is stable and precise, the voices are clear and detailed, and the bass is deep and impactful.
The new Peugeot 308 will be produced in France at the Mulhouse plant and will be available to order and buy from Peugeot Retailers and via Peugeot Buy Online later in the year. Buy Online allows customers to configure and order their vehicle entirely online and makes purchasing a car online simple and convenient. Customers can configure their vehicle, obtain a part exchange valuation, personalise their finance and complete their purchase including home delivery options where available, all from the comfort of their own home.
