French car manufacturer Peugeot has unveiled the third generation of the 308. Among other things, the grown compact class model is available with two plug-in hybrid drives.
Peugeot 308
Peugeot
The new Peugeot 308 is 11 cm longer than its predecessor. It is based on the Efficient Modular Platform (EMP2) and measures 4367 mm in length, 1852 mm in width and 1441 mm in height. The 55 mm longer wheelbase is intended to benefit rear passengers in particular. In addition to the saber-tooth look of the daytime running lights, the new and large logo emblem in the radiator grille integrating radar technology is striking. The beefy design with the wide flared fenders features a familiar wide C-pillar at the rear as well as taillights with the brand’s typical three-claw design.
The interior features a new 10" digital iCockpit, which is also available in a 3-D version. The iConnect infotainment system with 10" touchscreen on the center console is multi-window capable with widgets or shortcuts. The physical piano keys for quick selection of climate control, radio, or navigation give way to virtual i-toggles starting in the higher trim levels of Allure. In higher trim levels, 3-D real-time navigation from TomTom is included.
Peugeot 308 with two PHEV powertrains
Depending on trim, driver assistance systems include emergency brake assist, blind spot warning with rear cross traffic alert, parking assist and rearview camera or traffic sign recognition. The optional Drive-Assist 2.0 package offers adaptive cruise control with congestion function as well as semi-automatic lane change or speed recommendation.
Peugeot’s new motto in the powertrain segment is “Power of Choice.” In the 308, there is a choice between a 1.2-l gasoline three-cylinder engine (81 kW/110 PS and 96 kW/130 PS) and a diesel engine (1.5-l with 96 kW/130 PS). Depending on the version, power is transmitted via a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. The two PHEV variants are always equipped with automatic transmission and are said to offer a purely electric range of around 60 km. In the 308 Hybrid 225 e-EAT8, a 133-kW (181 PS) gasoline engine is coupled with an 81-kW electric motor. The 308 Hybrid 180 e-EAT8 brings it to 110 kW (150 PS) and the power of the e-motor. For the 12.4-kWh lithium-ion battery, an on-board charger 3.7 kW 1-phase is available as standard with an optional on-board charger 7.4 kW 1-phase.