Peugeot is a brand that has truly transformed its fortunes around in recent years, changing from a mainstream carmaker to a more premium-focused one that’s now capable of knocking on the doors of more upmarket rivals.
And the brand’s new third-generation 308 aims to continue with this in the popular family hatchback class, offering something more upmarket than run-of-the-mill options like the Ford Focus and Kia Ceed.
Set to arrive in showrooms in the next few months, here’s what you need to know about it.
Bold new design
Peugeot’s designers have been producing some stunning cars in recent years, from the 508 executive model through to the 208 supermini. This new 308 also follows the path, and is even more striking than the outgoing car, which itself is a stylish option.
So the new 308 is the first model to wear Peugeot’s new logo and gets a bold frameless front grille that runs into sharp LED headlights which also feature the brand’s large vertical LED running lights. The latter aims to look like a claw, which is a nod to the lion on the Peugeot logo.
Upgraded i-Cockpit interior design
The ‘i-Cockpit’ is something Peugeot is now known for, with the brand taking a unique approach to interior design. This latest 308 continues to use that familiar layouyt, but Peugeot says it ‘marks a clear change in terms of ergonomics, quality, design and technology.
The new 308 also comes with the new ‘i-Connect’ infotainment system, which offers significant improvements in connectivity, as well as wireless technology for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also boasts a new voice service operated with the words ‘Ok Peugeot.
Range of new safety features
Peugeot has really stepped up the range of safety features available on the latest 308, which the firm claims are class-leading. A Drive Assist package will be offered shortly, and brings together features such as adaptive cruise control, semi-automatic lane changes and lane keep assist.
Other bits of technology available include a longer-range blind spot monitoring that can see hazards up to 75 metres away, a 360-degree surround camera system and rear cross traffic alert, which helps to prevent parking collisions.
More interior space than before – and estate version continues to be offered
As well as cramming in all this additional technology, Peugeot has also made the 308 roomier than its predecessor. In fact, this new car has a wheelbase that’s 55mm longer than before, with a boot measuring 412 litres - it’s larger than that found in rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, in fact.
For those wanting something roomier, Peugeot also offers the 308 SW estate model. With a boot measuring 608 litres with the rear seats upright, or 1,634 litres with them folded, it will be a very practical tool for families.
Hybrid powertrains offered for the first time
Peugeot already has a broad range of electrified models available and things are improving further with the new 308, which is available as a plug-in hybrid option for the first time.
Its petrol-electric setup delivers up to 222bhp, while Peugeot claims it can do up to 36 miles once the battery is fully charged. For those not yet sure about a hybrid, conventional petrol and diesel engines will still be available, with all engines now using an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The new Peugeot 308 and 308 SW are available to order now, with prices starting from £24,000 and £25,200 respectively.
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