The Peugeot 308, one of the Volkswagen Golf’s main rivals, was updated last year. The third generation introduced several innovations. In addition to major design upgrades, French engineers focused on technology, electrification and improved perceived quality. Dimensions also grow, almost 11 cm more, and the equipment becomes really rich, with equipment that the main German compact sedans will envy.
We had a chance to ride on one of the most interesting versions equipped with 225 hp plug-in power unit. Thus, it was an opportunity to get a first look at the driving dynamics of the new French car, as well as evaluate the effectiveness of the hybrid system and check the actual range in electric-only mode.
- DIMENSIONS AND DESIGN
- INTERIOR AND TRUNK
- CONNECTIONTo AND INFORMATION AND ENTERTAINMENT
- ADAS SYSTEMS
- MOTOR
- ROAD TEST
- CONSUMPTION AND AUTONOMY IN ELECTRICITY
- PRICES
Peugeot 308 stands on EMP2 platform which allows you to create cars, also equipped with electrified engines. Car measures 4 meters and 36 in lengthalmost 11 cm more than before, and also grows in width by 5 cm, now 1 meter and 85. Therefore, the step could not therefore grow, 2 meters and 68, even here 5 cm are dialed, which are concentrated almost all on the inside.
In fact, the rear is more comfortable, as there is more legroom and headroom, even if other competitors do better, especially in terms of seat ergonomics. Speaking of design, the new Peugeot 308 looks more refined on the outside than the previous generation. Clean lines, full LED matrix technology up front, 18-inch dual trim wheels and an overall sense of sophistication that elevates it and in many ways almost touches what can be considered the premium sector of this segment.
As mentioned above, the large dimensions of the car allow have more space in the cabin. Compared to the past, the new generation is taking a decisive step forward, especially in terms of perceived quality and technology.
On the new 308 we find Peugeot classic cabs, a trademark, with a small steering wheel located below and a standard digital instrument panel located on a raised platform. A toolkit that, among other things, can have a 3D effect. Turning your eyes to the center, you can see the new center tunnel, especially detailed, with wired control of the automatic transmission, two cup holders, a shelf for charging a cordless phone and another compartment for emptying pockets at the bottom.
There is also a comfortable center armrest, with a compartment inside and two USB C connectors to charge our devices. The GT package, at the top of the range, has leather, cloth and Alcantara electrically adjustable and massage seats, in addition to soft lighting, a Focal sound system and more.
Let’s move on to luggage. The handle is hidden under a glossy black profile and, opening it, 412 liters available plus another 28 liters for more than 10 storage spaces in the cabin. The new mechanical layout of the components meant that the gas tank was reduced from 52 liters to 40 liters and was now located under the rear seat. Maybe a little small for those who are going to make long journeys.
Speaking of technology, the new 308 can count on wireless mirroring for Android or Apple phonesso you don’t have to plug in a cable. Speaking of Android auto, it runs very smoothly, with great integration on the 10-inch screen of the new generation infotainment system.
Among other things, the navigation set from Google Maps is also duplicated with readings on digital instruments. It’s a pity, however, that this hides the ability to change the driving mode, but I expect this to be fixed in the next updates.
The system is still fluid, but not a splinter when switching from one screen to another, animation may also be to blame. Convenient digital i-tools shortcuts, large keys that refer us to the main functions, under which there are other physical keys for climate control and other functions. However, it comes with everything, including built-in data simulation and over-the-air updates.
As for driving assistance systems, we find a complete equipment that includes, among other things, adaptive cruise control with active lane keeping and many other systems that make life easier, especially in the city. The cruise, among other things, has a stop-and-go function, so it follows the slowdown on the motorway until the car comes to a halt and there is enough gas to restart it when the queue is gone.
Speaking of the transmission of this car, we find a hybrid system capable of delivering 225 hp. with a torque of 360 Nm. Power you can feel, especially in sport mode, when both engines provide maximum traction, 0 to 100 km/h in less than 7.5 seconds, up to maximum speed 235 km/h. By choosing electric mode instead, the car will only use 110 “electric” hp to drive quite smoothly as well as reactively.
Instead, when switching to hybrid mode, the control system will alternate between the two engines depending on some factors such as required traction, type of route, and remaining range. The transitions between the two motors are commendable, almost imperceptible without any vibration. But in general, the new 308 does a great job of soundproofing, in fact, noise is not perceived until the speed limit on the motorway.
The power unit is driven Battery 12.4 kWh and Peugeot claims a zero-emissions mileage of approximately 59 km under the WLTP cycle.
In terms of charging, the new Peugeot 308 has a 3.7kW AC onboard charger as standard, while a 7.4kW charger can be ordered at an additional cost. In general, it takes about 7 hours to fully charge a 2.3 kW home network. Among other things, an electronic save mode is also available, which allows us to set a battery limit in order to save a certain percentage for future use. Very interesting if you are planning to pass the zero emission section at the end of the trip.
Behind the wheel of the new 308, I think we must immediately overcome the first obstacle. Understand if you like the environment in the cockpit. Personally, I’m not a big fan of this solution because I’ve never managed to find the perfect position for my height or my driving style, but what creates some difficulty for me is the position of the pedals, in my opinion, too. close to the seat, even sending it far back, also sacrificing some headroom for rear passengers.
However, this is a very controversial aspect, I know many who appreciate this triangulation between steering wheel seat and pedals instead, so I just have to ask you what you think obviously if you had the opportunity to board a Peugeot. car model.
In terms of chassis and handling, I really appreciate the 308’s big evolution over the past. We always see a MacPherson in the front and a torsion beam in the back, but unlike in the past, the shocks now handle both the driest potholes and motorway jolts just fine. Automobile definitely stable, accurate and safe under any circumstances, but, on the other hand, perhaps there is a more pronounced roll. Perhaps thanks to curb weight up to 1700 kg, with a hybrid component of about 200 kg, making it slower when changing direction and less maneuverable in fast mixed mode. However, it drives very well, preferring a more touring style to a sporty one.
So, how much did the new Peugeot 308 consume in our short test and how many miles did we manage to drive on electricity alone? It should be noted that the test was carried out on one outdoor temperature 32 degrees with air conditioning almost always on, in urban areas. In these conditions I could not exceed 43 km, with one foot always smooth and in B mode, or always on the brake, recharging the batteries more during braking. They probably would have gained another 6/7 km without air conditioning.
How the car behaves low battery? Pretty good, I must say, the electric unit always starts the car from a standstill, up to about 25 km / h, and only after that the gasoline engine turns on. The electric motor also supports acceleration, providing the instantaneous acceleration needed to fill the gaps found in turbocharged engines. So the average city consumption is really interesting, about 17.5 km/lalways with the air conditioner on. It drops a little as soon as we leave the countryside, in the region of 16 km / l. In many places, the car is able to drive with an electric motor, despite the mark of 0 km for autonomy.
On the track it was also positive, with average mileage around 15 km per liter, with a rather forgiving driving style. However, when needed, 225 hp of traction is always available to quickly overtake or overcome a mountain road. Obviously, a modern diesel can do better on the highway in terms of fuel consumption, but the hybrid makes up for it, especially in the city, being able to properly use household chargers or public speakers.
Price list The new Peugeot 308 starts from 26,420 euros for gasoline in the Active Pack. On the other hand, the 180hp hybrid version starts at 37,900 euros, while our 225hp hybrid and GT Pack setup, at the top of the range, has a list price of 44,600 euros. Don’t forget, however, about the possibility of obtaining environmental incentives for the plug-in, which give a discount of up to 4,000 euros in case of recycling.
PEUGEOT 308 ONLINE CONFIGURATOR
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Source: HD Motori
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.