Press Release
Naturally efficient
At its launch in September the 308 will become the first model to carry a number ending in 8. It will build on the strengths of its predecessor, of which more than three million have been sold in 6 years, thanks to its concept based on a semi-high architecture, design, interior space, interior light levels and a unanimously recognised high standard of road holding. As a vehicle of a new generation, it develops further the plus points and at the same time decelops new ones, mainly in favour of environmental efficiency and quality.
With this aim in mind, particular attention has been paid to aerodynamics in order to improve the overall performance. As a result, the 308 has a low drag resistance (SCx 0.67 and Cx 0.29), resulting in a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The 308 will be available with a choice of six lean burn engines, including three petrol engines, developed as part of the partnership with the BMW Group, and three HDi diesel engines, one of which will have an emission level of 120 g CO2 per kilometre in the combined cycle.
In addition to the engine range available, the designers of the 308 have also used different solutions to improve environmental efficiency. Consequently, the 308 will have a manual gearbox with an electronic control system, electro-hydraulic power assisted steering and new Michelin Energy Saver tyres, to achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption and therefore in exhaust emissions. Finally, the European End-of-Life Vehicles Directive has been taken into account in the choice of materials allowing the recycling or re-use of 99% of the 308.
The 308 project has benefited from the full attention and creative energy of the Peugeot engineers and designers, who have committed themselves to create a car whose quality is of the highest standard. Designed by the Peugeot Design Centre, the elegant, sporty lines of the 308 invoke dynamism and efficiency, whereas the forms and materials of the interior offer the occupants a prestigious style and finish. But the design - the first "force" of the emotion and feeling that triggers the ultimate act of buying - has exceeded its aesthetic function, by also emphasising the perceived quality of the vehicle.
In designing the 308 it was not sufficient just to rely on the qualities of the interior, the high levels of interior light and the driving pleasure that contributed to the success of the 307, but instead evolve these in order to take them to a new level. This applies particularly to the interior, which takes full advantage of the available length of 4,276 m to establish what will be a reference in the segment. The interior light levels have been improved even more thanks to the fitment of a glass panoramic roof; which provides a total glazed area of 4.86 m2. With this configuration the five door hatchback offers overhead natural light to all the passengers on board. And finally, Peugeot's know-how with regard to suspension systems has resulted in choices that give the 308 a high level of driving pleasure and an excellent compromise between comfort and efficiency.
In addition to its exemplary handling, the 308 is equipped with technology aimed at providing the highest levels of safety. This includes, the Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) for the benefit of primary safety, the airbags, which can number up to nine, for secondary safety, and finally, the Peugeot Emergency Service (emergency call) linked to the RT4 telematics system, for tertiary safety.
With the 308, Peugeot is offering a vehicle that will meet the expectations of customers of the compact hatchback market, which is the largest market because of the volumes it generates in Western Europe in particular. In fact, with nearly five million vehicle registrations in 2006, it represents approximately one third of the allÂÂÂÂbrands market and has increased slightly since 2001, the year when the 307 was first introduced. This market is made up of a diverse clientele. Although essentially made up of families, this clientele has a varied profile; both in terms of age and car experience, but they all want a prestigious vehicle that does not compromise on performance.
The 308 will be launched within a particularly short time frame, the day after the Frankfurt Motor Show, where it will have its world premiere. The 308 will be available in the main European countries between the 20th September - the date of the commercial launch in France - and the 27th September.
It is fitting that this new hatchback should share the semi-tall architecture which first appeared on the 307. It enables, in addition to the recognised qualities of all of the Marque's models (dynamic styling, class leading handling, etc), an optimised specification for this type of body shape. It provides interior space, visibility, brightness and compact packaging and the qualitative points of reference which have already won more than three million buyers for the 307 worldwide.
The 308 therefore builds on the 307's technical platform, but develops it further in order to meet the project's high objectives: an assertive style, comprehensive specification and a high level of quality.
During its design, the engineers and stylists have paid particular attention to the perceived quality and "quality feel". With the 308, Peugeot has blended in all the ingredients to appeal to a highly diversified customer base in search of self expression, modernity, attention to detail, control and convenience.
An exterior style more feline than ever
The 308 embodies in its own way the characteristic Peugeot genes that give all of the Marque's models their strong identity. Strengthening the obvious feline look is two esigns of "front" both with a different finish depending on the model: one is a "classic" style (for the entry level model); the other is more dynamic or "sporty".
The strongly contoured lines of the "nose" of the car serve as the focal point and create a dynamic and flowing "V" profile which follows back from the bonnet into the front windscreen pillars. The profile of the 308 creates a dynamic impression of movement, thanks to the elaborately styled panels and flowing design of the windows.
The lines at the rear of the vehicle help to identify it. The large wrap around lower bumper - which on top-of-the-range models combines with a rear diffuser - and large rear lights emphasises the wider rear profile and the large curved rear tailgate glass.
A new and original interior
The style of the interior is perfectly in keeping with the exterior architecture, with the adoption of a steeply inclined fascia panel to accentuate the feeling of space. Its fluid and elegant design coupled with the use of high quality materials (both to look at and to touch) creates an impression of quality seldom encountered in models in this market segment. The use of large expanses of glass combined with a panoramic glass roof (as standard or as an option depending on version) creates a bright interior conducive to user-friendliness and the wellbeing of occupants. Rear passengers will be particularly at ease in the 308 thanks to its generous interior space resulting from its architecture and the design of the front seats.
The attention to detail enjoyed by the occupants of the 308 is part of an approach designed to ensure their utmost wellbeing, thanks in particular to important work carried out on the control of the interior temperature and noise insulation, and also the availability of numerous and ingenious storage spaces.
Dynamic efficiency: exceptional road holding
The chassis and suspension of the 308, assisted by the excellent body rigidity, have been meticulously developed to obtain the best possible combination of road holding and comfort, making the 308 a benchmark in its category. The electro-hydraulic power steering offers the driver maximum precision, assured by pseudo McPherson type front struts and a rear torsion beam. In addition, a wider front and rear track and larger tyres (up to 18'') enhances the overall efficiency of the vehicle.
Environmental efficiency
The search to lessen the environmental impact of the vehicle was a key objective in all stages of development of the 308. Whether it was with regards to recycling, aerodynamics, its petrol and diesel engines based on recent or original technology, the additive-based diesel particle filter system on the HDi diesel versions, its wheels and suspension (including Michelin Energy Saver tyres and electro-hydraulic power steering), reducing weight (involving the use of composite materials, aluminium and high-strength steel), everything has been carefully studied to optimise fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions. Indeed, the CO2 emissions of the 1.6 litre HDi 66kW (90bhp) 308 has been reduced to just 120 g in the combined cycle.
A wide range of modern, high-performance engines that are economical and environmentally-friendly
The 308 offers a wide choice of power trains; there are 10 in all, to meet the requirements of
the broadest possible customer base: three petrol engines, three HDi diesel engines and five gearboxes.
Petrol versions of the 308 feature the most recent engines developed jointly by the PSA Peugeot Citroën group and the BMW Group:
- 1.4 litre VTi 70 kW (5 95 bhp), 136 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox
- 1.6 litre VTi 88 kW 16v (5 120 bhp), 160 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox (*)
- 1.6 litre VTi 88 kW 16v (5 120 bhp), 160 Nm, 4-speed automatic gearbox
- 1.6 litre THP 110 kW (5 150 bhp), 240 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox (*)
- 1.6 litre THP 103 kW (5 140 bhp), 240 Nm, 4-speed automatic gearbox
The 308 HDi offer consists of engines all featuring HDi direct injection technology:
- 1.6 litre HDi 66 kW (5 90 bhp), 215 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox
- 1.6 litre HDi 80 kW (5 110 bhp), 240 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox (*)
- 1.6 litre HDi 80 kW (5 110 bhp), 240 Nm, 6-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox
- 2.0 litre HDi 100 kW (5 136 bhp), 320 Nm, 6-speed manual gearbox (*)
- 2.0 litre HDi 100 kW (5 136 bhp), 320 Nm, 6-speed automatic gearbox
(*) engines and gearbox options available at the time of launch; others wil follow shortly after the launch.
Maximum efficiency in terms of safety
The objective to provide exemplary road holding forms the basis of the primary safety of the 308. This is supplemented by a range of equipment such as a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and bi-Xenon directional headlamps.
At the level of secondary safety, the structure (particularly through the use of 3 impact absorption structures at the front) and bodywork that has been designed in terms of its rigidity and ability to deform in a controlled manner, provides optimal impact protection. In addition, the 308 can be equipped with up to 9 airbags, including 2 rear side air bags and a steering column air bag. According to countries, the "Peugeot Emergency" service, linked to the RT4 telematics system, ensures tertiary safety by pinpointing the vehicle's location and organising the dispatch of appropriate assistance.
Colours, trims and structure of the range
With 12 exterior body colours, 5 trim levels, different choices of interior ambience, cloth or leather trim, and even an integral leather fascia panel, the 308 knows how to play the "exclusive" card to appeal to customers.
