The new Peugeot 308 is in town!

THE NEW PEUGEOT 308

A refined design, an innovative cockpit inspired interior and low CO2 emissions for unprecedented sensations

PEUGEOT designers and engineers have designed an audacious, intuitive and modern hatchback with a pure and sleek design.

Utilising the accomplished EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform 2), the new PEUGEOT 308 has compact dimensions (4.25m) and a much reduced weight compared to its predecessor (-140kg). Its driving experience is unprecedented and its power represent a record for 1.2 litre with 129 hp / 96kW.

The choice of a refined interior with innovative instruments and controls, the all new PEUGEOT i-Cockpit provides new driving sensations.

Its high level of quality, the result of a very ambitious specification, aims to place the car among the very best, the embodiment of the marque’s range enhancement.

A market dominated by hatchbacks

The new PEUGEOT 308 is part of the strategic C segment, which represents a third of all sales in Europe. It is a dynamic and very competitive market in which the hatchback remains the most popular body style of the segment (43%), far ahead of the SUV/CUV (Sports Utility Vehicle/Crossover Utility Vehicle) at 26% and the MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) at 16%.

Customers are mainly couples, not necessarily with children at home. They like hatchbacks and are clearly aware of evolving technology and the environment. They like motoring and are especially looking for high quality products.

To win over new customers, the new PEUGEOT 308 is positioned as a strong and different alternative with a design focused on four key themes: efficiency, design, driving experience and quality.

AN EFFICIENT DESIGN

A lighter and space-efficient hatchback, in step with customer expectations

The efficiency of the new PEUGEOT 308 is inspired on a virtuous process of weight reduction. It offers compact dimensions and much reduced in weight. The space inside the passenger compartment and the particularly large boot are in line with the expectations of its customers.

With a length of 4.25m, the new PEUGEOT 308 is the most compact hatchback in its segment. It is also lower, with a height of 1.47m and wider with a width of 1.80m. The front and rear overhangs have been reduced, due to the new EMP2 platform which makes it possible to place the wheels nearer to the ‘four corners’. These dimensions define a resolutely dynamic posture promising a spacious interior.

The 470-litre boot volume, of which 35-litres are divided storage compartments under the floor mat, is also a record space in the segment. The low loading sill and the wide opening make loading the rectangular and accommodating space easy.

A reduction of 140kg and innovative choices for a virtuous design

With a 140kg reduction in weight the new PEUGEOT 308 is also the lightest vehicle in the segment. To achieve this performance, the designers used as their starting point the new EMP2 platform. It permits a breakthrough reduction in weight of around 70kg, in three key areas:

  • 27kg saved by using innovative steels, composites and aluminium
  • 10kg reduction obtained by means of innovative assembly processes
  • 33kg eliminated due to an optimized design

To achieve the 140kg reduction in weight, a further 70kg was saved in addition to the reduction obtained through use of the platform. The weight of each component has been optimized while leaving its level of performance intact. The front wings and the bonnet are constructed in aluminium. This technological choice is usually reserved for premium vehicles.

The use of high strength steel, innovative materials and the redesigning of components have permitted considerable reductions in weight. As a world first, the tailgate is formed using a composite material called ThermoplasticThis both light and rigid material reduces the weight of the tailgate by 3kg.

State-of-the-art aerodynamic design to enhance economy

The new PEUGEOT 308 benefits from a design with an excellent aerodynamic shape and detailing. With a Cd of 0.28 and a CdA of 0.63m², it is among the best of hatchbacks in the segment. The controlled air inlets and the aero-screens under the body of the EMP2 platform form an integrated flat underside, greatly contributing to this aero performance, despite the challenges for this type of body shape. The aerodynamic properties, like the effect of weight, are key factors for reducing the vehicle’s  environmental  footprint.

Efficient and technological engines for record low CO2 emissions

Latest generation petrol engine equip the new PEUGEOT 308: the accomplished 3-cylinder PureTech petrol turbo engine and new generation 6-speed automatic gearbox. The maximum power is 129bhp for petrol CO2 emissions from 117g/km and fuel economy of up to 5.1 l/100 km.

A PURE AND SLEEK DESIGN

A unique exterior style

“The new PEUGEOT 308 has a highly-refined and technological exterior design which has a fully- justified impression of strength and quality”

Gilles Vidal, Director, PEUGEOT Design

Sleek and dynamic, the new PEUGEOT 308 has well-balanced proportions. Pure lines which follow the engineering structure create a sturdy appearance and a precise balance between elegance, sportiness and high-quality.

At the front, a large centrally-placed grille, surrounded with chrome, emphasizes the upmarket elegance of the new PEUGEOT 308. Full LED headlamps are specified as standard for Allure trim. This is a world first for hatchback. They create a strong light signature. Thin, expressive and sculpted, they have the characteristic feline appearance, focused and technological.

In the lower area, a wide air intake is framed by fog lamps and direction indicators, set into a chromed surround in the shape of a ‘C’ curve, open on each side towards the outside. The whole shape gives fullness to the front face of the vehicle, and produces the effect of dynamism and strength.

The different design of the lower front panel features on the Active trim with LED daytime running lights are equipped with halogen lights to retain their dynamic and stylish expression.

From the bonnet emerge the lines which fashion with precise character of the new PEUGEOT 308. The smooth exterior mirror, in the shape of a pebble, incorporates a LED directional indicator, confirming that purity and quality go hand in hand.

The window profiles over the top side of the body illustrate a spacious passenger compartment. Dressed with full chrome window surrounds, present on the Allure model, place the vehicle at a premium level. The characteristic PEUGEOT triangular rear quarter panel, centred over the wheel, emphasizes the strong character of the new 308.

The rear view has a pyramid silhouette, characterising a vehicle firmly planted on the road. The tailgate, with a curve continuing on from the line which runs around the entire body, brings to mind the elegance of the inspirational SR1 Concept car. A second horizontal line widens the rear attitude at the base and highlights a low loading sill aperture.

The rear lamps reinforce the technological and dynamic image of the vehicle. They take up the curve theme and three PEUGEOT lion claws, outlined by LEDs. Present on all levels of trim, they are a first in the C segment.

A refined and technological interior

“When seated on board the New 308 occupants discover a world of refined lines, completely unprecedented in the world of hatchbacks, with an innovative and intuitive environment, controlled and viewed through the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit ”

Vincent Devos, Manager, New PEUGEOT Product

The new PEUGEOT 308 offers an innovative interior: with the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit. This consists of four integrated  components: a  compact steering wheel  for intense dynamic sensations, a high- positioned ‘head up’ instrument panel to easily read the information without taking the driver’s eyes off the road ahead, an enhancing high centre console and a large 9.7” touch screen for intuitive driving.

The design of the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit is both pure and technological.

The horizontal console and the top of the dashboard position it at a premium level. It offers panoramic reading with fluid, dynamic and structured lines. Fully padded, the dashboard extends to the windscreen in a continuous movement.

The virtual absence of buttons combined with the use of upmarket materials brings a purity not presently available in the market. The large 9.7” touch screen, surrounded by vents finely designed in the shape of a tuning fork, is set in a high quality satin chrome cocoon. The volume button, like a Hi-Fi object, is pure and technological, surrounded by a ring of white light. Satin chrome decorations enhance the controls on the centre console and front doors. From their appearance, all of these upmarket components are designed to integrate perfectly and permit fits of the very highest quality.

The textiles and materials used in the passenger compartment are also of very high quality. The steering wheel is trimmed in full grain leather and incorporates black lacquered and satin chrome inserts. The seats are either comfort (for Active) or Dynamic (for Allure) type.

The instrument panel is located in a high position, over rather than through the compact-sized steering wheel, and is slender and perfectly integrated, extending as far as the touch screen. The cockpit effect is amplified by the orientation of the components towards the driver and by the high centre console, a feature characteristic of the higher segment vehicles.

The instrument panel has been designed as a technological object of great precision. The instrument binacles are stretched over a significant width and the symmetrical rotation of the needles makes it easier to read the information arranged, over the compact steering wheel. This arrangement makes it more possible to focus the driver’s attention on the upper part of the instrument panel, so that they don’t have to deviate from their forward view of the road. The red needles, finely sculpted, are a reference to the world of precision clock-making. On Allure model, they are finished with chrome detailing, like the surround of the speedometer and rev counter. In this case, the dials offer a special graduation and a ‘dark’ panel function which conceals the indicator lamps and digits when stationary.

THE PEUGEOT I-COCKPIT, IMPROVING THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

A unique and clear driving experience

“After the 3008, 208 and 2008, each one appreciated and well-liked by customers, the PEUGEOT instruments and controls are becoming a real signature of identity and innovation. The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit of the new 308 evolves this further”

Xavier Peugeot, Director, PEUGEOT Product

Designed for a sensuous and intuitive driving experience, the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit offers a new kind of sensation. It makes taking control of the new PEUGEOT 308 simple and clear. With compact dimensions (351mm x 329mm), the steering wheel makes manoeuvring much easier and increases agility for driving sensations. Manoeuvres in town are carried out with great ease due its precise and informative electric power steering.

The large 9.7” touch screen brings together centrally all the controls. It permits selection of the following equipment: air conditioning, driving aids, multimedia, navigation, telephone and vehicle settings. The buttons providing direct access to the functions make operation of the touch screen clear. The information, concentrated on two pages, is easily accessible.

The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit is a strong customer choice which allows the new PEUGEOT 308 to offer a strong product alternative in the C segment.

PEUGEOT’s expertise for benchmark handling

“On the road, the driving pleasure is greatly enhanced by the new EMP2 modular platform. With a considerable reduction in weight, it contributes to the dynamism and manoeuvrability of the new PEUGEOT 308”

Laurent Declerck, Director, New PEUGEOT 308 Project

The driving experience of the new 308 is the result of continuous evolution in chassis development which has been characterised by PEUGEOT with expertise in this area for many years. The new 308 shares this prowess by further enhancing the best combination of ride and handling greatly enabled through the qualities of the new EMP2 platform.

The repositioning of the components and the reduced height of the new PEUGEOT 308 make it possible to lower the centre of gravity by 20mm. The body stability is improved and it also favours the aerodynamic properties. The EMP2 platform brings new suspension (Pseudo McPherson at the front and deformable crossmember at the rear) the weight of which has been reduced. The optimization of the suspension and wheels makes it possible to improve the turning circle radius by 30cm (10.4m between kerbs) for benchmark manoeuvrability. At the rear, the innovative location of the damper, which crosses the arm improves its performance, favouring comfort and handling.

The whole innovative design, reduces weight, reduces overhangs, lowers the centre of gravity, has electric power steering, a compact steering wheel, high-performance tyres and brakes, combined with PEUGEOT’s acknowledged expertise in the area of ride and handling to give the new PEUGEOT 308 benchmark handling. The result is an unprecedented combination of agility, comfort and road holding to a high level.

Technological driving aids for more tranquil driving

For even more comfortable and safe driving, the new PEUGEOT 308 is equipped with driving aids. For the comfort and safety of all, the new PEUGEOT 308 is fitted, as standard or as an option, with a range of equipment: blind spot monitoringelectric handbrakereversing camera using the large colour screen, keyless access and starting, Park Assist function, etc.

A DESIGN GUIDED BY QUALITY

Ambitious quality

The new PEUGEOT 308 is the embodiment of the range enhancement process started several years ago by the marque. A specification motivated by a high-quality imperative was expressed at all levels: design, choice of materials, assembly of components, soundproofing and durability.

The new PEUGEOT 308 successfully passed numerous tests of quality on use, among which:

2.5 million kilometres driven before the launch, 2,500 hours of tests on the 4-ram vibration and climate test beds, 250,000 cycles of air conditioning tested, 4.3 million presses on the touch screen without failure.

Manufacture in France

The Sochaux factory manufactures the new PEUGEOT 308. The French sites in Trémery and Douvrin supply all the powertrains.

THE NEW PEUGEOT 308 IN DETAIL

Compact dimensions

With a length of 4.25m, the new PEUGEOT 308 is the most compact hatchback in its segment. It is also low, with a height of 1.47m and a width of 1.80m. The front and rear overhangs have been reduced by 863 and 770mm respectively, due to the new EMP2 platform (Efficient Modular Platform 2), which permits placing of the wheels at the ‘four corners’. The wheelbase has been extended to 2.62m and the wider track at 1559mm at the front and 1553mm at the rear. These dimensions define a resolutely dynamic posture promising a spacious interior.

A spacious interior

The width at the elbows is 1440mm in the front and 1412mm in the rear. The vertical interior space reaches 895mm in row the front and 874mm in the rear. The passengers benefit from storage compartments arranged throughout the passenger compartment, with front door trays of 3.7-litres which can accommodate a 1.5-litre bottle of water.

The boot volume of 470-litres of which 35-litres are under the mat is a record in its segment. The low loading sill, situated at 691mm, and the extensive opening width (1068mm) make loading the rectangular and accommodating space easier. The 35-litres of divided storage compartments under the floor contribute to the full use of all of space available. Using all of the interior space of the vehicle in the rear, the maximum loading capacity  reaches  1309-litres.

The reduction in weight contributed by the new EMP2 platform

To lighten the new PEUGEOT 308 by 140kg, the designers used as their start-point the new EMP2 platform (Efficient Modular Platform 2). It permits a breakthrough reduction in weight of around 70kg, broken down as follows:

  • 27kg saved due to the use of innovative steels, composites and aluminium. The very high and ultra-high strength steels form 76% of the platform. The spare wheel floor is made entirely of composite materials and aluminium has been used on numerous components (front beam, rear beam, handbrake lever, etc.)
  • 10kg saving obtained by using innovative assembly processes: 12 metres of laser welding, use of hot stamping and variable thickness lamination, hydroforming of the deformable rear crossmember.
  • 33kg eliminated due to the intelligence of the design. Interface parts between the body and the engine or the suspension and wheels have been optimized and simplified. Modules such as the fuel tank have been lightened (the reduced size is linked with the reduced consumption). Others are available in variants which permit selection of the most appropriate module for the performance to avoid fitting needless excess weight. The power steering electric motors, for example, are available with three different levels of power.

The additional reductions in weight to achieve the 140kg total

To achieve the 140kg reduction in weight a further 70kg has been saved in addition the reduction due to the platform. The weight of each part has been optimised while leaving its level of performance intact. So, the door strengtheners are in high strength steel, saving 15kg. The front and rear seat frames have been redesigned reducing their weight by 14kg.

An innovative and light soundproofing material, preserving the acoustic qualities, has permitted a reduction of 9kg. As a world first, the tailgate is formed using a composite thermoplastic material. This light and rigid material reduces the weight of the tailgate by 3kg. The compactness of the new PEUGEOT 308 provides, for its part, a reduction of 12kg and adds to all the grammes and kilogrammes saved part by part.

Redesigned and lightened suspension and wheels

The driving experience of the new 308 is based on PEUGEOT’s expertise in the area of suspension and wheels and the qualities of the new EMP2 platform. Of the 116 patents filed, many address designs and aspects to the suspension and wheels.

The new platform brings new suspension (Pseudo McPherson at the front and deformable crossmember at the rear) the weight of which has been reduced thanks to the introduction of aluminium (subframe, brake calipers, etc.), Cobrapresse forged aluminium (front suspensions wishbones) or new technologies: hollow anti-roll bar, rear crossmember with thin wall in ultra or very high strength steel. A flow turning process has been used to reduce the weight of the 16” inch wheels by selectively reducing the thickness of the sheet metal on the wheel rims.

Finally, the stability control system changes generation (ESP Bosch v.9) and exploits the full potential of the vehicle’s well dimensioned braking (ventilated discs at the front of up to 304mm x 28mm). Hill Assist is offered with the ESP.

Technological advanced engine with low emissions of CO2

The driving pleasure provided by its high-performance engine combined with new automatic gearbox remains undiminished and faithful to the PEUGEOT spirit.

This efficient engine is combined with Very Low Rolling Resistance tyres to lower CO2 emissions. New technology offered on the new PEUGEOT 308 include the innovative PureTech 1.2 litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine with low COand fuel consumption in the segment (117-119g/km and 5.1-5.2 l/100 km) and new generation 6-speed automatic gearboxes.

  • 1.2 litre PureTech 96kW – 129bhp – 6-speed automatic gearbox – Euro 6

The new generation Efficient Automatic Transmission 6-speed (EAT6) gearbox (supplied by Aisin) guarantee a high level of driving pleasure with rapid gear changes and improved economy as a consequence. The difference in terms of emissions of CO2 compared to a manual gearbox is less than 10g/km.

New 3-cylinder turbo engines

The new 308 will be the first car of the PEUGEOT range to benefit from the turbocharged versions of the 3-cylinder petrol engine. The 1.2-litre PureTech, permit dynamic driving, notably due to the high torque produced. This engine anticipates Euro6 and adopts high pressure injection, 200 bars. To optimize the combustion, the fuel is sprayed in very fine droplets by means of the injectors the 6 holes of which are made by Laser Drilling. They are arranged as close as possible to the spark plugs in the centre of the combustion chamber, a performance linked with the extreme compactness of the cylinder head. The high performance achieved by this engine requires adapted thermo-management. So, it uses a controlled  thermostat  for  a  rapid  rise  in  temperature  followed  by  precise  regulation  of  the temperature. The cylinder liners are referred to as hybrid; each is covered with an aluminium coating which, on insertion in the block, is melted slightly. After cooling, the optimum adhesion between the block and the liners permits improved heat transfer.

With a high degree of technicality, the 1.2-litre PureTech has a weight lighter by 12kg compared to a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine of equivalent power, even though it has a turbo, a more considerable cooling system and offers dynamic performance linked with torque which is 45% higher. The improvement in economy is between 15 and 20% according to version.

A pure and sleek design for a unique hatchback

The designers have exploited the advantages of the new EMP2 platform which reduces the size of technical components and leaves more room to express style. The optimization of the under-floors, the lowered location of the engine and of the bonnet, the forward position of the wheels, have all made it possible to design a compact and low hatchback with reduced overhangs.

The bonnet is the starting point of numerous horizontal and precise lines which fashion the character of the new PEUGEOT 308. The shoulder line which connects the front and rear lamps, extends the bonnet and body waist line in a fluid and dynamic movement. The join between the bonnet and the windscreen side pillar is provided by a pure and full surface. It symbolises all the care taken by the designers to design parts with simple lines which favour a quality assembly.

The wheel arches, slightly contoured, are chamfered and set off flush wheels which fill the space reserved for them. On the side, the character line which starts from the rear lamp and extends to the front door handles contributes, by means of a light effect on the wing, to giving ‘muscle’ to the rear wheel. The body sill line visually reduces the height of the vehicle while the rear quarter panel, in the form of a triangle, centred on the wheel, emphasizes the strong character of the new PEUGEOT 308.

At the rear, the quarter lines which leave from the rear lamp towards the wheel or the tailgate emphasize the meticulous work of the designers to play with shadows and light and forge the character of the style of the new PEUGEOT 308.

The technology of the Full LED headlamps

The Full LED headlamps of the new PEUGEOT 308 also contribute to comfort and safety. They provide excellent visibility at night. Each headlamp consists of 31 LEDs (10 LEDs for the dipped headlamps, two modules of four micro-LEDs for the main beam headlamps, 13 LEDs for the light signature).

The great uniformity of the flux reduces eye fatigue and the lighting is perceived as being close to daylight. Immediately active, they permit sharp and instantaneous lighting, particularly on entering tunnels. The Full LED headlamps consume 50% less energy of light than the halogen headlamps and contribute to reducing the CO2 emissions.

The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit: a unique and clear driving experience

The new PEUGEOT 308 offers an innovative interior: the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit. It consists of four components: a compact steering wheel for intense dynamic sensations, a head up instrument panel to read the information without taking your eyes off the road, an enhancing high centre console and a large 9.7” touch screen for intuitive driving.

This latter groups together all the controls for simple and intuitive ergonomy. It has made it possible to design a pure dashboard, without the usual control buttons, and positions the new PEUGEOT 308 at a technological tour-de-force and of a top-of-the-range specification level.

The touch screen permits control of the following equipment or functions:

  • Air conditioning (automatic dual-zone)
  • Driving aids (Park Assist and reversing camera)
  • Multimedia (Radio, 6.9 GB Jukebox with navigation option, interactive handbook, USB/Ipod connection, audio streaming, photo viewer, etc.)
  • Navigation (Allure only)
  • Telephone (Bluetooth hands-free, access to the telephone’s contacts and to their profile, management of call waiting, etc.)
  • Configuration (Management of the vehicle settings)

The seven buttons providing direct access to the functions make operation of the touch screen clear. The information is concentrated on two pages, easily accessible.

Technological driving aids for more tranquil driving

For even more comfortable and safe driving, the new PEUGEOT 308 is equipped with driving aids.

Blind Spot Monitoring is available on Allure trim. An LED integrated in the exterior mirrors warns the driver of the presence of a car or motorbike in the blind spot.

For driving comfort and safety, the new PEUGEOT 308 is fitted (as standard on Allure), with a new generation electric handbrake, operated by the motorized brake calipers, together with a reversing camera which uses the large colour screen and keyless entry and starting. Finally, the Park Assist system is also available in with both parallel and perpendicular parking function.

Ambitious quality

The new PEUGEOT 308 is the embodiment of the range enhancement process started several years ago by the Marque. Key points illustrate this desire to achieve quality down to the smallest details.

Click HERE to download Peugeot 308 Brochure and find out more!

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