Driving review: Peugeot 308 GT Line
The Peugeot 308, also the 2014 European Car of the Year, is now available in South Africa and we got to test it through the gorgeous, windy roads of the Midlands.
It has been some time since Peugeot produced a class-leading car. The new 308 with its all-new platform, new engine and lighter weight, is that car with which they hope to tackle the hatchback segment.
The new Peugeot 308 was designed around Peugeot’s new-generation platform. The new 308 combines compact, wieldy dimensions and a substantially reduced kerb mass with an advanced, high-efficiency drivetrain to deliver exceptional dynamics and frugal fuel consumption. Peugeot knows that the Volkswagen Golf is the benchmark in this segment so they had their work cut out for them! And they nailed it!
Look at it from the back and you might see hints of the Audi A3 Sportback and as one or two other journalist’s commented, the Mercedes-Benz A Class. Overall, it is a good looking car and one can certainly notice the German influences. The only downfall for me are the silver ‘exhaust’ pipes at the rear which are purely cosmetic. They may look good but it reminds me of the Golf’s roaming around with a GTI logo stuck on it when it is in fact a 1,6 Citi Golf. But, each to their own!
The interior execution reflects the advanced nature of the 308, as well as close attention to design detail, high comfort levels and tactile quality. The cockpit design combines deeply recessed, highly visible instrument dials with a large, full-colour touchscreen display, while a multifunction steering wheel further benefits intuitive access to key functions and features. The interior is simple, very simple, but I like it. It is clean and modern. It could have done with a bit more storage space where they have opted for the minimalist look, such as just above where the volume button sits.
Mirroring a design trend first introduced by the 208 and 2008, the 308’s ergonomic layout combines a small-diameter steering wheel with an elevated instrument binnacle. I loved the smaller steering wheel whereas my driving partner felt it was a tad small. But I have small hands (and perhaps dainty arms) and I would be happy if other manufacturers adopted this size wheel. It is very, very sensitive but confidence inspiring when hitting the bends of Nottingham Road.
Despite the fact that the new 308 is more compact than the previous model, efficient packaging and intelligent design conspire to create a roomy cabin with spacious accommodation for front and rear occupants. Smart finishes, including textured surfaces, metallic accents and high-gloss inserts, establish an upmarket ambience, adding to the new Peugeot 308’s feel-good character.
Practicality remains a further 308 attraction, and family buyers will be happy to know that it is boasts one of the larger boots within the segment. A 60/40-split rear bench seat can be partly or completely folded flat to further boost cargo space. A five-star Euro-NCAP rating underscores the new Peugeot hatchback’s exceptional safety standards, with a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features.
The new Peugeot 308 is initially offered in two variants, both employing Peugeot latest, high-efficiency PureTech engine technology. The cutting-edge, three-cylinder powerplant incorporates high-pressure direct injection, four valves per cylinder, and high-pressure turbocharging. The result is a small-capacity engine with compact dimensions and low mass that emulates the power and torque of a much larger, more conventional and less efficient power plant, while achieving clear benefits as far as reduced exhaust emissions and lower fuel consumption are concerned.
Starting off the range is the Peugeot 308 Active, which is fitted with the 1.2 PureTech e-THP 110 engine. It produces a maximum power output of 81 kW combined with 205 N.m of torque. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard.
By comparison, the 1.2 PureTech e-THP 130 engine fitted to the 308 GT Line elevates those output levels even further. The maximum power output is 96kW with 240N.m of torque. The GT Line model gets a six-speed manual gearbox with optimised ratios. If you weren’t aware of the engine size you would think you were driving a far more powerful engine. It is punchy and with a smaller engine comes the benefits of much a lower fuel consumption figure. The GT Line boasts a figure of just 4,8L/100km. There is enough power at low down revs and plenty of mid-range torque. The ride is noticeably smooth!
The differences between the Active and GT Line models extend to exterior styling details and interior trim and equipment levels. For instance, the GT Line gains full LED headlights, a different grille, and twin, narrow-aperture tailpipes, as well as larger alloy wheels and more brightwork.
While both models offer a comprehensive array of standard equipment, the GT Line gains an extended features list, together with enhanced trim levels. However, the touchscreen display is standard on both variants.
The new Peugeot 308 goes on sale end of March, and is supported by a comprehensive service and warranty offering that includes a three-year/100 000 km manufacturer warranty, a five-year 60 000 km premium plan service plan, and a three-year/100 000 km roadside assistance package.
PRICING
Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech Active R275 900
Peugeot 308 1.2 PureTech GT Line R329 900