Enhanced technology and styling for new Peugeot 308
Peugeot has revealed the latest generation of the 308 – its boldest and most high-tech model yet. With a raft of changes, including sharpened styling and the very latest in highly efficient powertrains and touchscreen connectivity, the car is now an even more compelling option.
The new-generation 308, available in hatch, SW and GTi features sleek exterior cues with an assertive new vertical grille and LED daytime running lights (DRLs) for all models. Inside, the integration of Peugeot’s i-Cockpit® interior layout means owners can enjoy a capacitive touchscreen, offering connected 3D satnav and new graphics.
Highly applauded at launch for its safety, the new Peugeot 308 builds on its predecessor’s five-star Euro NCAP rating with improved safety technology. All models can now be specified with the advanced driver assistance systems found on the all-New Peugeot 3008 SUV.
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Meanwhile, under the skin, power and efficiency go hand-in-hand thanks to a line-up of the very latest powertrains, including a new 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Stop&Start engine and a new eight-speed automatic transmission coupled with the BlueHDi 180 Stop&Start engine.
Styling
Regardless of body style or trim level the new Peugeot 308 stands out with perfectly balanced proportions. The sleek new bonnet meets the vertical grille, with central Lion badge and the Peugeot name sculpted into the upper trim, while new elliptical headlights come with integrated DRL LEDs to produce a distinctive front light signature.
Other design-led changes include a new front bumper with three generous lower grille openings, to ensure effective engine cooling, while the rear lamps show a proud three-claw light signature night and day. And with its short front and rear overhangs the new Peugeot 308 keeps its reputation for excellent manoeuvrability. Allure, GT Line and GT all feature a large glass roof as standard.
Connectivity and driver assistance systems
The new Peugeot 308 boasts seamless in-car connectivity thanks to the i-Cockpit®, which includes Mirror Screen, a triple-play system which duplicates the user’s smartphone on the vehicle’s touchscreen, compatible with MirrorLink®, Android Auto® and Apple CarplayTM protocols. The rapid-response new 3D satnav system with voice control is connected to the TomTom® Traffic realtime traffic monitoring service, enabling motorists to optimise their journeys by factoring in actual traffic conditions.
Extended driver assistance runs to eight latest-generation systems, including Active Safety Brake and Active Lane Departure Warning and adaptive cruise control, including a stop function (with automatic transmission), or a 19mph function (with manual transmission).
For the utmost in parking convenience, the new Peugeot 308 uses Visiopark 1 with 180° rear camera and the Park Assist function, which measures the parking space available and automatically steers the car in and out.
Efficient new powertrains
The new Peugeot 308 is powered by a choice of highly efficient petrol and diesel engines offering an ideal compromise between high performance and low fuel consumption.
The three-cylinder petrol engine has undergone a major upgrade, with at-source and at-exhaust emission control for low real-life fuel consumption and even more efficient pollution reduction. High-precision injection control on the PureTech 130 Stop&Start engine enhances combustion efficiency: exhaust gases go through a catalytic converter then a passive-regeneration gasoline particle filter. A new six-speed manual gearbox reaps maximum benefit.
The new Peugeot 308 is the first PSA Group model to get the new BlueHDi 130 S&S Diesel engine, a four-cylinder unit that also implements at-source and at-exhaust emission control. Combustion efficiency is improved by a patented combustion chamber design, the efficacy of which was amply proven under competition conditions in the 24-hour Le Mans event. Further efficiency gains are afforded by the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) pollution control system, fitted as close as possible to the engine for the fastest possible post-treatment action.
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The BlueHDi 180 Stop&Start Diesel engine, exclusive to the New Peugeot 308 GT, is available with a new-generation EAT8 automatic transmission, which has been developed with Japanese specialists Aisin. A new eight-speed unit featuring slick, smooth, linear response, plus Stop&Start capability from 12mph, this powerful and highly efficient powertrain offers a rapid and direct driving experience.
The new Peugeot 308 will be available in the UK from September, no word on whether it will be coming to South Africa.
Source: NewsPress