Peugeot’s 308 hatchback has been given an extreme makeover, and will spawn a PSE performance flagship
Peugeot has officially revealed the next-generation 308 hatchback, one of its core passenger car models and key rival to the Volkswagen Golf. Its styling, interior and powertrains have all been given a big shakeup, with a new focus on plug-in hybrid models that will eventually be topped by a new high performance PSE model, replacing the previous GTi.
Despite sharing a similar two-box design to the current model, the new 308 is in fact 110mm longer with 55mm of that situated in the wheelbase. This, plus a 22mm drop in height has dramatically changed the new 308’s proportions, which is now underpinned by PSA’s EMP2 platform.
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This change of platform is obvious in its available powertrains, with the range highlighted by two new hybrid powertrain options available in 178bhp and 223bhp forms. Both utilise a turbocharged petrol engine, augmented by a single electric motor and 12.4kWh battery pack, and are fitted exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. No electric range or L/100km figures have been released so far.
Joining these two hybrid powertrains are more traditional three-cylinder petrol and four-cylinder diesel engines, the former the same turbocharged 1.2-litre Puretech unit familiar to the current model. In time, Peugeot will top the range with a high performance PSE version featuring a more potent hybrid powertrain, possibly with an electrified rear axle in the same style as the larger 508 PSE.
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Inside, the 308 features elements typical of Peugeot’s unusual interior architecture including a small steering wheel and lifted i-Cockpit instrument cluster. As in the smaller 208, the i-Cockpit has a three dimensional display, and is integrated into a dashboard design that’s full of complex angles, materials and surfaces. The central infotainment screen controls most of the interior functions, but there is a row of physical buttons below for certain functions.
Yet it’s the exterior design which is sure to turn the most heads, with a striking design that moves Peugeot’s design language on yet another step. The nose is dominated by textured grates that encompass both the grille and its surrounding areas, punctured by super-slim LED headlights edged by Peugeot’s trademark fang-like daytime running lights.
![](https://www.crankandpiston.com/media/2021/03/2021-Peugeot-308-10-941x530.jpg)
The body side is complex and sculptural too, while around the rear, even slimmer rear lights sit above a deep undercut that visually separates the rear wheel arches from the main body. It’s a dramatic combination of lines and surfaces that quite dramatically differentiates this new 308 from its more restrained predecessor, and one that will also debut Peugeot’s new branding.
A 308 PSE hot hatch is set to debut some time after the 308’s market launch, but with Peugeot’s enthusiasm towards its new performance sub-brand, we shouldn’t have to wait too long before more information about it is revealed.
This article originally appeared at evo.co.uk
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