Peugeot dubs its new 308 as its ‘most advanced hatchback to date’ and guess what, it’s now available in South Africa. The new Peugeot 308 is built on the marque’s new generation Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2) and is more advanced, lighter, more compact and more efficient than before. So advanced in fact, that the 308 was named 2014 European Car of the Year and has received numerous awards worldwide. Sound good? Let’s take a look at what the new 308 has to offer.

Step Inside the 308

Peugeot says the new 308 offers higher levels of comfort and quality all round. The dashboard is deeply recessed and features an elevated instrument binnacle with large instrument dials, incorporating a large full-colour touchscreen display. A small-diameter, multifunction steering wheel provides access to basic functions and features. The interior features a mix of textured surfaces, metallic accents and high-gloss inserts.

Boot space is said to be generous and the 60:40 split rear seats fold flat to increase load capacity even further. The Peugeot 308 is big on safety too and comes with a 5-star Euro-NCAP safety rating and is packed with active and passive safety features.

Model Range

Two variants are available, both featuring Peugeot’s PureTech engine technology, which in this case is a 3-cylinder powerplant with high pressure direct-injection, four valves per cylinder and high pressure turbocharging. The base offering is the 308 Active fitted with a 1.2-litre PureTech e-THP 110 engine offering 81 kW and 205 Nm and mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

The 308 GT Line ups the power up with a 1.2-litre PureTech e-THP 130 engine which offers 96 kW with peak torque at 240 Nm. This model makes use of a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The Peugeot 308 models are further differentiated by exterior styling details, interior trim and equipment. The 308 GT Line for instance gains full LED headlights, a different grille, larger alloys wheels, twin tailpipes and more brightwork. A 9.7-inch touchscreen is standard on both models.

Peugeot 308 Price in South Africa

Peugeot 308 1.2 PureTech Active R275 900

Peugeot 308 1.2 PureTech GT Line R329 900

Prices include a 3-year/100 000 km manufacturer warranty, a 5-year 60 000 km Premium Plan service plan and a 3-year/100 000 km roadside assistance package.