Powered by Peugeot’s turbo-charged 200 bhp THP petrol engine mated to a six-speed gearbox, which it shares with the new RCZ, the new Peugeot 308 GT THP 200 combines good levels of performance with low CO2 emissions of 159 g/km.

Externally, the Peugeot 308 GT THP 200 discreetly displays its sportier nature with a number of styling features to set it apart from the rest of the 308 range:

• A bright black carbon-style insert under the front bumper lower skirt
• A “Sport” lower front panel derived from the 308 CC
• A lower rear bumper panel with Perla Nera black diffuser
• A rear spoiler, offering additional efficiency at high speeds
• Twin chrome rear exhaust pipes
• “GT” badges on the side and rear of the body

Inside, the Peugeot 308 GT THP 200 benefits from a number of distinctive features: Sports seats, aluminium pedals, footrest and gear lever knob, leather sports steering wheel with aluminium detailing and a black lacquer fascia front panel.

It also benefits from all of the qualities that have made the five-door 308 hatchback a success, in particular:

• High levels of comfort and convenience, thanks to its semi-tall architecture, ensuring exceptional interior brightness, visibility (a glazed surface area of up to 4.86 m2) and interior space, not forgetting its stylish and elegant fascia panel, its build quality and its distinctive acoustics;
• 5 Star EuroNCAP 2009 test rating thanks to its structure and high-performance means of restraint.

In these modern times where comfort and convenience are becoming more important than ultimate performance, the Peugeot 308 GT THP 200 ticks all the boxes. Standard specification includes: ABS, EBFD, EBA, six smart airbags, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front and rear windows, radio / CD player with MP3 playback, fully body coloured exterior, dual zone climate control, front fog lights, ESP, leather sports steering wheel, cruise control with speed limiter, special sports GT 200 front grille, 18” alloy wheels, automatic headlamps and wipers, sports rear bumper, comfort pack (lumbar support and rear arm rest), electric folding door mirrors, ambiance pack (lighting) Bluetooth hands-free telephone kit, rear parking aid, alarm, carpet mats, half leather upholstery, sports seats, aluminium and carbon interior detailing, twin chrome exhaust pipes, rear spoiler, black carbon bumper inserts.

The Peugeot 308 GT THP 200 is available in six different exterior body colours: Bianca White, Nera Black, Aluminium, Shark Grey, Ipanema Blue and Babylon Red, all with a Payerne black half leather interior trim.

Modern, sporty and fuel efficient the, Peugeot 308 GT THP 200 is a sporty hatchback for a new era: enjoyable for day-to-day driving, equally at home transporting the family, but with the performance to put a smile on the driver’s face when the opportunity arises.

Finally, for cars delivered in July, customers will also get a free Nokia 5230 smartphone and mounting kit, with inbuilt satellite navigation and free future updates enabling them to find destinations quickly and easily.

Peugeot pioneered the concept of “folding roof cars” way back in the 1930s with its elegant 401, 601 and 402 “Eclipse” models, and today continues this with the 207 CC and now the new member to the family, the 308 CC.

• On sale in the UK in April 2009
• Three trim levels – S, Sport and GT
• Powered by Euro V HDi diesel and petrol turbocharged engines
• First Coupe Cabriolet in the world to have all the occupant lateral protection incorporated into the front seat
• ESP standard on all models
• Range to be priced from circa £17,000

Compared to the Peugeot 307 CC which it replaces, the 308 CC is longer, wider and has a larger front and rear track to improve its overall dynamic performance. The extra length and width also benefits the occupants by increasing the passenger space compared to the 307 CC.

While the style of the passenger compartment shares many similarities with the 308 hatchback, the CC has a number of unique styling features, such as the generously dimensioned wraparound front seats with their integral head restraints. They can also be equipped with an inbuilt “Airwave” system, which diffuses warm air around the front occupants’ necks and is adjustable for temperature, flow and direction.

Particular attention has also been paid to the rear seats which benefit from side armrests and deeply sculpted seat cushions matching the theme of those at the front. If leather trim is specified a rear folding central armrest is also included. On all models the integral rear head restraints also house the active extendable roll-over protection bars.

Safety
In the event of a rollover situation, the roll-over protection bars are automatically triggered the moment a roll-over situation is detected, taking into account the vehicle speed and the angle of the vehicle. As soon as the instruction to deploy is received, the roll-over protection bars are extended in less than 20 milliseconds. Combining with the strengthened windscreen pillars, they provide a protective zone for all the occupants.

The structure of the 308 CC is also specially strengthened to provide the best possible protection for all its occupants, even in the cabriolet configuration, and provide a rigid structure to maximise the performance of the suspension.

The 308 CC is equipped with passenger and driver’s front air bags, chest/pelvis side air bags and, marking a world first, a head air bag for the front passengers, housed directly in the seat and deployed laterally from the head restraint.

The Peugeot 308 CC is the first Coupe Cabriolet in the world to have all the lateral protection incorporated into the front seat, including head, chest and pelvis, thereby ensuring efficient deployment and occupant protection regardless of the seat position and for all types of side impact.

In keeping with its status as a four seater Coupe Cabriolet, both rear seats have seat belts with force limiters and a fasten seat belt warning system, as well as Isofix child safety seat mountings.

To facilitate access to the two rear seats, both the height adjustable front seats can be equipped with an electrical tilt and slide system.

Two-part Retractable Roof
The 308 CC shares the same “roof concept” as the 307 CC. It consists of a two-part retractable roof with a small folding roof panel and a large rear athermic dark-tinted rear windscreen. The roof benefits from all of Peugeot’s expertise in Coupe Cabriolets and builds on a tried and tested concept.

The roof opens and closes in only 20 seconds even when driving at speeds of up to 7 mph. The system is controlled by a new electronic control unit which automatically lowers all four windows by around 50 mm before any roof operations commence.

The 308 CC has a very usable boot with a number of dedicated storage spaces (including one under the boot floor carpet to store the optional windstop). A lot of attention has also been paid to the boot area to optimise the space and gain valuable additional millimetres.

A Useable Boot
In the coupe configuration, the boot volume is 465 litres and 266 litres with the roof folded. Inside, the boot is meticulously finished with a high quality carpet, chrome tie-down rings, straps for retaining a warning triangle and a luggage net for enhanced practicality.

Unlocking and releasing of the boot are also possible by remote control and can be actioned by means of a dedicated button on the ignition key.

Peugeot Connect Audio and Navigation Systems
To ensure every journey is as enjoyable as possible a wide range of standard or optional Peugeot Connect audio and navigation systems is available:

Peugeot Connect Sound consists of an MP3 compatible Radio / CD player. It is linked to six speakers and includes a connection for a portable electronic device in the glove box, via two RCA connectors.

Peugeot Connect Bluetooth® is an MP3 compatible Radio / CD player with an inbuilt Bluetooth® hands-free kit allowing the use of a mobile telephone in complete safety. It also includes a USB connector and RCA connectors in the glove box.

Peugeot Connect Nav is a new, highly competitive and attractively designed satellite navigation system which combines audio functions with a three-tuner MP3 compatible Radio / CD player, a Bluetooth® hands-free mobile telephone, satellite navigation with European cartography, traffic information and RCA connectors in the glove box. It is linked to a large seven inch 16/9 colour screen which retracts into the fascia panel providing either two dimensional or “bird’s eye view” of the map information.

Peugeot Connect 3D-Nav is the top-of-the-range system using a 30 GB hard disc for cartography and music storage, with 10 GB devoted to the Juke Box function. It includes an integral GSM mobile telephone with an integral SIM card holder and Bluetooth® functions.

Information is shown on a high-resolution 7 inch 16/9 colour display which retracts into the fascia panel. This provides a 3D representation of the map and allows videos to be watched thanks to the DVD player and RCA and USB connectors.

A JBL hi-fi pack offering “tailor-made” sound. This comprises a digital eight channel amplifier with an output of 240 W which controls a range of hi-fi speakers (two medium-tweeters, two woofers, two coaxial elliptical speakers) and automatically adjusts the audio volume in cabriolet mode according to vehicle speed.

Engines
At launch two dynamic and fuel efficient engines will be available, both equipped with a six speed manual gearbox… unless an automatic gearbox option is preferred…

Petrol Engines

• 1.6 litre THP 150 bhp engine – torque of 180 lb ft at 1400 rpm – six speed manual gearbox
• 1.6 litre THP 140 bhp engine – torque of 180 lb ft at 1400 rpm – four speed automatic gearbox with “Porsche Tiptronic System” control

Diesel Engines

• 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 5 – 140 bhp – torque of 240 lb ft (260 lb ft with overboost) at 2000 rpm – six speed manual gearbox
• 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 4 -136 bhp – torque of 240 lb ft (260 lb ft with overboost) at 2000 rpm – six speed automatic gearbox with “Porsche Tiptronic System” control

Further engine options will, however, be introduced after launch.

Suspension
The dynamic road holding of the 308 CC is designed to combine driving pleasure with active safety and a high level of comfort. It benefits from Peugeot’s experience in terms of coupe-cabriolets and also their expertise in designing vehicles with high torsional rigidity, a key element for good road holding.

As with the other 308 models, the suspension of the 308 CC comprises:

• an inverted Pseudo MacPherson type front suspension with a drop link anti-roll bar which ensures both accurate steering and excellent damping control
• a rear suspension with a rear torsion beam and integral welded anti-roll bar ensuring good body control, vibration suppression and strength

While retaining the geometry of the 308 hatchback suspension, changes have been made which include a ride height lower by 12 mm at the front and 8 mm at the rear, a specification borrowed from the 307 CC which can also be found on the 308 THP 175 bhp hatchback.

The 308 CC is equipped, according to the engine and version, with wheel and tyre combinations specially adapted to this particular body shape. They combine dynamism, safety and driving pleasure with a high level of comfort. To achieve this, wider tyres than those of the hatchback are fitted, for example, with the 1.6 THP 150 bhp engine.

• Izalco 7Jx16 alloy wheels – 215/55R16 tyres
• Stromboli 7.5Jx17 alloy wheels – 225/45R17 tyres
• Lincancabur 8Jx18 alloy wheels – 225/40R18 tyres

Braking
On the 308 CC, particular attention has been paid to the overall braking performance, durability and ease of use, all in keeping with the vehicle’s “leisure / sport” character. Ventilated front discs with dimensions of 302 x 26 mm and 249 x 9 mm rear discs are fitted, coupled with an emergency brake assist system and automatic switching on of the hazard warning lights, in the event of sharp deceleration.

A Bosch 8.1 ESP system including ABS, electronic brake force distribution, traction control and stability control comes as standard on 308 CCs equipped with the 1.6 litre THP and 2.0 litre HDi diesel engines.

Model Range
There will be three trim levels available, S, Sport and GT and nine exterior body colours, each offering a different personality.

• Pearl White
• Perla Nera Black
• Mocha
• Aluminium
• Shark Grey
• Hurricane Grey
• Abyss Blue
• Ipanema Blue
• Babylon Red

Both cloth and leather interior trims will be available including an offer rarely available in this market segment, “integral leather”. In addition to leather seats, it includes a saddle-stitched leather fascia panel and door trim pad surrounds combined with a leather trimmed gear lever console in the same colour as the fascia panel.

The 308 CC, builds on the many strengths of the 307 CC but develops them even further in order to meet the high standards expected of this type of vehicle: attractive styling, comprehensive specification and safety equipment and high levels of quality, both perceived quality and “quality feel”.

The 308 CC will be on sale in the UK in April 2009 at a starting price of circa £17,000.

It’s now over seven years since Peugeot introduced its best known coupe cabriolet, the 206 CC, which then evolved in 2003 into the 307 CC and then, in 2007, into the UK’s current best selling open top car, the 207 CC. This successful concept will shortly evolve again with the introduction of the Peugeot 308 CC.

The 308 CC, with its four full-size seats, capitalises on all the inbuilt strengths of the 308 range whilst still embodying the "307 CC spirit" and Peugeot’s coupe cabriolet expertise. Above all, it promises enthusiasts of "lifestyle" motoring a unique and genuinely attractive offer.

The 308 CC stands out due to its elegant and stylish design, both in its coupe and cabriolet configurations. A low sporty profile confirms the dynamic potential of the 308 CC and the prominent shape and spectacular LED rear lights create a unique signature for the car by day and by night.

The passenger compartment has an undeniable personality. Particularly striking in the "cabriolet" version, it has a different feel from the hatchback and creates the impression of a grand touring car.

The deeply sculpted and supportive front seats, with their integral head restraints, have an inbuilt air vent which diffuses warm air around the occupant’s neck. The rear seats also mirror this distinctive design and offer rear accommodation that is surprisingly generous for a cabriolet.

The 308 CC will be available with both simple and an "integral leather" interior trim. The entire passenger compartment is now also trimmed in leather, which is unusual in this segment.

Key Features

• Fully automatic retractable roof that can be magically transformed in 20 seconds
• Four full size seats, with increased rear leg room
• New 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 5 140 bhp diesel engine
• Six-speed manual gearbox
• Wider front and rear track, larger diameter disc brakes and ESP
• Excellent structural rigidity
• Low interior noise levels
• Full complement of airbags including chest/pelvis side airbags built into the front seats and a side head airbag which is a world first, guaranteeing effective protection of all parts of the body regardless of seat position
• Active rear roll-over protection bars

The Peugeot 308 CC will see for the first time on a Peugeot coupe cabriolet the introduction of a warm air heating system built into the front seats. This "Airwave" system acts like a scarf by diffusing warm air adjustable for temperature, flow and direction around the occupant’s shoulders / neck.

Other new features will also be introduced including:

• Automatic remote-control locking of interior storage compartments (glove box and storage under the central armrest)
• A special "rear seat access" function which electrically slides forwards the front seats
• Deadlocking of doors and selective unlocking
• LED courtesy lighting in the door mirrors

The 308 CC is also a car that can be used on a daily basis due to its usable boot which includes a number of dedicated storage spaces (including one under the boot carpet designed to hold the optional wind stop). It has a capacity of 465 litres or 266 litres with the roof folded.

Finally, to make any journey as pleasant as possible, the 308 CC will benefit from a comprehensive range of Peugeot’s latest in-car-communication systems.

• A MP3 CD audio system
• A MP3 CD audio system, USB Box (iPod / MP3… connectivity) and hands-free phone kit
• A user-friendly satellite navigation system offering a MP3 CD audio system, Bluetooth functionality and satellite navigation with a retractable 7″ 16/9 colour display
• A top-of-the-range satellite navigation system with a 30 GB hard disc with Juke Box function, MP3 CD audio system, integral mobile phone, Bluetooth functionality, USB connector and a retractable, high-resolution 7″ 16/9 colour screen with a 3D display

Finally, for all music aficionados a JBL Hi-fi option will also be available with 10 speakers offering a made-to-measure sound experience.

The new Peugeot 308 CC will be the star of this year’s Paris Motor Show in September.

Based on the 308 S model and available in both five-door hatchback and SW versions, the SR range sees the standard fitment of SmartNav – satellite navigation, Bluetooth hands free phone kit and 16" alloy wheels. It will be available with two HDi diesel engines, HDi 90 and HDi 110 and in September a Bioflex engine will be introduced in to the hatchback version. The Bioflex engine will be able to operate on either E85 ethanol or unleaded petrol.

The five-door hatchback model will also be available with an electronically controlled six-speed manual gearbox, which reduces the CO2 emissions to 120 g/km, the same as the HDi 90 version.

The competitive pricing of the entry models sees the customer paying just £650 more than an equivalent S model for £1,175 of additional standard equipment.

The 308 SR will be available in six exterior body colours: Hurricane Grey, Nera Black, Aluminium, Thorium Grey, Aegean Blue and Babylon Red.

Prices – Five-door models

SR HDi 90: £15,845

SR HDi 110 FAP 6-Speed: £16,645

SR HDi 110 FAP EGC: £17,045

SW Models 

SR HDi 90: £16,345

SR HDi 110 FAP: £17,245

Both the 308 SR and SW will be available via Peugeot Contract Hire at a rental rate starting at £215 per month.

It will be available in four trim levels S, SR, Sport and SE and will replace the 307 SW and 307 Estate range of vehicles, when it is launched in June 2008. The S and SR versions will differ from the Sport and SE versions by the fitment of a steel roof panel and a folding split rear bench seat, instead of individual removable seats and a Cielo panoramic glass roof as found on the Sport and SE versions.

At launch the 308 SW will be available with eight engine options, five petrol engines and three HDi diesel engines.

Petrol engines

• 1.4 litre VTi 95 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox
• 1.6 litre VTi 120 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox & 4-speed automatic
• 1.6 litre THP 140 bhp 4-speed automatic gearbox
• 1.6 litre THP 150 bhp 6-speed manual gearbox
• 1.6 litre THP 175 bhp 6-speed manual gearbox

HDi Diesel engines

• 1.6 litre HDi 90 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox
• 1.6 litre HDi 110 bhp 6-speed manual gearbox
• 2.0 litre HDi 136 bhp 6-speed manual gearbox & 6-speed automatic

All engines meet the current Euro 4 emission standards and both the HDi 110 and HDi 136 diesel engines are fitted with a diesel particulate filter system (FAP).

Sharing the same wheelbase as the 307 SW, but with an increased length of 72 mm and width of 117 mm with the mirrors folded, the 308 SW provides more interior and luggage space than the outgoing model. To improve the 308 SW’s dynamic performance the width of both the front and rear tracks have been increased as well as the rigidity of the body.

Manufacturer’s Recommended Retail Prices

S 1.4 VTi 95:£14,395

S 1.6 VTi 120:£14,995

S 1.6 VTi 120 Auto:£15,995

S HDi 90:£15,695

S HDi 110:£16,595

SR HDi 90:£16,345

SR HDi 110:£17,245

Sport 1.6 VTi 120:£16,395

Sport 1.6 VTi 120 Auto:£17,395

Sport THP 150:£17,495

Sport THP 140 Auto:£18,495

Sport THP 175:£18,645

Sport HDi 110:£17,995

Sport HDi 136:£18,645

Sport HDi 136 Auto:£19,645

SE HDi 110:£19,195

SE HDi 136:£19,845

SE HDi 136 Auto:£20,845

Standard equipment on all models includes: power steering, driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, curtain airbags, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows, steering column adjustable for reach and rake, radio / single CD player, passenger / driver seat height adjustment, ABS with EBFD and EBA, trip computer, front fog-lights, body coloured door mirrors and door handles, air-conditioning…

The S and SR models both have a steel roof panel instead of a Cielo panoramic glass roof, a split rear folding bench seat, a 20 litre under floor storage area in the rear load area and a “classic” front grille design.

The SR version adds: 16″ alloy wheels, Bluetooth hands free kit, storage pack (rear seat centre armrest with storage) and SMARTNav, to the standard specification of the S version.

The Sport version adds to the specification of the S version: three second row individual and removable seats, a Cielo panoramic glass roof, 17″ alloy wheels, ‘Sports’ front grille, radio / CD with diversity + MP3 compatibility, opening rear tailgate glass, steering column airbag, front centre armrest, leather steering wheel, electric rear windows, ESP and cruise control.

The SE version then adds, compared to the Sport version: 16″ alloy wheels, dual zone air-conditioning, two third row individual and removable seats, Visibility Pack (automatic headlamps and wipers), electro-chrome rear view mirror, electric folding door mirrors, Comfort Pack (front seat lumbar support and armrest), Ambiance Pack (fragrance diffuser, ambient lighting), dark tinted rear windows and tyre pressure sensors.

As with the 308 hatchback, the 308 SW also benefits from the fitment of Michelin Energy Saver Tyres. These tyres reduce the rolling resistance of the vehicle by 20% and will be fitted to the 1.6 litre HDi 90 and HDi 110 versions with both 15″ and 16″ wheels.

This technology also improves the vehicle’s overall environmental efficiency. It allows a reduction of 5 g/km of CO2* which corresponds to a reduction of around one tonne of CO2 during the life of the vehicle.

Launched in April 2002, the Peugeot 307 SW offered a stylish and innovative alternative for customers who, for practical reasons, found that a hatchback vehicle lacked the flexibility and size they required and were uninspired by the design of conventional estate cars and medium size MPVs. Since its launch in the UK, the 307 SW has sold over 40,000 vehicles.

Like the 308 hatchback, the 308 SW builds on the strengths of its predecessor but develops them even further. For example, the panoramic glass roof is now 27% larger (total area of 1.68 m2) and extends beyond the heads of the second row passengers, the modularity is easier to operate and improved and it now has a very practical opening rear tailgate glass.

A lot of attention has also been paid to the modularity of the 308 SW so that it can be adapted simply and efficiently, according to the requirements of its occupants. The rear seats in the second row are all individual, easy to remove, identical in size and offer a multitude of combinations.

To enable seven occupants to be carried, two occasional rear seats can be fitted in the third row.

Access to the rear load area is either via the rear tailgate or the opening rear tailgate glass. With the second row seats in place it can accommodate up to 674 litres (573 dm3 VDA) under the rear load cover. With the seats removed it provides a total volume of 2,149 litres up to the level of the roof (1,736 dm3 VDA).

The 308 SW is based on platform 2 of the PSA Peugeot Citroën group and compared to the hatchback, the wheelbase of the 308 SW has been increased by 100 mm and the rear overhang by 124 mm.

With regards to secondary safety, the structure (thanks in particular to the presence of three impact absorption beams) has been designed to provide optimal protection, combined with the ability to absorb the maximum amount of impact energy in a controlled manner. In addition, the SW can be equipped with up to seven airbags, including a steering column airbag.

The 308 SW is available with a wide choice of modern, high performance, economical and environmentally-friendly powertrains.

The use of the latest technology in both the petrol and diesel engines, combined with the car’s efficient aerodynamics, weight saving measures and the use of Michelin Energy Saver tyres, reduces the fuel consumption, compared to the 307 SW, by up to 10% .

With regards to road holding, the suspension set-up and wheel size options have been borrowed from the 308 hatchback but revised to meet the special requirements of the SW version.

The 308 SW range will go on sale in the UK in June and more information concerning specification and prices will be announced nearer the launch date.

This new top of the range petrol model will be powered by the 1.6 litre turbo-charged THP 175 bhp petrol engine, previously found in the 207 GTi THP 175. It is also fitted with a new 6-speed manual gearbox.

To match the dynamic nature of the engine, the exterior of the vehicle benefits from a number of cosmetic changes. The lower front bumper panel has a unique appearance which is combined with a rear spoiler and a reduced overall ride height.

Inside, the interior gains an aluminium gear knob and foot pedals and a new steering wheel design.

Designed in co-operation with the BMW Group, the 1.6 litre turbo-charged petrol engine develops a maximum power of 175 bhp at 6000 rpm but is characterised mainly by its generous torque output. With a maximum torque output of 180 lb ft (or 195 lb ft with overboost) at only 1600 rpm, the engine provides excellent in-gear acceleration and levels of driveability normally associated with a larger capacity engine.

This new engine provides the 308 with higher performance levels while, at the same time, providing a combined fuel consumption of 37.1 mpg and CO2 emissions of 180 g/km, 10% less than those of the 307 2.0 litre Feline 180.

The 308 GT THP 175 will go on sale in the UK in April and more information concerning specification and prices will be announced nearer the launch date.

Performance Data Comparison

It will initially replace the Peugeot 307 hatchback range with the introduction of the five-door model in September and the three-door model in December 2007.

At launch the 308 will be available with six engine options, three petrol engines and three HDi diesel engines.

Petrol engines

• 1.4 litre VTi 95 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox
• 1.6 litre VTi 120 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox
• 1.6 litre THP 150 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox

HDi Diesel engines

• 1.6 litre HDi 90 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox
• 1.6 litre HDi 110 bhp 5-speed manual gearbox
• 2.0 litre HDi 136 bhp 6-speed manual gearbox

All engines meet the current Euro 4 emission standards and both the HDi 110 and HDi 136 diesel engines are fitted with a diesel particulate filter system (DPFS).

Sharing the same wheelbase as the 307 five door hatchback, but with an increased length of 74 mm and width of 53 mm, the 308 provides more interior and luggage space than the outgoing model. To improve the 308′s dynamic performance the width of both the front and rear tracks have been increased as well as the rigidity of the body. Larger wheels up to 18″ are also available.

The stylish design of the 308 not only looks good but also contributes to helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions. For example the 1.6 HDi 90 emits only 120g/km of CO2 and has a combined fuel consumption of 62.7 mpg.

During the development of the 308, Peugeot included its tyre supplier Michelin in its programme of innovations. This led to the creation of a high tech tyre for the 308 belonging to the all new Michelin Energy Saver range. This tyre reduces rolling resistance by 20% and will be fitted to the 1.6 litre HDi 90 and HDi 110 versions fitted with both 15″ and 16″ wheels.

The technology used for the first time in the world in the Michelin Energy Saver tyres that are fitted on the Peugeot 308, improves the vehicle’s overall environmental efficiency. It allows a reduction of 4g/km of CO2 (ISO test carried out by the TÜV SÜD Automotive in 2007 on the 195/65R15 tyre) which corresponds to a reduction of around one tonne of CO2 during the life of the vehicle.

Manufacturer’s Recommended Retail Prices

3 Door

Urban 1.4 VTi 95: £11,995
Urban HDi 90: £13,295
S 1.4 VTi 95: £12,895
S 1.6 VTi 120: £13,495
S HDi 90: £14,195
S HDi 110: £14,995
Sport 1.6 VTi 120: £14,395
Sport 1.6 THP 150: £15,395
Sport HDi 110: £15,895
Sport HDi 136: £16,645
GT 1.6 THP 150: £18,195
GT HDi 136: £19,445

5 Door

Urban 1.4 VTi 95: £12,595
Urban HDi 90: £13,895
S 1.4 VTi 95: £13,495
S 1.6 VTi 120: £14,095
S HDi 90: £14,795
S HDi 110: £15,595
Sport 1.6 VTi 120: £14,995
Sport 1.6 THP 150: £15,995
Sport HDi 110: £16,495
Sport HDi 136: £17,245
SE 1.6 VTi 120: £15,895
SE 1.6 THP 150: £16,895
SE HDi 110: £17,395
SE HDi 136: £18,145
GT THP 150: £18,795
GT HDi 136: £20,045

Standard equipment on all models includes: power steering, driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, curtain airbags, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows, steering column adjustable for reach and rake, radio / single CD player, passenger / driver seat height adjustment, ABS with EBFD and EBA, trip computer, electrically operated door mirrors…

The S version adds: front fog lights, manual air conditioning, body coloured door mirrors and door handles.

The Sport version adds: steering column airbag, cruise control with speed limiter, rear electric windows, front seat arm rests and boot net, fully body coloured exterior, leather steering wheel, ESP, radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility and diversity system, sports front grille styling, 17″ alloy wheels.

The SE version adds: ambience pack (fragrance diffuser, ambient interior lighting), Cielo panoramic glass roof, electric folding mirrors, comfort pack (lumbar support, height adjustable rear head restraints, under seat storage trays, flip-up tables and rear seat arm rest), electro chrome rear view mirror, visibility pack (auto headlamps & wipers), dual zone air conditioning, sports style rear bumper and 16″ alloy wheels.

The GT version adds: half leather interior, carpet mats, tyre pressure sensors, alarm, rear parking sensors, headlamp washers, xenon directional headlamps and washers, Bluetooth hands free kit, colour multi-function display and 18″ alloy wheels.

In its pearlescent white and green colour scheme, two colours chosen as symbols of purity and ecology, the 308 Hybrid HDi demonstrator is the eagerly anticipated star of the environmental section of Peugeot’s stand at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.

This new 308 Hybrid HDi demonstrator represents another step on the path towards the planned commercialisation of the technology in 2010. Further evaluation of the original Peugeot 307 Hybrid HDi demonstrator in 2006 has confirmed the choice of a diesel engine, instead of a petrol engine, as the best option to provide the best reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.

The demonstrator is powered by Peugeot’s most efficient parallel hybrid powerplant to date, combined with a 6-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox. It has a 110 bhp 1.6 HDi DPFS diesel engine coupled with a 22 bhp electric motor providing a maximum power output of 132 bhp, comparable to that of the 308 with the 2.0 litre HDi DPFS 136 bhp diesel engine. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 83 mpg and 90g/km of CO2 or a reduction of 38% compared to an equivalent 308 diesel HDi model.

In addition, the engine has been designed to meet the future Euro V directive which comes into force in 2009 and offers the possibility of driving exclusively in electric or “ZEV” (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode for journeys in regulated urban centres.

The excellent aerodynamic performance of the 308 hatchback and the use of Michelin’s new Energy Saver tyres, which reduce rolling resistance, help to enhance further its performance.

Compared to the previous 307 Hybrid HDi demonstrator presented in 2006, the focus of the development has now switched to concentrating on the packaging of the hybrid technology into the structure of the new 308, and to ensure its compatibility with the future Euro V emission standards.

To ensure a competitive purchase price, priority has been given to using as many components as possible from current Peugeot vehicles. This has enabled the number of specific parts associated with the hybridisation of the 308 to be reduced by around 30% compared to the previous 307 Hybrid HDi demonstrator.

The vehicle is started by a customary ignition key but, unlike a conventional vehicle, this does not start the diesel engine. Instead by pressing the accelerator pedal with the gearbox in automatic mode, the electric motor powers the vehicle. The diesel engine only operates when required and is controlled by a stop and start system. All the powertrain operating modes are controlled by a Power Train Management Unit (PTMU) according to the driver’s requirements.

The driver is informed in real time of the powertrain operating mode by a schematic diagram on the vehicle’s colour multifunction display. Other information is also available, such as the battery charge status or the power train operation mode.

The comprehensively equipped demonstrator has all the standard equipment of a Premium Pack 308 and also includes a panoramic glass roof and the RT4 multi-media system with a retractable colour display screen. The level of standard equipment, interior space, interior brightness, dynamic qualities and driveability are no different to those of the standard 308.

General dynamic performance is also comparable to a standard 308 HDi. In-gear acceleration, however, both in town and on the open road, is improved with the Hybrid HDi. Indeed, during in-gear acceleration, the diesel engine is backed up by the electric motor which is able on demand to deliver a power boost of up to 31 bhp (and 96 lb ft of torque).

The parallel hybrid power train consists of a 1.6 litre HDi DPFS 110 bhp diesel engine and an electric motor with a continuous output of 22 bhp and a torque of 59 lb ft. The Power Train Management Unit (PTMU) selects the right distribution of power from both units to meet the requirements of the driver and minimise fuel consumption.

The electric motor alone is responsible for starting and driving at low speed, while only the diesel engine is used on open roads and motorways, with both units coming into play simultaneously to provide quicker acceleration. The system is fitted with a 6-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox able to operate in automatic or manual sequential mode.

To extend the battery range, kinetic energy recovered during phases of deceleration and braking is used to recharge the batteries. A special button provides access to an all-electric “ZEV” Zero Emission Vehicle mode. Operation of the diesel engine is then restricted to more pronounced acceleration phases or high speed driving. This "ZEV" mode provides total absence of exhaust emissions and noise pollution.

The electric motor is of the synchronous type with permanent magnets, developing a continuous power of 22 bhp and a torque of 59 lb ft. However, intermittently its output can attain 31 bhp and 96 lb ft.

An inverter regulates the 150 to 260 volt current from the high voltage battery pack supplying the electric motor in accordance with the torque requirements determined by the Power Train Management Unit (PTMU).

A new generation battery pack has been developed which delivers an output of 200 volts. It is housed in the spare wheel well and does not, therefore, reduce the available boot volume. The batteries are of the Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) type.

A converter converts the 200 V from the battery pack into 12 V to supply the vehicle equipment in phases of solely electrical operation.

Managed braking maximises the recharging of the batteries during phases of deceleration and braking. An Intelligent control of the braking optimises the distribution between regenerative electric braking and traditional dissipative hydraulic braking. The braking management system gives priority to braking efficiency over the recovery of energy.

With the SW concept which first appeared in 2002 with the launch of the 307 SW, Peugeot created a new motoring concept which has since become available in other models in the range. Today the “SW” is synonymous with a true life style car. The abbreviation also symbolises practicality and versatility, allowing the particular car to adapt to its user’s many wishes.

One of the SW’s key features is the panoramic glass roof, offering extraordinary levels of interior brightness and an unprecedented feeling of space and visibility, particularly for the rear passengers.

Capitalising on the strengths of the 308 hatchback, the 308 SW Prologue concept car, while asserting its own personality, takes the definition of the SW even further.

The 308 SW Prologue combines the familiar “face” of the 308 with a very original design at the rear allowing the possibility of also installing a third row of seats.

The front of the vehicle, with its aluminium-coloured front grille and xenon directional headlamps, shares the same design as the 308 three and five door hatchback models. From the side, the forward-positioned window line and highly original shape of the rear quarter light windows create a dynamism that is rare in this segment. The windows also provide good visibility for any passengers seated in the third row. The Aluminium coloured roof bars add a dash of elegance to the overall design.

The bold design at the rear is based on the idea of a wrap-around single piece rear tailgate glass. The design of the tailgate glass also takes into account the need for rear access and visibility and can be opened independently of the tailgate, making loading easier. The tailgate provides a wide access area to the inside of the car and also a particularly low load sill for maximum practicality.

The interior fascia panel, with its very simple and fluid design, matches those of the hatchback and is fully trimmed with Aniline brown leather creating a reflective pearlescent finish. Leather can also be found on the seats and door interior trim panels. Combined with the use of other high quality materials, such as linen and Sandstone coloured silk on the seats and door trims, the brightness from the large glazed surface area, including the panoramic glass roof, generates a soft glow that reinforces the overall quality of the interior. The rims of the air vents, instruments, door handles and the surround of the gear lever knob are coated with sprayed nickel adding their own touch of class to the interior.

The quality feel of the vehicles even extends into a bespoke luggage set which has been produced using the same materials found in the passenger compartment. This can easily be accommodated between the two second row seats, where it then serves as an armrest.

Careful attention has been paid to the modularity of the vehicle to allow it to adapt to all possible situations that could be encountered by those who will use it. For example, there are individual rear seats, identical in size, which can be folded, removed and positioned in many different positions in the rear of the vehicle. The second row can, therefore, accommodate up to three seats with different spacing possibilities. Each of these seats can then also be positioned in the third row. For maximum practicality, the third row can also accommodate extra ‘occasional’ seats which have a specific design, enabling the vehicle to seat up to seven people. In addition, the front passenger seat, which can be folded flat into a ‘desk’ configuration, also allows a maximum load length of more than three metres if required.

The 308 SW Prologue concept car is powered by the 2.0 litre HDi DPFS 136 bhp engine equipped with an additive-enhanced diesel particulate filter system (DPFS). Its excellent performance offers genuine driving pleasure and complete peace of mind. Its HDi DPFS technology, in accordance with the spirit of the car, ensures it is environmentally-friendly, with reduced CO2 emissions and the complete eradication of particulate emissions.