Peugeot 308
Exploring the evolution of Peugeot's iconic compact car, from its inception to its modern iterations.
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Overview
Vehicle Classification
The Peugeot 308 is a small family car (C-segment) or compact car, manufactured by the French automotive marque Peugeot. It serves as a successor to the Peugeot 307, positioned within Peugeot's lineup between the smaller 208 and the larger 508.
Production Timeline
The 308 series commenced production in 2007 and continues to the present day. It has undergone multiple generations and facelifts, adapting to market demands and technological advancements. The initial launch featured the hatchback body style, followed by estate, coupé cabriolet, and sedan variants in subsequent years.
Accolades
The second generation of the Peugeot 308 achieved significant recognition, being awarded the prestigious European Car of the Year title in 2014. It also garnered numerous other awards from automotive publications and organizations across various European markets.
Generations
First Generation (T7; 2007–2013)
Launched in 2007, the first-generation 308 (T7) utilized a modified chassis from its predecessor, the 307. It was available in multiple body styles: a five-door hatchback, a three-door hatchback (in limited markets), a station wagon (SW), a coupé cabriolet (CC), and a sedan version (408) primarily for the Chinese market. This generation featured engines ranging from 1.4L petrol to 2.0L diesel, with a notable GTi performance variant introduced later. It achieved a drag coefficient of 0.29, later improved to 0.28 after a 2011 facelift. The 308 HDi model held a Guinness World Record for fuel efficiency.
Second Generation (T9; 2013–2021)
Unveiled in 2013 and built on the PSA EMP2 platform, the second-generation 308 marked a significant departure with a redesigned exterior and interior, including the distinctive Peugeot i-Cockpit. This generation achieved a 140 kg weight reduction compared to its predecessor. It was lauded for its driving dynamics and efficiency, earning the 2014 European Car of the Year award. Engine options included efficient PureTech petrol engines and BlueHDi diesel engines. High-performance GTi models were also offered. A facelift in 2017 introduced updated styling and features, followed by a 2020 update featuring the digital i-Cockpit. Production concluded in May 2021.
Third Generation (P5; 2021–Present)
The current, third-generation 308 debuted in March 2021, based on an updated EMP2 platform (V3). It features a sharper design language, incorporating Peugeot's new corporate identity and logo. Standard equipment includes LED lighting and advanced driver-assistance systems. This generation introduced electrified powertrains, offering plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants with outputs of 180 PS and 225 PS. A fully electric version, the e-308, was introduced later, equipped with a 54 kWh battery. The station wagon variant was released in June 2021, and a crossover derivative was launched as the Peugeot 408 in 2022. A facelift is anticipated for August 2025.
Design Philosophy
Exterior Evolution
The Peugeot 308's design has evolved significantly across generations. The first generation featured a more conventional aesthetic, while the second generation introduced a sleeker, more sculpted appearance. The third generation adopts Peugeot's latest design language, characterized by sharp lines, a prominent grille featuring the new Peugeot lion emblem, and distinctive vertical LED daytime running lights. The overall silhouette has become more aerodynamic, contributing to improved efficiency.
Interior Innovation
Peugeot's commitment to innovative interior design is evident in the 308. The second generation introduced the i-Cockpit, featuring a compact steering wheel, a high-mounted instrument cluster, and a central touchscreen. The third generation further refines this concept with a digital instrument cluster and an updated infotainment system, emphasizing premium materials and driver-centric ergonomics. The station wagon (SW) variants offer enhanced practicality with flexible seating arrangements and increased cargo capacity.
Safety Performance
Euro NCAP Ratings
The Peugeot 308 has consistently achieved high safety ratings in independent crash tests conducted by Euro NCAP. The first generation (2007) earned a 5-star overall rating, with strong scores in adult and child occupant protection. The second generation (2013) also received a 5-star rating, demonstrating advancements in safety features and structural integrity. The latest third generation (2022) achieved a 4-star rating, reflecting updated testing protocols that place greater emphasis on active safety systems.
First Generation (2007):
- Adult Occupant: 5/5 stars
- Child Occupant: 4/5 stars
- Pedestrian: 3/4 stars
Key Safety Systems
Across its generations, the Peugeot 308 has incorporated a range of passive and active safety features. These include multiple airbags, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and emergency brake assist (EBA). Higher trims and later models feature advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree parking assistance, and automatic emergency braking.
Sales and Production Data
European Market Performance
The Peugeot 308 has demonstrated strong sales performance, particularly in the European market. Production figures indicate significant volumes, peaking in the years following its launch and subsequent facelifts. For instance, European sales reached over 230,000 units in 2008 and 2009. While sales saw fluctuations, the model remained a key contributor to Peugeot's overall sales volume throughout its lifecycle.
Global Production Footprint
Beyond its primary manufacturing base in France (Mulhouse and Sochaux plants), the Peugeot 308 has been produced in other global locations to serve regional markets. These include Kaluga (Russia) for the Russian market, Wuhan (China) for the Chinese market via DPCA, and El Palomar (Argentina) for the South American market. Production in Argentina continued until 2021.
Production Statistics
Cumulative production milestones highlight the model's success. By the end of 2011, total production had surpassed 1 million units. The first generation continued production in Argentina until 2021, long after its discontinuation in Europe. The table below summarizes key production and sales figures for the European market.
| Year | Europe Sales |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 43,256 |
| 2008 | 231,804 |
| 2009 | 225,949 |
| 2010 | 180,575 |
| 2011 | 155,272 |
| 2012 | 119,143 |
| 2013 | 99,697 |
| 2014 | 161,515 |
| 2015 | 213,764 |
| 2016 | 194,650 |
| 2017 | 157,422 |
| 2018 | 153,651 |
| 2019 | 141,060 |
| 2020 | 90,324 |
| 2021 | 53,356 |
| 2022 | 90,160 |
Awards and Recognition
European Car of the Year 2014
The second-generation Peugeot 308 received the highly coveted "European Car of the Year" award in March 2014. It triumphed over strong competition, including the BMW i3 and Tesla Model S, based on evaluations by a panel of automotive journalists across Europe. This award underscored the model's advancements in design, technology, and driving performance.
Other Notable Accolades
Beyond the European Car of the Year title, the 308 garnered numerous other distinctions. It was recognized as "Car of the Year" by Auto Europa in Italy and by various Swiss magazines, including Schweizer Illustrierte. These awards reflect the broad appeal and critical acclaim the Peugeot 308 received across different markets for its blend of style, comfort, and efficiency.
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References
References
- https://cdn.euroncap.com/media/8798/euroncap_peugeot_308_2007_5stars.pdf
- https://cdn.euroncap.com/media/5994/euroncap_peugeot_308_2013_5stars.pdf
- https://cdn.euroncap.com/media/69655/euroncap-2022-peugeot-308-datasheet.pdf
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and relevance, the content is based on information available up to the last update and may not reflect the absolute latest specifications or market changes.
This is not automotive advice. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional consultation with automotive experts, dealerships, or official manufacturer resources. Always consult official documentation and qualified professionals for specific automotive needs or purchasing decisions.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.