Peugeot is electrifying the next-generation 308 compact with two plug-in hybrid drivetrains that offer 60 km (37 miles) of battery-only range to challenge the segment-leading Volkswagen Golf GTE.
The new 308 is also longer and lower than the current model. It is built on an updated version of the EMP2 architecture developed by PSA Group (now part of Stellantis) that is used on compacts and midsize models from Citroen, DS Automobiles and Peugeot. There are also gasoline and diesel engines available.
The new will go on sale in the second half.
Peugeot has not announced prices, or when an expected station wagon version will be shown.
Compared with the current 308, the new car is 110 mm (4.3 inches) longer, its wheelbase has increased by 55 mm, and its height has been reduced by 20 mm.
There are two plug-in hybrid options: 225 hp, with a 180-hp gasoline engine and 81-kilowatt electric motor; and 180 hp, with a 150-hp gasoline engine and 81-kW electric motor. Peugeot says electric-only range is 60 km (37 miles), pending final WLTP certification.
Peugeot has not released CO2 emissions information, but the brand's other plug-in hybrids -- the 3008 compact SUV and 508 midsize hatchback and station wagon -- are certified for just under 50 grams per km.
The new 308's 12.4-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery has a charging time of just under two hours with a 7.4-kW wallbox.
Non-hybrid options include a three-cylinder, 1.2-liter gasoline engine with 110 hp or 130 hp, and a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder diesel with 130 hp.
Inside, the 308 has the latest version of Peugeot's I-Cockpit, which has a small steering wheel that sits below the instrument panel. Higher-trim versions have a 3D display, which can be configured to prioritize alerts or navigation, for example. The main instrument cluster is a 10-inch horizontal panel, and a 10-inch horizontal central screen is standard.
Connectivity upgrades include the ability to connect two smartphones via Bluetooth at one time, and mirroring is now wireless.
