The Peugeot 308 made its Malta debut last Friday when local agents Michael Attard Ltd (www.peugeot.com.mt) unveiled the latest model to grace its showroom. With the new saloon making its appearance in the medium-size car segment, Peugeot has assembled all the ingredients required to attract a very broad clientele.
The 308 will be the first Peugeot of the new '8' generation. It will be available in four trim levels: Comfort Pack, Premium, Premium Pack, and Feline.
It will initially replace the Peugeot 307 hatchback range with the introduction of the five-door model and the three-door model in December. The 308 will come with six engine options, four petrol engines and three HDi diesel engines.
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).
Its semi-elevated architecture creates a spacious, light-filled interior with excellent visibility. To achieve its ambitions, the 308 integrates a host of elements such as distinctive styling, high quality levels, high performance and environment-friendly engines and, of course, optimum safety.
EuroNCAP has awarded the 308 a five-star rating for its adult driver and passenger protection tests, a four-star rating for its child passenger protection tests and a three-star rating for its pedestrian protection tests.
These results confirm the combined efficiency of a vehicle structure designed to best withstand, absorb and dissipate energy generated by head-on and side impacts, as well as the close protection devices that offer maximum safety, support and protection to the vehicle's occupants.
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 inches, are also available.
The 308 not only looks good but also helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The 1.6 HDi 90 emits only 120g/km of CO2 and has a combined fuel consumption of 62.7 mpg.
Standard equipment on all 308s includes power steering, driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, manual air conditioning, remote control central locking, electric front windows, steering column adjustable for reach and rake, CD tuner, ABS with EBFD and EBA, and electric door mirrors.
The Premium Pack version specs include 16-inch alloy wheels and cielo panoramic glass roof. The Feline version comes with half leather interior, front parking assistance, 17-inch alloy wheels with tyre pressure sensors and ESP.