PEUGEOT in Malaysia has had a rocky few years and now there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel with a new brand guardian. Berjaya Auto Alliance has officially taken over the Peugeot brand from Nasim and they will need some time to re-start marketing, branding and new model launches.
Meanwhile, Peugeot is busy with a raft of new models and some will be coming to Malaysia in due time. This is one Peugeot model that should be launched and will probably get rivals like the Golf GTi and the Mercedes A Class a little concerned. Yes, this is a brand new hot hatch and there is a plug-in hybrid version to get that all important EEV certificate for that slightly favorable selling price.
ATTRACTIVE looks
This new Peugeot 308 continues the brand's commitment to striking design with its sleek dynamic design. Peugeot engineers have given it an extra 55mm longer wheelbase so there is more room for rear seat passengers, while this extra length also combines with a 20mm height reduction to create an even sleeker silhouette and a more powerful stance, despite being no wider than before.
At the front, the new Peugeot 308 is the first model to proudly feature the brand's new logo, a roaring lion's head. The logo also neatly covers the radar used by the autonomous driving aids for a sleeker look.
All variants of the new 308 feature LED headlights as standard. Chiseled and slim, they are enhanced by the brand's trademark vertical LED daytime running lights. This distinctive light signature makes the new 308 instantly recognisable during both night and day. At the rear, the tail lights feature full LED technology with Peugeot's iconic three claw rear light signature.
Aerodynamic efficiency plays a large part in the design of the new 308 as it delivers an impressive overall drag coefficient figure of Cd 0.28.
The new 308 will be available with seven colour options: Olivine Green, Bianca White, Cumulus Grey, Nera Black, Pearlescent White, Vertigo Blue and Elixir Red.
NEW Peugeot i-Cockpit
Peugeot's class-leading i-Cockpit gets a brand-new infotainment system. Conveniently located at eye level, the 10-inch digital instrument cluster gives the driver access to crucial information without having to take their eyes off the road.
The bold interior design also highlights the variety and quality of materials that have been used in its construction. LED ambient lighting features eight colour options where it lights up the door panels which, depending on the trim level, features soft touch foam, fabric, or Alcantara.
TECHNOLOGY for the driver
This new Peugeot 308 features the latest generation driving aids which help to keep both occupants and other road users safe. The Drive Assist pack includes adaptive cruise control with Stop and Go function and Lane Keeping Assistance. It also has three new functions for use on dual carriageways and motorways:
- Semi-automatic lane change – The driver suggests a lane change maneuver by setting the direction indicators. The system performs a semi-automatic lane change manoeuver if appropriate conditions are met and confirmed by the driver.
- Anticipated speed recommendation – the system suggests to the driver that they adapt their speed (acceleration or deceleration) according to the speed limit signs.
- Curve speed adaptation – at speeds of up to 112mph (where legal) the set-up optimises the car's speed according to the severity of the bend.
Built on an evolution of Peugeot's innovative and adaptable EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform) structure, the new 308 is stronger, safer and more spacious than ever. It also allows the option of electrified powertrains for the first time, while new structural elements deliver even greater efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort.
The boot has a generous 412 liters of luggage capacity, with a further 28 liters of storage in a hidden compartmentalised area beneath the floor. With the rear seats folded flat, the maximum capacity increases to 1,323-litres.
Refined and comfortable interior
The seats of the new Peugeot 308 have been designed with comfort in mind and have been awarded the coveted AGR (Aktion für Gesunder Rücken) thanks to their ergonomics and range of adjustment. 10-way electric adjustment with two memory settings is available as an option, as is a multi-point massage system with several different programs.
The quality of the materials used also enhances the comfort and premium feel, with evolutionary mottled fabric, technical mesh, Alcantara, embossed leather and colored Nappa leather (available as an option depending on trim). On GT versions there is also Adamite contrast stitching, which is used on the dashboard, door panels and center console.
Engine
There will be not one but two plug-in hybrid Peugeot 308 models. Both are front-wheel drive, with one electric motor accompanying a 1.6-litre petrol engine. Together, the motor and engine produce either 178bhp or 222bhp, which will give brisk 0-100km/h acceleration times and up to 37 miles of electric range between charges.
For efficiency there is a 1.2-litre petrol engine which offers 108bhp or 128bhp. The plug-in hybrids get an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
HOT version
Peugeot also has a 296bhp four-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid powertrain, with a second electric motor that is mounted on the rear axle. This will be the hot hatch version that some Malaysians will want. – The Vibes, March 23, 2021
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