2009 Peugeot 308 GT

Peugeot 308 is a replacement model for one of the most successful Peugeot models of all-time, the 307, that racked up 3.2 million sales worldwide since its launch in 2001. The 308 sits on the same basic framework, but is bigger in almost every dimension.
Four engines has been offered; a new 110kW 1.6-litre turbcharged petrol engine, an 88kW naturally-aspirated version of the same engine, and carried-over 1.6-litre (80kW) and 2.0-litre (100kW) four-cylinder diesels.The HDi engines will be mated to manual gearboxes initially - a five-speed for 1.6 diesel and six speeds for 2.0 diesel.

The 308 has been awarded the maximum five-star safety rating for occupant protection by independent safety body NCAP.

The Peugeot 308 will also introduce a lane-departure warning system. A camera mounted in the front end monitors lane markings and the driver's seat will vibrate if the car strays across white markings without the indicator being used.

Later in 2008, Peugeot will add a Touring (wagon) version and a CC (coupe-cabriolet) model to replace the 307 CC. In 2009 Peugeot is expected to launch a coupe rival for the Audi TT , previewed by the RC Z concept that debuted at this year's Frankfurt motor show.

Peugeot's first hybrid is expected to join the range in 2010 - powered by a drivetrain comprising 1.6-litre diesel four-cylinder and an electric motor. Peugeot says that unlike the Corolla-sized Toyota Prius, the 308 Hybrid will cost only a relatively small premium over the 1.6-litre diesel model.The 308, looks more like a facelift on the outside. Stepping inside reveals a cabin reconstruction that answers the criticism levelled at the 307's quality, if not roominess.

While Peugeot claims a fraction more knee room (in the rear) and elbow room (in the front), a one-piece dash moulded from soft-touch plastic, tactile dials and buttons, and a row of chrome-ringed air vents form the centrepiece of a vastly improved interior.

The 308's better designed, more luxurious feeling cabin is arguably the new benchmark in small-car interiors.Luxury is a word that described the ride quality of Peugeots of old, but the 307 was one of the prime examples of how the French brand has struggled with suspension tuning more recently. The 307's ride could be jiggly and crashy, but rarely compliant.

The new 308 refines the 307's suspension configuration to more effectively cushion occupants from rougher roads, at least on the models we test drove at the launch in France.

Peugeot says the 1.6-litre turbo 308 is a tenth quicker (8.8sec) than the 2.0-litre petrol 307 from zero to 100km/h.

The engine responds strongly from low revs, and shows a willingness to utilise the engine's full rev range.