New Peugeot 308 : First impression

Peugeot was supposed to bring in its executive hatchback’s facelift version a few months earlier. However, better late than never. The French company has got most of its product line up updated, and the new 308 was one of the last few models left.

The 2018 Peugeot 308 then makes sense amongst the competition like the Mazda 3 as well as the Honda Jazz. While we will be comparing them at a later stage and also reviewing the Peugeot 308 facelift, here are our first impressions of the latest hatchback from France.

Design

French cars always have a flair. Be it, Renault or Peugeot. The Peugeot 308 is no different. Especially the facelifted version. The silhouette of the headlights have been retained, but the elements have undergone a change. The fog lights, as well as the DRLs, are new too.

One look and you will also notice that the grille has changed with the gnawing lion logo now positioned on it. The pre-facelift model had it on the bonnet. You will also like the darker shade of the two-tone Saphir 18-inch wheels. At the back, the lights are linked with the DRLs, and this means they switch-on the moment the car starts. The length, width, and height of the car are 4,253 mm x 1804 mm x 1,446 mm respectively.

Interior

Most of it is familiar from the outgoing car. However, Peugeot has a trick or two up its sleeves. The i-Cockpit infotainment system is slightly updated. It is still crisp but isn’t any bigger than before. It will show you a lot of detail and along with it brings in Apple or Android Phone connectivity. Native Peugeot apps too are available on the screen. Speaking of which, Peugeot has put in a lower resolution multi-information display.

If you look at the facelifted Peugeot 308 technical specification, you will also notice that there are two trims on offer, the THP, and GTI. Most of the goodies are reserved for the higher up GTI model, but the THP isn’t bare basic as well.

The Peugeot 308 facelift THP gets keyless entry, push-button start, six speakers, dual-zone climate control and a reverse camera. The upholstery is done in part leather. There, however, is no sunroof on offer. The wheelbase of the car is retained from the outgoing unit at 2,620 mm.

Engine

The Peugeot 308 facelift continues with its engine option. However, the 1.6-litre THP turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine gets a jump in power. The new power rating stands at 167 PS while the torque stays put at 240 Nm. Peugeot also continues with its 6-speed automatic transmission that has been sourced from Aisin.

Safety features

The new Peugeot 308 specifications retain its safety dragnet, and that is a good thing. For starters, there are six airbags, ABS along with EBD, hill start assist as well as stability control. Brake assist too is standard. However, for the lower THP model, adaptive cruise control, as well as emergency autonomous braking, have been given the skip. These though are available in the top end GTI trim.

Final words and pricing

The Peugeot 308 facelift price in Malaysia starts from RM 129,88. This is for the THP trim, and prices for the GTI haven’t been declared yet, however it is expected to be around RM 199,888. However, given the trend, one can expect it to be around RM 10,000 more. Most of the Peugeot showrooms have just started receiving stocks of the updated 308. However one can still find the car in most mall displays. With the facelift, the car has become more relevant and will keep the boy racers and family men happy.