8.2.2011 Peugeot to launch 308 'micro-hybrid'

The New Peugeot 308 'micro-hybrid' will be launched in the UK in May with a new look, a range of innovative technology and CO2 emissions from just 98g/km.

Since launch in 2007 over 900,000 308 models have been sold worldwide. In the UK alone, over 84,000 vehicles have been sold making it the second most popular Peugeot model of all time.

At launch, four petrol and four diesel engines will be available, all to be Euro 5 compliant. Peugeot's innovative 'micro-hybrid' e-HDi Stop & Start technology is the latest generation technology and combined with Peugeot's class leading 1.6 litre e-HDi FAP 112 Euro 5 diesel engine, the greenest model in the range returns CO2 emissions of just 98g/km.

Note that the 'micro-hybrid' is not a true hybrid car (like the Toyota Prius), but has start-stop technology that reduces fuel use and emissions. Most start-stop models have a more powerful battery and starter motor than conventional equivalents to allow repeated engine restarts.

This engine option will also be available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox (EGC), accrediting the new Peugeot 308 with the lowest emissions in its segment. Being below the 100g/km threshold, the e-HDi FAP 112 diesel model will be exempt from both VED tax and London's Congestion Charge.

To ensure the New Peugeot 308 is as environmentally efficient as possible all factors affecting CO2emissions have been optimised;
* Overall weight reduced by 25 kg on average on all models
* Fitment of new 16" ultra low rolling resistance tyres
* Optimisation of all engine options (VTi, THP petrol and HDi diesel engines to Euro5)
* Drag Coefficient of 0.28 for the low consumption models (Record for this segment)

This also enables the New Peugeot 308 HDi FAP 92 model, fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox, to emit CO2emissions of only 110 g/km.

All models feature air conditioning, ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), ABS, EBFD, EBA, front and rear electric windows with child security, remote control central door locking with deadlocks and six SMART safety airbags.

The New Peugeot 308 is being launched onto the UK market integrating all the latest Peugeot styling elements already seen on the Peugeot 508 and the SR1 Concept Car. The new Peugeot 308 will be available in three body styles; Hatchback, CC and SW, and four multi-model trim levels; Access, SR, Active and Allure. A range topping hatchback and CC THP 200 model will also be available in a single GT trim level.

The New Peugeot 308 will be launched at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and go on sale in the UK in May. The new range will start from £15,245 on-the-road with an improved standard specification to the current model.

Peugeot