EVOLUTIONARY LOOKS The 308 sets no new ground in styling

By Justin Lee

LOCAL PEUGEOT DISTRIBUTOR AutoFrance will unveil the new Peugeot 308 on 30th May. The car comes to Singapore more than a year after its European launch.

The exterior of the 308 takes styling cues from its 207 sibling looking very much like an enlarged version of the smaller vehicle. It also follows the brand’s current design language where there is a gaping radiator grille at the front as premiered on the 407 sedan. The rear has a bustle back design which is faintly reminiscent of another French car, the Renault Megane hatch.

Its interior has a tasteful looking fascia with the most prominent stylistic touch being the circular air-con vents.

Buyers can choose between a normally aspirated or turbocharged 1.6-litre 16-valve engine equipped with variable valve timing. The former produces 120bhp while the latter produces 140bhp. This engine is also utilised in the 207 and the BMW group’s Mini Cooper as it was developed by Peugeot and Citroën in collaboration with the German brand.

The 308 comes with a high level of active and passive safety equipment such as six airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist.

Prices for the 308 are as follows:

1.6 120bhp - $82,900 with COE
1.6 Turbo 140bhp - $90,900 with COE