The Peugeot 308 I (Phase I) is a compact hatchback that was produced by the French automaker Peugeot between 2007 and 2010. Representing Peugeot’s entry into the competitive C-segment, the 308 aimed to replace the aging 307, offering a more refined driving experience, improved interior quality, and a more contemporary design. While not initially sold in the United States, the 308 was a significant model for Peugeot in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The Phase I models, like the 1.6 16V VTi 3-door variant detailed here, established the 308 as a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical, stylish, and reasonably efficient hatchback.
Peugeot 308 I (Phase I): Overview and Market Position
The first generation Peugeot 308, designated as the T7, was a crucial model for the brand. It marked a shift towards higher quality and a more focused approach to driving dynamics. The 308 was available in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback configurations, as well as a station wagon (SW) body style. The 1.6 16V VTi engine, producing 120 horsepower, was a common engine choice, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy. In Europe, the 308 was praised for its comfortable ride, precise steering, and well-appointed interior. It quickly became a sales success for Peugeot, solidifying its position in the highly competitive compact car segment.
Engine & Performance
The 308 I (Phase I) 1.6 16V VTi is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, internally designated as the 5FW EP6. This naturally aspirated engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for efficient combustion and a relatively responsive power delivery. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.8 seconds and a maximum speed of 197 km/h (122.41 mph). The 0-60 mph acceleration is calculated at 10.3 seconds. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.3 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 8.5 kg/Nm. The engine’s displacement of 1598 cm³ (97.52 cu. in.) and a compression ratio of 11:1 contribute to its overall efficiency.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 I (Phase I) features a distinctive hatchback design. The 3-door version, as described here, offers a sportier aesthetic compared to the 5-door model. The car’s dimensions are 4276 mm (168.35 in) in length, 1815 mm (71.46 in) in width, and 1498 mm (58.98 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2608 mm (102.68 in). Inside, the 308 offers seating for five passengers. Key features of the Phase I models included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as a standard safety feature. The interior design focused on providing a comfortable and functional space for both driver and passengers. Trunk space is a practical 348 liters (12.29 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1201 liters (42.41 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The car’s kerb weight is 1352 kg (2980.65 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1802 kg (3972.73 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 I (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V VTi (120 Hp) 3d |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FW EP6 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm³ (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1352 kg (2980.65 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1802 kg (3972.73 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 348 l (12.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1201 l (42.41 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4276 mm (168.35 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1526 mm (60.08 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65R15 91T; 205/55R16 91T; 225/45R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5Jx15; 7Jx16; 7.5J x 17 |
The Peugeot 308 I (Phase I) 1.6 16V VTi 3-door represents a significant step forward for Peugeot in the compact hatchback segment. Its blend of style, practicality, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice for European drivers, and it laid the foundation for the continued success of the 308 model line.
