The Peugeot 308 I (Phase II, 2011) 1.6 e-HDi represents a mid-cycle refresh of the first generation 308, a compact hatchback designed to compete in the highly competitive European C-segment. Introduced in 2007, the 308 aimed to replace the aging 307, offering improved refinement, safety, and driving dynamics. The Phase II update, launched in 2011, brought styling revisions, enhanced interior materials, and crucially, the introduction of Peugeot’s e-HDi diesel technology, focusing on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 was a significant model for Peugeot, representing a key part of their lineup in Europe and other international markets.
Peugeot 308 I (Phase II): A Focus on Efficiency
The 2011 refresh of the 308 focused heavily on improving the car’s environmental credentials. The 1.6 e-HDi variant, equipped with a 1.6-liter diesel engine and the EGS6 automated manual transmission, exemplifies this strategy. This powertrain combined a turbocharged diesel engine with Stop & Start technology and a particulate filter to minimize emissions and maximize fuel economy. The e-HDi system was a key selling point for the 308 in Europe, where diesel engines and fuel efficiency are highly valued by consumers. The EGS6 transmission, while offering automated shifting, was often criticized for its less-than-smooth operation compared to traditional automatic gearboxes.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 308 1.6 e-HDi lies a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated 9HR DV6C. This engine produces 112 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to both power output and efficiency. The engine’s displacement is 1560 cm³ (95.2 cu. in.), and it features a compression ratio of 16:1. Fuel is delivered via a diesel commonrail injection system. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.4 seconds and a top speed of 194 km/h (120.55 mph). While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 308 1.6 e-HDi prioritizes fuel economy, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 4.0 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg or 70.6 UK mpg) and CO2 emissions of 104 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 I Phase II is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. The body style is typical of the European C-segment, prioritizing practicality and space efficiency. The 2011 refresh included subtle styling changes to the front and rear fascias, including revised headlights and a new grille. Inside, the cabin received updated materials and trim, aiming for a more premium feel. Key features of the 308 included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic power steering, and a McPherson independent suspension at the front and an elastic beam suspension at the rear. Trunk space is a practical 348 liters (12.29 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1201 liters (42.41 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. The vehicle’s curb weight is 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs). The drag coefficient of 0.28 contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 I (Phase II, 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-HDi (112 Hp) EGS6 |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HR DV6C |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4276 mm (168.35 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1526 mm (60.08 in.) |
| Rear track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Front overhang | 926 mm (36.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 742 mm (29.21 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission EGS |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |

