The Peugeot 308 II, launched in 2013, represented a significant step forward for the French automaker, aiming to compete more effectively in the highly competitive European C-segment hatchback market. This second generation of the 308, designated Phase I from 2013 to 2017, was designed with a focus on weight reduction, improved fuel efficiency, and a more refined driving experience. The 1.6 THP (Turbo High Pressure) variant, producing 156 horsepower, was a popular choice, offering a balance of performance and economy. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 II was a key model for Peugeot in Europe, known for its stylish design and practical features.
Peugeot 308 II (Phase I): A Detailed Overview
The 308 II marked a departure from its predecessor, adopting Peugeot’s new “Blue Lion” design language. It aimed to appeal to a broader audience with a more sophisticated and modern aesthetic. The Phase I models, including the 1.6 THP, were characterized by their efficient powertrains and a focus on driver comfort. The vehicle was positioned as a direct competitor to models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, offering a French alternative with a distinct character.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 308 II 1.6 THP is its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. Designated 5FV EP6DT or EP6CDT, this engine delivers 156 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1400 rpm. This configuration provides a responsive driving experience, with ample torque available from low engine speeds. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to maximize efficiency and power output. The 1.6 THP engine achieves a power-to-liter ratio of 97.6 hp/l. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) combined, with 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) in urban conditions and 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 129 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 II Phase I is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by a sleek profile, sculpted lines, and a distinctive front grille incorporating the Peugeot lion emblem. The interior features a minimalist dashboard layout with a focus on ergonomics. A key feature of the 308 II was its reduced weight, achieved through the use of lightweight materials and a redesigned chassis. This weight reduction contributed to improved fuel efficiency and handling. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels offered options such as a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and parking sensors. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The trunk offers 420 liters (14.83 cu ft) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 817 liters (28.85 cu ft) when folded down.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 II (Phase I, 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (156 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FV EP6DT, EP6CDT |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 817 l (28.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4253 mm (167.44 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2043 mm (80.43 in.) |
| Height | 1457 mm (57.36 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Front overhang | 863 mm (33.98 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 770 mm (30.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent suspension, longitudinal arms with transverse torsion shafts |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 95/65 R15H; 205/55 R16V; 25/45 R17V; 25/40 R18W |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16; 17; 18 |
