The Peugeot 308 III, launched in 2021 (Phase I), represents the third generation of Peugeot’s popular compact hatchback. Positioned as a direct competitor to vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, the 308 aims to deliver a blend of stylish design, modern technology, and efficient performance. This iteration marked a significant departure from its predecessors, featuring a completely redesigned interior and exterior, and a focus on incorporating advanced driver-assistance systems. The 1.2 PureTech 130 Hp variant, detailed here, was a key engine option in many European markets, offering a balance between fuel economy and adequate power for everyday driving.
Peugeot 308 III (Phase I): A Detailed Overview
The third-generation 308 signaled Peugeot’s commitment to a more premium feel within the compact segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 is a high-volume seller in Europe, known for its distinctive styling and comfortable ride. The Phase I models, produced from September 2021 to November 2024, established the foundation for the 308 III range, with subsequent updates and powertrain additions following in later years. The 1.2 PureTech engine, a mainstay of the Peugeot-Citroën-DS Automobiles (PSA) group, provides a relatively lightweight and efficient powerplant for the hatchback.
Engine & Performance
The 308 III 1.2 PureTech (130 Hp) is powered by the HNS EB2DTS engine, a 1.2-liter inline-3 cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. This engine produces 130 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The power-to-weight ratio is a respectable 9.7 kg/Hp, translating to 103.3 Hp per tonne. The engine’s relatively small displacement, combined with turbocharging, allows for good fuel economy without sacrificing significant performance. The engine features a compression ratio of 10.5:1 and utilizes a DOHC valvetrain with 4 valves per cylinder. It’s paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further enhances fuel efficiency, and a particulate filter helps to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6.3 standards.
Design & Features
The 308 III adopts a sleek, modern hatchback body style with five doors and seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by sharp lines, a prominent grille, and distinctive LED lighting signatures. The interior represents a significant upgrade over previous generations, featuring a minimalist dashboard layout dominated by a central touchscreen infotainment system. Key features include a digital instrument cluster (i-Cockpit), advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The 308 prioritizes practicality with a trunk (boot) space ranging from 412 liters (14.55 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1323 liters (46.72 cu. ft.) with them folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4367 mm (171.93 in.) in length, 1852 mm (72.91 in.) in width, and 1444 mm (56.85 in.) in height. A drag coefficient of 0.28 contributes to improved aerodynamic efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 III (Phase I, 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| End of production | November, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6.3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HNS EB2DTS |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1258 kg (2773.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 412 l (14.55 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1323 l (46.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4367 mm (171.93 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1859 mm (73.19 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Front overhang | 904 mm (35.59 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 788 mm (31.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.51 m (34.48 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
