The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase I), produced from 2010 to 2011, represents Peugeot’s entry into the competitive compact station wagon (estate) segment. As the practical, load-lugging variant of the popular 308 hatchback, the SW aimed to provide European families with a versatile and efficient vehicle. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 SW was a significant model in Europe, offering a compelling alternative to rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Variant. This particular iteration features a 2.0-liter HDi diesel engine paired with an automatic transmission, prioritizing fuel economy and comfortable long-distance cruising.
Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase I): Overview
The 308 SW, launched as part of the first generation (T7) 308 series, built upon the success of its predecessor, the 307. The “SW” designation signifies “Station Wagon,” highlighting its focus on practicality and cargo capacity. The Phase I models, produced between 2010 and 2011, represent the initial iteration of the SW, with subsequent phases introducing styling and technological updates. The vehicle was designed to appeal to buyers needing more space than a traditional hatchback could offer, without the size and expense of a larger MPV.
Engine & Performance
The 308 SW I (Phase I) 2.0 HDi is powered by the RHH DW10CTED4, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 163 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to optimize performance and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio is 10.1 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.8 kg/Nm. This engine is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth gear changes and enhancing the driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 9.8 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 202 km/h (125.52 mph). The engine’s 18:1 compression ratio contributes to its efficiency, while the inclusion of a particulate filter helps to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase I) is a five-door station wagon with seating for up to seven passengers, depending on the configuration. Its exterior design is characterized by a sleek profile, a sloping roofline, and a distinctive front grille. The SW’s extended rear section provides a generous cargo area, offering 570 liters (20.13 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up and expanding to 1736 liters (61.31 cu. ft.) when folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4500 mm (177.17 in.) in length, 1815 mm (71.46 in.) in width, and 1564 mm (61.57 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2708 mm (106.61 in.).
Inside, the 308 SW offers a comfortable and functional cabin. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, typical for the era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The SW’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a coil spring torsion beam arrangement at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 SW I (Phase I, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (163 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 174 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 2000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHH DW10CTED4 |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.05 l (8.51 US qt | 7.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1641 kg (3617.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2245 kg (4949.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 604 kg (1331.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 570 l (20.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1736 l (61.31 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 56 kg (123.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2708 mm (106.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1526-1536 mm (60.08 – 60.47 in.) |
| Rear track | 1521-1531 mm (59.88 – 60.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 926 mm (36.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 866 mm (34.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| 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 |
The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase I) 2.0 HDi Automatic offered a practical and efficient solution for families seeking a versatile vehicle. While not available in the US market, it remains a popular choice in Europe, known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient diesel engine.

