The Peugeot 308 CC I (Phase I), produced from 2010 to 2011, represents a compelling entry in the compact coupe-convertible segment. This model, specifically the 1.6 16V THP variant with an automatic transmission, offered a blend of French styling, practicality, and performance. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 CC was a popular choice in Europe, appealing to buyers seeking an affordable and stylish open-top driving experience. It served as Peugeot’s competitor to vehicles like the Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet and Ford Focus CC.
Peugeot 308 CC I: Overview and Market Position
The 308 CC is the convertible version of the Peugeot 308, a compact family car introduced in 2007. The “CC” designation stands for “Coupé-Cabriolet,” highlighting its retractable hardtop functionality. The Phase I model, launched in 2010, featured refinements to the original 308 design and powertrain options. The 1.6 THP engine, a turbocharged petrol (gasoline) engine, was a key selling point, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and respectable power. The car’s primary market was Europe, where demand for compact convertibles remained strong. It provided an alternative to larger, more expensive roadsters and grand tourers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 308 CC I (Phase I) 1.6 16V THP is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine equipped with direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler. This configuration allows the engine to produce 155 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1400 rpm. The engine’s specific output is 97 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 9.3 seconds. The car achieves a maximum speed of 212 km/h (131.73 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) combined, with 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) in urban driving and 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. The weight-to-power ratio of 9.9 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.4 kg/Nm contribute to a responsive driving experience.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 CC I (Phase I) is a two-door, four-seat coupe-cabriolet. Its defining feature is its retractable hardtop, which allows the car to transform from a closed coupe to an open-air convertible in approximately 20 seconds. The exterior design is characterized by Peugeot’s signature styling cues of the era, including a prominent front grille, sculpted headlights, and a sleek profile. Inside, the cabin offers a comfortable and functional environment, with seating for four adults, although rear seat space is somewhat limited. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial for a convertible, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The car’s trunk space varies depending on whether the roof is up or down, offering 226 liters (7.98 cu. ft.) with the roof up and 403 liters (14.23 cu. ft.) with the roof down. The car has a kerb weight of 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs) and a maximum weight of 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 CC I (Phase I, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V THP (155 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe – Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FV EP6CDT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| 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 capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 226 l (7.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 403 l (14.23 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4440 mm (174.8 in) |
| Width | 1872 mm (73.7 in) |
| Height | 1426 mm (56.14 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2605 mm (102.56 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
The Peugeot 308 CC I (Phase I) 1.6 16V THP Automatic offered a stylish and practical option for those seeking a compact convertible. While not a high-performance machine, its turbocharged engine provided adequate power for enjoyable driving, and its retractable hardtop offered added security and weather protection. Its success in the European market demonstrated Peugeot’s ability to create appealing and well-rounded vehicles within the competitive compact car segment.
