The Peugeot 308 I (Phase I) is a small family car produced by the French manufacturer Peugeot from 2007 to 2010. Representing the first generation of the 308 model, it succeeded the Peugeot 307, offering a more refined and modern package. Initially launched as a three-door hatchback, it was later joined by a five-door variant and a station wagon (SW) body style. The 308 aimed to compete in the highly competitive European C-segment, challenging vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel/Vauxhall Astra. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 was a significant model for Peugeot in Europe, known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and relatively efficient engines.
Peugeot 308 I (Phase I): Overview and Market Position
The 308 Phase I marked a departure for Peugeot, emphasizing quality and a more sophisticated driving experience compared to its predecessor. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical, yet stylish and comfortable vehicle. The three-door hatchback version, like the 1.4 16V VTi model detailed here, catered to a younger demographic or those prioritizing a sportier aesthetic. The 308’s success was built on a platform that offered a good balance between handling, fuel economy, and interior space. It was a key player in Peugeot’s lineup, contributing to the brand’s overall sales and reputation in the European market.
Engine & Performance
The 1.4 16V VTi engine powering this variant of the Peugeot 308 I is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder petrol (gasoline) engine. Displacing 1397 cc (85.25 cubic inches), it produces a maximum power output of 95 horsepower (Hp) at 6000 rpm, equating to 68 horsepower per liter. Torque is rated at 136 Newton-meters (100.31 lb.-ft.) at 4000 rpm. This engine is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.7 seconds, and a top speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph). While not exceptionally powerful, the engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving, prioritizing fuel efficiency. Fuel economy is rated at 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers (36.2 US mpg) combined, with 9.0 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) in urban conditions and 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 I Phase I features a distinctive hatchback body style, with the three-door configuration offering a more coupe-like profile. The design language of the time incorporated Peugeot’s signature styling cues, including a prominent front grille and sculpted body lines. The interior was designed with practicality and comfort in mind, offering seating for five passengers. Key features included a standard anti-lock braking system (ABS), hydraulic power steering, and a relatively spacious trunk (boot) with a minimum capacity of 348 liters (12.29 cubic feet), expandable to 1201 liters (42.41 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1337 kg (2947.58 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs). The suspension utilizes a wishbone setup at the front and a trailing arm configuration at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Tire sizes range from 195/65R15 to 205/55R16, mounted on 6.5Jx15 or 7Jx16 wheels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 I (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 16V VTi (95 Hp) 3d |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.1 kg/Hp, 71.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.8 kg/Nm, 101.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68 Hp/l |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 4000 rpm (100.31 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 8FS EP3 |
| Engine displacement | 1397 cm3 (85.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1337 kg (2947.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 443 kg (976.65 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) |
| Length | 4276 mm (168.35 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1526 mm (60.08 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65R15 91T; 205/55R16 91T |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5Jx15; 7Jx16 |
