The Peugeot 308 I (Phase I) is a compact 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. The 308 was designed 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 provides a representative example of European compact car design and engineering of the late 2000s, emphasizing fuel efficiency, practicality, and a comfortable driving experience.
Peugeot 308 I (Phase I): Overview and Market Position
The Phase I 308, launched in 2007, marked a significant step forward for Peugeot in terms of build quality and interior design. It was available in both hatchback and station wagon (SW) body styles, catering to a wide range of customer needs. The 1.6 16V VTi model, equipped with a 120 horsepower engine, was a popular choice, offering a balance between performance and economy. In Europe, the 308 quickly gained recognition for its stylish exterior, well-appointed interior, and responsive handling. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical yet sophisticated vehicle for daily use.
Engine & Performance
The 1.6 16V VTi engine powering this variant of the Peugeot 308 is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. Displacing 1598 cubic centimeters (97.52 cubic inches), it produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Newton-meters (118.01 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.4 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 8.5 kg/Nm. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.8 seconds and a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph). The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers combined (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 I (Phase I) is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its exterior design is characterized by a sleek silhouette, a prominent front grille, and distinctive headlights. The interior is designed with a focus on ergonomics and comfort, featuring a driver-centric dashboard layout and supportive seats. Standard features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), power steering, and a range of safety equipment designed to meet Euro 4 emission standards. The trunk offers 348 liters of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1201 liters when folded down, providing ample cargo capacity for everyday needs. The suspension utilizes a wishbone setup at the front and a trailing arm configuration at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The steering employs a hydraulic rack and pinion system for precise control.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 I (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V VTi (120 Hp) 5d |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FW EP6 |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| 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 | 1362 kg (3002.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1802 kg (3972.73 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 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.) |
| Drive wheel | 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; 225/45R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5Jx15; 7Jx16; 7.5J x 17 |
