The Peugeot 308, launched in 2007, represented a significant step forward for the French automaker, replacing the aging 307. The first generation, known internally as the T7, aimed to offer a more refined and modern experience in the competitive compact family car segment. This article focuses on the Phase I version of the 308 I, specifically the 2.0 HDi 136 horsepower diesel model, a popular choice in European markets. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 offered a compelling package of fuel efficiency, practicality, and driving dynamics for buyers seeking a versatile hatchback.
Peugeot 308 I (Phase I): A European Compact
The Peugeot 308 Phase I, produced between 2007 and 2010, was designed to appeal to a broad audience. It was positioned as a direct competitor to vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Renault Mégane. The 2.0 HDi variant, equipped with a diesel particulate filter (FAP), was particularly favored in Europe due to stringent emissions regulations and the popularity of diesel engines. The 308 aimed to elevate Peugeot’s image, offering a more premium feel than its predecessor, and establishing a strong foothold in the crucial C-segment.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 308 2.0 HDi is a 1,997 cc (121.86 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated RHR DW10BTED4, produces 136 horsepower (Hp) at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 320 Newton-meters (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.1 seconds and a maximum speed of 206 km/h (128 mph). The engine’s high compression ratio of 17.6:1 is typical for diesel engines, maximizing combustion efficiency. The weight-to-power ratio of 11 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.7 kg/Nm demonstrate a reasonable balance between power and vehicle mass.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 Phase I is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its design, penned under the direction of Gilles Vidal, was a departure from the more rounded aesthetics of the 307, adopting a more angular and modern appearance. The interior was designed with a focus on ergonomics and perceived quality. Key features included a driver-focused dashboard layout, comfortable seating for five occupants, and a spacious cargo area. The trunk offers 348 liters (12.29 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,201 liters (42.41 cu. ft.) when folded down. Safety features, crucial for this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front ventilated disc brakes, with discs also used on the rear. The 308’s suspension utilizes a wishbone setup at the front and a trailing arm configuration at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling. Power steering is hydraulically assisted, offering a direct and responsive feel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 I (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (136 Hp) FAP 5d |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHR DW10BTED4 |
| 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 | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l (5.55 US qt | 4.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1496 kg (3298.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 409 kg (901.69 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; 225/45R17; 225/40R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5Jx15; 7Jx16; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
The Peugeot 308 Phase I 2.0 HDi 136 FAP offered a compelling blend of efficiency, practicality, and driving enjoyment, making it a popular choice for European drivers. While never officially available in the US market, it represents a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed compact hatchback that showcased Peugeot’s commitment to innovation and quality.
