The Peugeot 308 I (Phase II, 2011) 1.6 16V VTi (120 Hp) Automatic is a compact hatchback produced by the French automaker Peugeot between 2011 and 2013. This iteration represents a mid-life refresh of the first-generation 308, introduced in 2007. Positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, the 308 aimed to provide a blend of style, practicality, and efficiency in the European C-segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 was a significant model for Peugeot, representing their attempt to move upmarket and offer a more refined driving experience.
Peugeot 308 I (Phase II): Overview and Market Position
The first generation Peugeot 308 was designed to replace both the 307 and the 206, consolidating Peugeot’s offerings in the compact and small family car segments. The Phase II update, released in 2011, brought styling revisions, improved interior materials, and updated engine options. The 1.6 16V VTi engine, paired with an automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy. The 308’s success in Europe stemmed from its attractive design, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price point. It was often praised for its build quality and handling characteristics, making it a compelling alternative to established rivals.
Engine & Performance
The 2011 Peugeot 308 1.6 16V VTi Automatic is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 13 seconds and a maximum speed of 188 km/h (116.82 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.9 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 8.2 kg/Nm. Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 6.9 to 7.2 liters per 100 kilometers (34.1 to 32.7 US mpg) in combined driving, with CO2 emissions between 159 and 166 g/km.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 I (Phase II) is a five-door hatchback with a practical and stylish design. The Phase II update included a revised front grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the car a more modern appearance. Inside, the cabin features seating for five passengers and offers a reasonable amount of space for both passengers and luggage. The trunk (boot) space ranges from 348 liters (12.29 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1201 liters (42.41 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, common for vehicles of this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags. The car’s dimensions are 4276 mm (168.35 in.) in length, 1815 mm (71.46 in.) in width, and 1498 mm (58.98 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2608 mm (102.68 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 I (Phase II, 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V VTi (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5-10 l/100 km (24.8 – 23.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-5.5 l/100 km (43.6 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9-7.2 l/100 km (34.1 – 32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-166 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 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 | 5FS 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1307 kg (2881.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 528 kg (1164.04 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4276 mm (168.35 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1526-1536 mm (60.08 – 60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1521-1531 mm (59.88 – 60.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 926 mm (36.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 742 mm (29.21 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 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 |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
