The Peugeot 308 I (Phase II, 2011) 1.6 GTi THP represents a significant refinement of Peugeot’s compact hatchback, positioned within the competitive C-segment. Introduced as part of the first generation 308’s lifecycle update, the Phase II models, produced from 2011 to 2013, brought enhanced styling, improved interior quality, and, crucially, a more potent engine option in the form of the 1.6 GTi THP. While the 308 was not officially sold in the United States, it was a popular choice in Europe, offering a blend of practicality, style, and driving enjoyment. This particular variant, with its 200 horsepower engine, aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a more engaging and sporty experience.
Peugeot 308 I (Phase II) 1.6 GTi THP: An Overview
The 308, launched in 2007, succeeded the Peugeot 307 and aimed to elevate Peugeot’s standing in the compact car market. The Phase II update in 2011 focused on improving the car’s aesthetics and refining its mechanical components. The 1.6 GTi THP model was the performance flagship of the range, offering a noticeable step up in power and handling compared to the standard 308 variants. It competed with models like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST, offering a French alternative with a distinctive character.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 308 1.6 GTi THP is its 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated EP6CDTX. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is turbocharged with an intercooler, allowing it to produce 200 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 275 Nm (202.83 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1700 rpm. This translates to a power-to-liter ratio of 125.2 hp/l. The engine’s responsiveness and relatively low-end torque delivery contribute to a lively driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 7.7 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in a calculated 7.3 seconds. The car boasts a maximum speed of 237 km/h (147.26 mph). The engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, directing power to the front wheels. Fuel economy, according to NEDC testing, is rated at 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) combined, with 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg) in urban conditions and 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 159 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 I (Phase II) is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The Phase II facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including a revised front grille, headlights, and bumper. The interior received upgrades in material quality and design, aiming for a more premium feel. The GTi THP model featured sport seats, unique interior trim, and often included features like automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for responsive handling. The trunk offers 348 liters (12.29 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1201 liters (42.41 cu. ft.) when folded down. 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, with a wheelbase of 2608 mm (102.68 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 I (Phase II, 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GTi THP (200 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 237 km/h (147.26 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 1700 rpm (202.83 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EP6CDTX |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1399 kg (3084.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 451 kg (994.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 348 l (12.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 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.) |
| 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 mm (60.08 in.) |
| Rear track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Front overhang | 926 mm (36.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 742 mm (29.21 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
The Peugeot 308 I (Phase II) 1.6 GTi THP offered a compelling package for European drivers seeking a stylish, practical, and enjoyable compact hatchback. While never officially available in the US market, it represents a noteworthy example of Peugeot’s engineering and design capabilities.
