The Peugeot 308 II, launched in 2013, represented a significant step forward for the French automaker, aiming to compete more effectively in the highly competitive European C-segment hatchback market. This second generation of the 308, designated Phase I for the 2013-2014 model year, was designed with a focus on weight reduction, improved fuel efficiency, and a more refined driving experience. The 1.6 THP (Turbo High Pressure) 125 horsepower variant was a popular choice, offering a balance of performance and economy for European buyers. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 II was a key model for Peugeot, showcasing their advancements in automotive engineering and design.
Peugeot 308 II (Phase I, 2013) 1.6 THP: Overview
The 308 II marked a departure from its predecessor, adopting Peugeot’s new ‘Blue Lion’ design language and a new platform (EMP1) that contributed to a substantial weight reduction. This lighter chassis, combined with the efficient 1.6 THP engine, resulted in improved handling and lower fuel consumption. The Phase I models, produced from 2013 to 2014, established the foundation for subsequent updates and variations within the 308 II range. The vehicle was primarily targeted at buyers seeking a practical, comfortable, and stylish hatchback with a focus on everyday usability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 308 II 1.6 THP is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, equipped with direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler. This configuration allows the engine to produce 125 horsepower (Hp) at 6000 rpm and 200 Newton-meters (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1400 rpm. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 78.2 Hp/l, demonstrating its efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.9 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.5 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 202 km/h (125.52 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l). CO2 emissions are rated at 129 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 II Phase I is a five-door hatchback with a sleek and modern design. The exterior styling features a prominent front grille, sculpted headlights, and a sloping roofline. Inside, the cabin is designed with a driver-focused layout, featuring a compact steering wheel and a user-friendly infotainment system. The interior prioritizes ergonomics and practicality. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The 308 II offers a comfortable ride and a relatively spacious interior for its class. Trunk space is a practical 420 liters (14.83 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 817 liters (28.85 cu. ft.) when folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4253 mm (167.44 in.) in length, 1804 mm (71.02 in.) in width, and 1457 mm (57.36 in.) in height. The kerb weight is 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs), contributing to its agile handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 II (Phase I, 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1400 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FA EP6CDT |
| 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 | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 817 l (28.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4253 mm (167.44 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2043 mm (80.43 in.) |
| Height | 1457 mm (57.36 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Front overhang | 863 mm (33.98 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 770 mm (30.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent suspension, longitudinal arms with transverse torsion shafts |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16V; 225/45 R17V; 225/40 R18W |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |

