The Peugeot 308 III, launched in 2021 (Phase I), represents the third generation of Peugeot’s popular compact hatchback. Positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, the 308 aims to deliver a blend of style, technology, and efficiency. This iteration marked a significant departure from its predecessors, featuring a redesigned exterior, a completely revamped interior, and the introduction of plug-in hybrid options alongside traditional internal combustion engines. The 1.2 PureTech 110 Hp variant, detailed here, served as a key entry point into the 308 range, offering a balance of performance and fuel economy for the European market.
Peugeot 308 III (Phase I): A Detailed Overview
The third-generation 308 was a crucial model for Peugeot, embodying the brand’s evolving design language and commitment to technological advancement. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 is a high-volume seller in Europe, known for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and competitive pricing. The Phase I models, produced from September 2021 to June 2022, established the foundation for the 308 III lineup, setting the stage for subsequent updates and powertrain additions.
Engine & Performance
The 1.2 PureTech engine is a three-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine that forms the heart of this 308 variant. Producing 110 horsepower (Hp) at 5500 rpm and 205 Newton-meters (151.2 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm, it provides adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine’s direct injection system and turbocharger contribute to its efficiency and responsiveness. With a power-to-litre ratio of 91.7 Hp/l, the engine demonstrates a good balance between displacement and output. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. The weight-to-power ratio of 11.4 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6.1 kg/Nm indicate a reasonably efficient powertrain. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further enhances fuel economy, and a particulate filter helps to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6.3 standards.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 III adopts a sleek, modern hatchback body style, characterized by sharp lines, a distinctive front grille, and LED lighting. The Phase I models feature a minimalist interior design, dominated by Peugeot’s i-Cockpit, which consists of a compact steering wheel and a raised instrument cluster. This design aims to provide a more engaging driving experience. The 308 III offers seating for five passengers and provides 412 liters (14.55 cu. ft.) of trunk space, expandable to 1323 liters (46.72 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electric power steering. The vehicle’s aerodynamic profile, evidenced by a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.28, contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The 308 III prioritizes a comfortable and refined driving experience, with a focus on interior quality and technology.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 III (Phase I, 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| End of production | June, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6.3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 1750 rpm / 151.2 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HNP EB2ADT |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 / 73.17 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm / 2.95 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm / 3.56 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l / 3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1254 kg / 2764.6 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 412 l / 14.55 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1323 l / 46.72 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l / 13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4367 mm / 171.93 in. |
| Width | 1852 mm / 72.91 in. |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1859 mm / 73.19 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm / 81.18 in. |
| Height | 1444 mm / 56.85 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm / 105.31 in. |
| Front track | 1559 mm / 61.38 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1553 mm / 61.14 in. |
| Front overhang | 904 mm / 35.59 in. |
| Rear overhang | 788 mm / 31.02 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm / 5.51 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.51 m / 34.48 ft |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
