The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase I), produced from 2008 to 2011, represents Peugeot’s entry into the competitive compact station wagon (estate) segment. As a practical and stylish vehicle, the 308 SW aimed to provide a versatile option for families and individuals needing increased cargo space without sacrificing driving dynamics. The “SW” designation, standing for “Station Wagon,” highlights its body style, differentiating it from the hatchback version of the 308. This particular variant, the Sport 1.6 HDi (109 Hp), was a popular choice in European markets, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. While not officially sold in the United States, the 308 SW was a significant model for Peugeot, contributing to its presence in the European automotive landscape.
Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase I): Overview
The first generation Peugeot 308 SW, launched in 2008, built upon the success of the 307 SW it replaced. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a family vehicle with a spacious interior and a large cargo area. The Phase I models, produced until 2011, featured a specific set of design elements and mechanical specifications. The Sport trim level, combined with the 1.6 HDi diesel engine, offered a compelling package for those prioritizing fuel economy and practicality. The 308 SW competed with other European station wagons like the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Variant, and Renault Mégane Estate.
Engine & Performance
The Peugeot 308 SW I Sport 1.6 HDi is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 9HZ DV6TED4. This engine produces 109 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1,750 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and torque output. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 69.9 hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 11.9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 13.7 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.2 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase I) features a classic station wagon body style with a five-door configuration and seating for five, with some models offering optional seven-seat configurations. Its exterior design incorporates Peugeot’s styling cues of the era, with a sloping roofline and a relatively long wheelbase. The Sport trim level typically included features such as alloy wheels, sporty interior trim, and enhanced exterior detailing. The interior prioritizes practicality and space, with a focus on providing comfortable seating and ample cargo capacity. The trunk (boot) space ranges from a minimum of 570 liters (20.13 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1736 liters (61.31 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and a robust body structure. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4500 mm (177.17 in), width 1815 mm (71.46 in), height 1564 mm (61.57 in), and wheelbase 2708 mm (106.61 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 SW I (Phase I, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | Sport 1.6 HDi (109 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3-6.8 l/100 km (37.3 – 34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4-4.4 l/100 km (58.8 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-5.3 l/100 km (48 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 130-139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1750 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HZ DV6TED4 |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 655 kg (1444.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 570 l (20.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1736 l (61.31 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%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2708 mm (106.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1526-1536 mm (60.08 – 60.47 in.) |
| Rear track | 1521-1531 mm (59.88 – 60.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 926 mm (36.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 866 mm (34.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual 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 |
