Peugeot Announces UK Pricing for the New 308 SW

Peugeot’s chic compact-sized 308 Station Wagon will arrive on UK shores this June with prices starting from £14,395. It will be available in four trim levels S, SR, Sport and SE and eight engine options, five petrol units (1.4 95Hp, 1.6 with 120, 140, 150 and 175 Hp) and three HDi diesel engines (1.6 with 90 and 110 Hp and 2.0 136 Hp).

The S and SR versions will differ from the Sport and SE versions by the fitment of a steel roof panel and a folding split rear bench seat, instead of individual removable seats and a Cielo panoramic glass roof as found on the Sport and SE versions. –Detailed pricing after the jump

Model -On-the-road MRRP

S 1.4 VTi 95-£14,395

S 1.6 VTi 120-£14,995

S 1.6 VTi 120 Auto-£15,995

S HDi 90-£15,695

S HDi 110-£16,595

SR HDi 90-£16,345

SR HDi 110-£17,245

Sport 1.6 VTi 120-£16,395

Sport 1.6 VTi 120 Auto-£17,395

Sport THP 150-£17,495

Sport THP 140 Auto-£18,495

Sport THP 175-£18,645

Sport HDi 110-£17,995

Sport HDi 136-£18,645

Sport HDi 136 Auto-£19,645

SE HDi 110-£19,195

SE HDi 136-£19,845

SE HDi 136 Auto-£20,845

Euro NCAP: 5-Star Ratings For Peugeot 308 & Kia Cee’d

For first the time since Euro NCAP started testing the Korean automakers models in 2003, a Kia, the Cee’d, managed to achieve a 5-star rating in adult occupant protection with an overall score of 34 points. Peugeot’s on the other hand continued its strike of 5-star rating models (1007, 207 & 407) with the new 308 hatch. In the child protection tests both models were awarded with 4 out 5 stars while in pedestrian protection, the Cee’d got a mediocre 2-star rating (out of 4) and the Peugeot a 3 star rating. -Continued after the jump

EURO NCAP KIA CEE’D

Front impact
The passenger compartment remained stable during the impact. Structures in the dashboard presented a risk of injury to the knees and femurs of the driver and the passenger. The clutch pedal moved rearward more than 100mm, but there was no rupture of the footwell.

Side impact
The Cee'd scored maximum points in the side impact and pole tests

Child-protection
The car scored maximum points for the dynamic performance of the 3 year old dummy in the frontal and side impacts. The front passenger's airbag can be disabled, allowing a rearward facing child restraint to be used in that seating position. However, information provided to the driver about the status of the airbag is not sufficiently clear. The label warning of the dangers of using a rearward facing child restraint in the passenger's seat without first disabling the airbag was not clear and was not permanently visible. The presence of ISOFIX anchorages in the rear outboard seats was not clearly marked.

Pedestrian protection
The bumper scored no points for the protection offered to pedestrians' legs. Protection of adults' heads was also rated as predominantly poor.

EURO NCAP PEUGEOT 308

Front impact
The passenger compartment remained stable during the impact. The driver's knees were well protected by an airbag mounted in the lower dashboard. Peugeot showed that the airbag would also protect occupants who were larger or smaller than the dummy used in the test, and those sat in different seating positions. The passenger was well restrained and his knees did not get close to the dashboard.

Side impact
The 308 scored maximum points in the side impact and pole tests.

Child-protection
The passenger airbag can be disabled to allow a rearward facing child restraint to be used in that seating position. However, information provided to the driver regarding the status of the airbag is not clear. The presence of ISOFIX anchorages in the front passenger seat and the rear outboard seats was not clearly marked.

Pedestrian protection
The bumper scored maximum points for its protection of pedestrians' legs. Also, the protection offered by the bonnet to the head of a struck child was predominantly fair. However, protection of adults' heads was mostly poor.

Peugeot 308 Hybrid HDi: Frankfurt Debut, Production Launch In 2010

Peugeot will host the worldwide debut of the new 308 Hybrid HDi concept at the Frankfurt Show. The prototype is equipped PSA Peugeot-Citroen’s parallel hybrid powerplant which consist of a 110 bhp 1.6L HDi DPFS diesel engine coupled with a 22 bhp electric motor providing a maximum power output of 132 bhp. Power is transferred to the front-wheels via a 6-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox

The French carmaker announces that fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 83 UK mpg (69.0 US mpg or 3,4l/100 km) and 90g/km of CO2. Comparatively, the 308 with the 2.0L HDi DPFS 136 bhp diesel engine has an avg. consumption of 51 UK mpg (42.5 US mpg or 5.5l/100 km) while it emits 90g/km of CO2. Peugeot plans to present a production version of the 308 Hybrid HDi in 2010. -Press release & image gallery after the jump

THE PEUGEOT 308 HYBRID – THE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY CAR FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

• World Premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show
• Powered by an HDi diesel hybrid power train
• Emits only 90g/km of CO₂
• 83 mpg in the combined cycle
• To be launched in 2010

At the Frankfurt Motor Show Peugeot will showcase its new 308 Hybrid HDi, which emits just 90g/km of CO2 and reduces fuel consumption by 58% in the Urban Drive Cycle compared to a standard 308 HDi.

In its pearlescent white and green colour scheme, two colours chosen as symbols of purity and ecology, the 308 Hybrid HDi demonstrator is the eagerly anticipated star of the environmental section of Peugeot’s stand at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.

This new 308 Hybrid HDi demonstrator represents another step on the path towards the planned commercialisation of the technology in 2010. Further evaluation of the original Peugeot 307 Hybrid HDi demonstrator in 2006 has confirmed the choice of a diesel engine, instead of a petrol engine, as the best option to provide the best reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.

The demonstrator is powered by Peugeot’s most efficient parallel hybrid powerplant to date, combined with a 6-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox. It has a 110 bhp 1.6 HDi DPFS diesel engine coupled with a 22 bhp electric motor providing a maximum power output of 132 bhp, comparable to that of the 308 with the 2.0 litre HDi DPFS 136 bhp diesel engine. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 83 mpg and 90g/km of CO2 or a reduction of 38% compared to an equivalent 308 diesel HDi model.

In addition, the engine has been designed to meet the future Euro V directive which comes into force in 2009 and offers the possibility of driving exclusively in electric or “ZEV” (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode for journeys in regulated urban centres.

The excellent aerodynamic performance of the 308 hatchback and the use of Michelin’s new Energy Saver tyres, which reduce rolling resistance, help to enhance further its performance.

A step towards commercialisation

Compared to the previous 307 Hybrid HDi demonstrator presented in 2006, the focus of the development has now switched to concentrating on the packaging of the hybrid technology into the structure of the new 308, and to ensure its compatibility with the future Euro V emission standards.

To ensure a competitive purchase price, priority has been given to using as many components as possible from current Peugeot vehicles. This has enabled the number of specific parts associated with the hybridisation of the 308 to be reduced by around 30% compared to the previous 307 Hybrid HDi demonstrator.

A simple, automatic technology

The vehicle is started by a customary ignition key but, unlike a conventional vehicle, this does not start the diesel engine. Instead by pressing the accelerator pedal with the gearbox in automatic mode, the electric motor powers the vehicle. The diesel engine only operates when required and is controlled by a stop and start system. All the powertrain operating modes are controlled by a Power Train Management Unit (PTMU) according to the driver’s requirements.

The driver is informed in real time of the powertrain operating mode by a schematic diagram on the vehicle’s colour multifunction display. Other information is also available, such as the battery charge status or the power train operation mode.

Well equipped and without compromise

The comprehensively equipped demonstrator has all the standard equipment of a Premium Pack 308 and also includes a panoramic glass roof and the RT4 multi-media system with a retractable colour display screen. The level of standard equipment, interior space, interior brightness, dynamic qualities and driveability are no different to those of the standard 308.

General dynamic performance is also comparable to a standard 308 HDi. In-gear acceleration, however, both in town and on the open road, is improved with the Hybrid HDi. Indeed, during in-gear acceleration, the diesel engine is backed up by the electric motor which is able on demand to deliver a power boost of up to 31 bhp (and 96 lb ft of torque).

Optimised Hybrid HDi technology

The parallel hybrid power train consists of a 1.6 litre HDi DPFS 110 bhp diesel engine and an electric motor with a continuous output of 22 bhp and a torque of 59 lb ft. The Power Train Management Unit (PTMU) selects the right distribution of power from both units to meet the requirements of the driver and minimise fuel consumption.

The electric motor alone is responsible for starting and driving at low speed, while only the diesel engine is used on open roads and motorways, with both units coming into play simultaneously to provide quicker acceleration. The system is fitted with a 6-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox able to operate in automatic or manual sequential mode.

To extend the battery range, kinetic energy recovered during phases of deceleration and braking is used to recharge the batteries. A special button provides access to an all-electric “ZEV” Zero Emission Vehicle mode. Operation of the diesel engine is then restricted to more pronounced acceleration phases or high speed driving. This "ZEV" mode provides total absence of exhaust emissions and noise pollution.

Technical description of main specific components

The electric motor is of the synchronous type with permanent magnets, developing a continuous power of 22 bhp and a torque of 59 lb ft. However, intermittently its output can attain 31 bhp and 96 lb ft.

An inverter regulates the 150 to 260 volt current from the high voltage battery pack supplying the electric motor in accordance with the torque requirements determined by the Power Train Management Unit (PTMU).

A new generation battery pack has been developed which delivers an output of 200 volts. It is housed in the spare wheel well and does not, therefore, reduce the available boot volume. The batteries are of the Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) type.

A converter converts the 200 V from the battery pack into 12 V to supply the vehicle equipment in phases of solely electrical operation.

Managed braking maximises the recharging of the batteries during phases of deceleration and braking. An Intelligent control of the braking optimises the distribution between regenerative electric braking and traditional dissipative hydraulic braking. The braking management system gives priority to braking efficiency over the recovery of energy.

Main technical characteristics

308 Hybrid HDi Reference 308 HDi

Diesel engine 1.6 litre HDi DPFS 2.0 litre HDi DPFS

Power (bhp) @ rpm 110 @ 4000 136 @ 4000

Torque (lb ft) @ rpm 180 – 195* @ 1750 240 – 260* @ 2000

Electric motor Synchronous with permanent magnets -

Continuous power (bhp) 22 -

Torque (lb ft) 59 -

Temporary maximum 31 bhp and torque of 96 lb ft -

Gearbox 6-speed electronically controlled manual 6 speed manual

Emissions Euro 5 Euro 4

Kerb weights (kg) 1460 1426

"Hybridisation" only (kg) 110 -

Fuel tank capacity (litres) 60 60

Battery range (km) 3 -

Fuel consumption (MVEG / CEE)

Combined drive cycle (mpg) 83 51

CO2 g/ km 90 146

Urban drive cycle (mpg) 94 39

CO2 g/ km 80 191

Performance (½ payload)

0 - 1000m standing start 33.0 32.5

0 to 62 mph: 12.2 11.0

In gear acceleration (seconds)

19 - 38 mph: 3.0 (automatic mode) 4.9 (in 3rd)

50 -75 mph: 7.4 (automatic mode) 9.5 (in 5th)

Specific components

Brakes : Controlled braking system: Management of conventional hydraulic system and regenerative braking by electric motor.

Inverter : Operating voltage range: 150 to 260 volts; liquid cooled.

High voltage battery : Type: nickel-metal hydride. 200 volt high voltage & capacity: 5.5 Ah.

Converter : Conversion of 200V to 12V to supply equipment in electric mode.

PTMU : A power train supervisor responsible for energy management and optimal fuel consumption.

Frankfurt Show: Peugeot 308 SW Prologue

Even though Peugeot will present the 308 SW Prologue as a prototype at the Frankfurt Show, take away the fancy, bi-color leather seats along with a couple more features and you’re basically looking at the all-new 308 SW that will go on sale in Europe in the beginning of 2008. Peugeot did the same thing two years ago with the 407 Coupe Prologue prototype which was nothing more than a slightly covered up version of the production model that followed shortly after.

We don’t have all the details in our hands yet, but expect the 308 SW to be offered with the same 120 Hp 1.6-litre VTI and 150 Hp 1.6-litre Turbo petrol engines and 110 Hp 1.6-liter HDi and 136 Hp 2.0-litre HDi diesel units found in the new 308 hatch. Before we let you go to see the rest of the images, we would like draw your attention to the fact that the 308 SW Prologue verifies a set of pictures we showed you back in July, previewing both the 308 SW and Coupe-Cabriolet model (see here). -Image gallery after the jump

Update: Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept Full Press Release & Image Gallery

As promised yesterday when we first revealed Peugeot’s proposition for an economic alternative to the Audi TT Coupe based on the new 308 hatch, the 308 RC Z Concept, we’re following up the story with the addition of the full media kit that includes the English press release along with more than two dozens of high resolution images. -Click “Read More…” below to see both

THE PEUGEOT 308 RC Z – TAKES PEUGEOT STYLE TO A NEW LEVEL

• World Premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show
• Powered by a 218 bhp turbocharged THP petrol engine
• A versatile 2+2 Coupé
• Emits only 160g/km of CO₂

With the world launch of The Peugeot 308 at the Frankfurt Motor Show another 308 concept will also be showcased – The Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept Car.

The 308 RC Z Concept Car is a 2+2 Coupé with true versatility and at the same time a style that is modern, original and well-balanced. A lot of attention has been paid to the design to ensure it is as light as possible with the use of aluminium and carbon fibre for many of the components.

With a length of 4.276 m (the same as the hatchback), a width of 1.840 m (25 mm more than the hatchback) and a height of only 1.320 m, the streamlined design ensures both improved performance and reduced fuel consumption, helping further to protect the environment thanks to reduced CO₂ emissions.

Exterior styling

The stylish design at the front is taken directly from the 308 but has been given a sharper and sportier lower panel incorporating the single air intake, chrome front grille and integral front fog lights.

The “feline” like front headlamps which extend along the line of the bonnet contain four cylindrical lights, clearly visible through the clear lenses, each of which create a bright and piercing beam of light to ensure safe night time driving.

The curved shape of the roof panel and rear window assists the airflow over the rear of the vehicle, creating sufficient rear down force to eliminate the need for a rear spoiler, thereby preserving the purity of the vehicle design.

The two centrally mounted rear exhaust pipes are integrated into the wraparound rear bumper lower panel. To achieve this, the rear exhaust silencer has been located in a transverse position where it also serves as an aerodynamic diffuser, but still allows sufficient space for the storage of a spare wheel in the boot floor.

The rich metallic grey exterior body colour is created by a special process using finely milled metallic particles. This gives the impression that the vehicle has been formed from a single block of metal, enhancing further the purity of the overall design.

The interior

The fascia panel has been taken directly from the 308 hatchback. The entire fascia panel is trimmed in leather, while the use of chrome, aluminium and black lacquer detailing creates a sporty, upmarket impression. With this in mind, a Bell&Ross® clock has been placed in the centre of the fascia panel, between the two central air vents, its typography perfectly matching that of the instrument panel.

Another sign of the vehicle’s exclusive nature is the bucket type front seats with polished aluminium eyelet detailing, the style of which is also reflected in the design of the inner door panels. The ergonomically designed driver’s seat ensures the driver is always firmly in control of the vehicle.

At the rear there are two occasional folding leather seats. The vehicle therefore offers real modularity and great versatility. For example, enough space can be created behind the front seats to house a set of golf clubs. Similarly, the length and maximum available boot volume can even accommodate a mountain bike!

The engine

The 308 RC Z is powered by a 1.6 litre THP turbo-charged petrol engine developed from the EP6DTS engine normally found under the bonnet of the 207 GTi, but now with a maximum power output of 218 bhp.

It is characterised by incredible responsiveness, thanks to the maximum torque output of 280 Nm produced from very low engine speeds. This can also temporarily be increased to 300 Nm due to the over boost function.

The engine is coupled with an entirely new 6 speed manual gearbox

Suspension

The front suspension uses many aluminium components to help reduce weight and ensure exceptional road holding, excellent steering accuracy and great feedback, intensifying the overall driving sensation.

The rear suspension, developed from the hatchback, consists of a torsion-beam, two rear suspension arms and an integral anti-roll bar. It has been specially modified to take account of the wider vehicle track and tyres. Indeed the front and rear tracks have been increased by 59 mm compared to the hatchback.

Braking relies on large (360 mm) diameter ventilated discs at the front with four piston callipers. Polished split rim 19’’ alloy wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 245/40 R19 tyres.

Safety

While the exceptional road holding of the 308 RC Z forms the basis of its primary safety, it is supplemented by safety equipment borrowed from the 308 hatchback such as the Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and the directional bi-xenon headlamps. Similarly, in terms of secondary safety, the 308 RC Z uses the same impact protection structures designed to deform in a controlled manner, maximising the absorption of impact forces.

Like all concept cars, the 308 RC Z is an amazing test bed of ideas making it possible to design and test new concepts, technology and styling ideas free from the constraints of volume production.

Peugeot 308 RC Z: 2+2 Coupe Concept Previews Audi TT Alternative

Alongside the all-new 308 compact hatch, Peugeot will also debut the 308 RC Z Concept at the upcoming Frankfurt Show. Deemed to be of one the show’s most intriguing premiers, the 308 RC Z previews a compact size 2+2 coupe based on the 308 hatch that will quite possibly go into production as a cheaper alternative to the Audi TT Coupe. Design-wise, the 308 RC Z actually reminds us more of the early 90's Audi Avus Concept with its bulgy wheel arches and the forward-cabin design. In all, we like it a lot, as what the 308 RC Z’s exterior design lacks in elegance it more than compensates with its aggressive stance. Inside, the RC Z features a production ready fascia derived from the 308 hatch with minor differentiations like the clock in the place of the center vent and the higher, lower part of the center console. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below (high-res image gallery & specs included)

Unfortunately Peugeot has yet to release an English press release on the 308 RC Z, but we managed to get our hands on the German version which also includes detailed information on the French coupe’s specs. Sharing the same wheelbase as the 308 hatch, the 308 RC Z is 4.3 m long and just 1.32 m high. Thanks to the extensive use of aluminum and carbofibre bodyparts along with the back window made of polycarbonate, the 308 RC Z weighs in at just 1.200 kg (2.650 lbs). The 308 RC Z is equipped with a revised version of the PSA – BMW Group co-developed, twin-turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol unit that produces 218Hp.

Matted to a 6speed manual gearbox the lightweight 308 RC Z sprints from standstill to 100 km/h (62mph) in 7,0 sec and from 0 to 1.000m (62,3 miles) in 27,0 sec with a maximum top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). According to Peugeot, the 308 RC Z features an avg. consumption of just 6,7lt per 100 km which translates to 35,1mpg.