Latest tweaks sees Peugeot’s catalogue continue to be as strong as a lion

Without doubt, most observers would agree that Peugeot has one of the outstanding catalogues of cars in their range. From the delightful new 208 to the large 5008 SUV, the French brand has developed probably the best-looking model range on the road right now.

Now they have embarked on a new journey with some image changes that introduces a new badge and some clever additional features inside and out. The new emblem is more like a coat of arms and is instantly recognisable.

The first of these is the new Peugeot 308, a firm favourite over the years in the C-segment and a model that take the new image into the future.

At first glance there is an obvious size change to the range from what went before. In fact, they have increased the length and expanded the wheelbase. They have also raised the car up higher and this more than most gives the 308 a much more dominant kerbside stance.

My first drive in the new 308 on the banks of Lough Derg and the Shannon demonstrated once again how far Peugeot has come as a brand. The car is now close to being the most complete family-sized hatchback there is. Once you come to terms with its unique steering and the additional height, you will really feel at home on all grades of roads and surfaces.

Inside, Peugeot continue to offer their i-Cockpit, for which they are now renowned, with its flat-bottomed small steering wheel and their clever 3D dash display. While space in the interior is restricted, especially in the back, it is not shamed by any means and is comparable to other cars in the bracket.

The boot volume is now 412 litres with 28 litres of compartmentalised storage space, with the rear seats folded, the maximum load is 1,323 litres.

Peugeot are initially giving us a choice of petrol, diesel and two examples of Plug-in Hybrid powertrains. An all-electric edition is coming later. The car is available with a PureTech (Petrol) 1.2L, 130 bhp 3-cylinder with an 8-speed automatic gearbox or a BlueHdi (Diesel) 1.5L, 130 bhp 4-cylinder 8 speed automatic engine and CO2 emissions from 117 g/km.

The PHEV have 180 and 225 output with the motor in each case complimenting a 1.6 PureTech engine. Each offers up to 60km in electric mode.

You will notice from that lineup that all models in the new range come only with 8-speed automatic gearboxes. There will be no manual versions as Peugeot chiefs believe that the future will be automatics only.

With the first deliveries starting now, the 308 is initially available in 3 grades – Active, Allure and GT. Pricing starts at €31,765 for the basic Active, the Allure starts at €35,705 while the GT has an entry price of €39,215.

There is also an SW estate model that is quite distinctive and very attractive coming in 2023 costing an extra €1,000 extra across the range.