New Peugeot 308 Will Make World Premiere in Geneva

As part of its big Geneva offensive this year, Peugeot has announced that the new 308 model will make its global debut there. Arriving in European dealerships this May, the facelifted version comes after the car has been in production three and a half years. In that period of time, the French manufacturer has sold over 900,000 units in more than 100 countries. The new 308 incorporates the marque’s new stylistic ideals, with all three body shapes, Hatchback, SW and Coupe Cabriolet, adopting a more sophisticated elegance. While the new 308 retains the dynamic characteristics and interior space for which it has been known since its launch, it now also sets new standards in terms of environmental efficiency. Factors that have contributed to overall fuel savings include a weight reduction of 25 kg, tires with ultra-low rolling resistance, redesigned aerodynamics and optimized engines, four petrol models from 99 to 203 hp and four HDi engines from 93 to 165 hp. Its 1.6-liter HDi FAP 113 hp Euro 5 engine, equipped with innovative e-HDi Stop&Start technology, setts a new record in this segment, only emitting 98 grams of CO2 per kilometer. The new 308 will be made available in four trim levels, Access, SR, Active and Allure. Standard equipment, depending on the version, includes air conditioning, ESP, ABS, EBFD, EBA, front and rear electric windows with child security, remote control central door locking with deadlocks and six SMART safety airbags. autoevolution will be attending the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.