Having spent the past two years in something of a freefall, French motor manufacturer Peugeot has come back with a splash.
Their latest offering, the Peugeot 308, ticks all the right boxes.
The newcomer has achieved many motoring accolades, cumulating in being voted European Car of the Year while also boasting a staggering 240 000 unit sales worldwide.
Recently Peugeot South Africa extended an invitation to motoring journalists to test the Peugeot 308 and put it through its paces in the KZN Midlands. What a revelation the event proved to be. Exterior-wise, the 308 combines flowing lines with an aggressive stance, the design being bold and refined.
Sporting wide wheel arches, a lowered ground clearance and a streamlined silhouette, the new 308 receives its power from a very perky 1.2 litre direct injection three –cylinder turbo-petrol in various forms, the entry level Active model pushing out 81kW and 205 Nm and the GT Line 96kW/230Nm. Transmission is offered in five and six-speed ratios with slick gear changes being the order of the day. Out on the highway or twisty rural roads, the new 308 comes into its own, the combination of ultra light platform and a comfortable yet firm ride providing the driver with noticeable handling and manoeuvrability.
The small electric steering wheel and head-up instrument display allows access to information without taking one`s eyes off the road. Attractive 16 inch alloy wheels and six-speaker Touch Screen infotainment system complete with Bluetooth audio, as well as cruise control, aircon and Hill Start Assist are included in the retail price of R275 900 for the Pure Tech Active Model.
Moving upwards, the Peugeot 308 GT Line offers dual zone climate control, adjustable massaging front seats, automatic wipers and headlights and electronic handbrake. Also within specs are ABS and ESP stability control, while safety features include side and curtain airbags. Cosmetics feature 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, central emblem orientated grille and electronic fold-in gloss black side mirrors. Seats are upholstered in Leather/Alcantara and red stitching.
Price quoted on GT Line amounts to R329 900. Over many years French motor manufacturers have been inclined to over elaborate interior features, Peugeot have decided to simplify basic innovation, the new 308 range sporting a large multifunction screen at the top of the centre console permitting access to functions with ones fingertips, making for easier use.
Of importance is the fact that all new 308 models include a Full Maintenance 5-year/60 000km Premium Plan.
A full 10 colour range is on offer which envelops new shades of red, blue, silver and brown metallic, all adding to the appeal of the newcomer while showing-off bright chrome surround beadings.
In summary, the new Peugeot 308 is set for a bright sales future in South Africa with dealers being prepared to bring a new model to would-be-purchasers’ door for evaluation, the slogan being “We come to you”, So click on to www.wecometoyou.co.za and test drive one for yourself
