Updated Peugeot 308: New Design and Technologies
Peugeot has introduced an updated version of the 308 model, which has received significant design changes and expanded powertrain options. Despite the popularity of SUVs, hatchbacks and station wagons remain relevant, especially in the European market.
Exterior and Aerodynamics
The current generation Peugeot 308 debuted in 2021 and has now received a facelift. The key change was the new front end: separate headlights with LED elements instead of the characteristic “fangs”. The upper section of the headlights contains LED claws, while the main beams are hidden in the glossy black areas of the bumper.
Peugeot designers chose light elements above the body-colored radiator grille instead of a full-width LED strip.
The base Allure trim has fully LED lighting, while the GT and GT Premium get matrix LED technology with sequential turn indicators. Also, for the first time in Peugeot’s history, an illuminated logo has appeared, which will likely be used on all future models.
New openings in the bumper improve aerodynamics by directing airflow to the wheel arches. The car’s profile has remained almost unchanged, but new 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels have been added, as well as new colors: Lagoa Blue for the hatchback and Ingaro Blue for the station wagon. The rear has also been updated: chrome inserts have been removed, and the rear lights now feature LED claws on all trims.
Interior and Comfort
The Peugeot 308’s interior did not receive the latest digital dashboard found in the 3008 and 5008 models, but its own version of the i-Cockpit with a 10-inch display looks modern. Updates include new 3D graphics for the digital instruments and Alcantara in the GT and GT Premium trims.
Options include a 10-speaker Focal Premium Hi-fi audio system, eight-color ambient lighting, and massage seats. The multimedia system supports over-the-air updates.
Peugeot claims to use 31% recycled and renewable materials for the production of the updated 308, weighing 405 kg per car.
Station Wagon Practicality
The Peugeot 308 SW (station wagon) has also been updated, retaining the longer body and large luggage compartment. The model can carry from 598 to 1487 liters of cargo depending on the seat configuration. The rear seat row has a 40:20:40 split, and an electric tailgate is also available.
Platform and Future
The Peugeot 308 is built on the EMP2 platform, which it shares with the Opel Astra and DS N°4. The next generation will likely transition to the STLA Medium architecture, already used in Stellantis compact SUVs.
Powertrains: From Diesel to Electric
The Peugeot 308 engine lineup includes:
Peugeot has not announced a sporty version like a GTI, although it recently introduced the all-electric E-208 GTI.
Availability and Competitors
The updated Peugeot 308 will be available in Europe and the UK from this autumn. Prices will be announced later. The car will continue to be produced at the plant in Mulhouse, France.
The model’s competitors include: Volkswagen Golf, Opel Astra, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, as well as premium offerings such as the DS N°4, Audi A3, BMW 1-Series, and Mercedes A-Class.
The update of the Peugeot 308 demonstrates that the brand continues to invest in traditional segments, combining style, technology, and environmental friendliness. The expanded powertrain lineup, especially the electric and hybrid variants, reflects the pan-European trend of reducing emissions and increasing efficiency. The retention of the station wagon in the lineup also indicates the importance of practicality for European buyers, even in the era of SUV dominance.