The second-generation Peugeot 308 was
first introduced in 2013, and competes against other models in its class like
the Volkswagen Golf, Renault Megane and Ford Focus. However, while those
competitors were given complete redesigns not too long ago, the French carmaker
has yet to reveal details of the next generation of the hatchback.
However, we’re now getting some
preliminary details about a new 308 in an interview by Automotive News Europe
with Peugeot CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato. According to Imparato, the 308 will to
use a revised version of PSA Group’s EMP2 platform, with electrification being
a major focus point from the get-go.
Previous reports pinned a
next-generation 308 to arrive in 2020, and it was said that performance
variants would utilise plug-in hybrid technology first previewed by the 308 R
HYbrid. The setup used for the working concept consists of a 1.6 litre THP
four-cylinder engine, a rear-mounted electric motor, a 3 kWh lithium-ion
battery and a six-speed automated manual gearbox.
With around 500 hp on tap, the 308 R
Hybrid was built to demonstrate Peugeot’s plug-in hybrid know-how, with a tamer
version of the system with a larger battery likely to be developed for regular
variants of the new 308.
