MOTORING NEWS

Peugeot 308 -so alluring

We tested the 1.2 Allure automatic derivative and boy, I enjoyed its take off. Sporty performance perhaps…

By the way this is the revised hatchback for the SA market having launched in 2015.

It offers awesome performance and it actually feels a little bit quicker claiming from 0 to 100 kph time (9.8 seconds).

The 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine under bonnet develops respectable outputs of 96 kW and 230 Nm of torque respectively. The engine is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission and performs relatively smoothly and unobtrusively.

City car yes, but it gains turbo lag when you go flat footed and rather quickly. Mostly enjoyed overtaking as we sped off from Jozi to Soweto clogging 0 to 100 kph -due to its Power: 96 kW
and Torque: 230 Nm.

The handling capacity is quite good from this French made. Riding on 16-inch alloy wheels, the 308 feels solidly planted on the road and does a great job of absorbing bumps and imperfections, resulting in a supple and comfortable ride. It’s one of the most pliantly riding products in its segment, which is quite an achievement.  

The small, well-weighted steering wheel undoubtedly heightens the Peugeot’s driving engagement and adds a measure of fun to the overall driving experience. Depending on your ideal seating and steering positions, the ‘wheel can, however, partially block your view of the instrument cluster, which can be annoying.

It boasts all kinds of features in the cabin and seats are well bolstered. 

Standout features include partial cloth/leather upholstery, front and rear park distance control, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, auto aircon (climate control) and electric folding mirrors.

But the only snag is the legroom. My take is, if you wanna travel in large crew don’t you dare ‘cos the loading bay is very limited as well.

For back and forth in the City, its ideal since safety specification have been beefed up and now includes systems such as Attention Alert, ABS with EBD, emergency brake assist, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and traction control, automatic drive-away locking and a total of 6 airbags.

The Peugeot 308 1.2T Allure automatic is sold with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

It is alluring after-all…

It retails for R369 900

Verdict

Performance 1-10 (5)

Fuel 1-10 (5)

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed Peugeot SA will experience management changes this year.

Image (The new Peugeot 308 hatchback).

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