Peugeot’s new “308 GT Hybrid” is a newly developed mild hybrid PHEV model with a new name. It will be released on June 4, 2025.

Peugeot launched an improved version of its core model, the 308, in the Japanese market on June 4, 2025. This improvement introduces a newly developed mild hybrid powertrain, the 308 GT Hybrid, and the name of the existing plug-in hybrid model has also been changed, further enhancing its appeal. This evolution is part of Peugeot’s electrification strategy and can be seen as the result of pursuing improved efficiency, driving performance, and environmental friendliness.

Improvements to the new Peugeot 308

The improvements to the new Peugeot 308 have enhanced its appeal and performance in the following key areas:

Peugeot’s new “308 GT Hybrid” newly developed mild hybrid “308 GT Hybrid”

The most notable feature of this improvement is the newly introduced “308 GT Hybrid.” This model uses a 48V mild hybrid system that combines a newly developed 1.2L inline 3-cylinder gasoline turbo engine with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission with a built-in electric motor. The 308 is the first in the Peugeot brand lineup to be equipped with this new powertrain.

The newly developed hybrid system utilizes the assistance of an electric motor to suppress vibrations when starting and stopping, resulting in extremely smooth and comfortable acceleration. The powerful torque build-up, especially from low speeds, provides the driver with a pleasant feeling of acceleration. Furthermore, the system is capable of running on 100% electric power up to approximately 30 km/h, and in urban driving with many traffic lights, the engine can be shut off for approximately 50% of the time per hour. This dramatically improves practical fuel economy, achieving an improvement of approximately 15% compared to conventional gasoline engine models, with an outstanding WLTC mode fuel economy of 20.6 km/L.

This newly developed gasoline turbo engine has undergone a variety of improvements to improve durability and achieve highly efficient operation. These include replacing the timing belt with a stronger timing chain, adopting a Miller cycle, expanding the variable range of the turbocharger, reducing friction with roller-type valve lifters, and increasing injector pressure (maximum injection pressure of 35 MPa). As a result of these improvements, approximately 40% of the engine’s parts have been redesigned, and the engine’s maximum output has increased by 6 hp compared to the previous model. The total maximum output of the hybrid system is 145 hp, which is equivalent to an output increase of approximately 11% compared to the gasoline engine model.

Peugeot new “308 GT Hybrid” lineup reorganization and pricing

In conjunction with this powertrain change, the 308 lineup has also been reorganized. The plug-in hybrid model, previously known as the “308 GT HYBRID,” has been renamed to the “308 GT Plug-in Hybrid” with the introduction of this mild hybrid model. Similarly, the wagon “308 SW GT HYBRID” has been renamed to the “308 SW GT Plug-in Hybrid.”

Pricing for the new 308 is as follows:

In the previous model, the 1.2L gasoline turbo engine was the entry model, but in the new 308, this has been changed to a newly developed 1.2L gasoline turbo mild hybrid, and the 1.5L diesel engine has been positioned as the new entry model. The newly introduced mild hybrid “308 GT HYBRID” is priced from 4.79 million yen.

Peugeot’s new “308 GT Hybrid” sporty and sophisticated exterior design

The exterior of the new Peugeot 308 features a new generation design language, creating a cutting-edge and sporty impression. On the front face, the vertically elongated daytime running lights and turn signal units, inspired by the lion’s claws that are also used in the Peugeot emblem, are eye-catching. The headlights use Peugeot’s first ultra-thin matrix LED technology, achieving both high visibility and design.

The frameless grille gives the car a more refined feel and modern overall look. The rear design has a lower center of gravity than previous models, and the taillights are smaller, giving the car a more compact look.

In addition to the hatchback, the 308SW wagon is also available, meeting a wide range of needs. The sleek body lines reduce the Cd value (air resistance coefficient) to 0.28 for the hatchback and 0.277 for the wagon, and the excellent aerodynamic performance contributes to improved driving efficiency. Four body colors are available: Obsession Blue, Elixir Red, Perla Nera Black, and Okenite White.

Peugeot’s new “308 GT Hybrid” features an expanded body size and the latest interior design

The new Peugeot 308 has been extended in length from the previous generation, taking into consideration the balance with the compact model “208”. The hatchback body size is 4420mm in length, 1850mm in width, 1475mm in height, and 2680mm in wheelbase. The wagon 308SW has a length of 4655mm, width of 1850mm, height of 1485mm, and wheelbase of 2730mm, ensuring a larger interior space.

The vehicle body is built on a new-generation platform, which not only allows for a spacious interior, but also provides a flexible design that takes into account the compatibility with electric powertrains.

The interior features Peugeot’s latest design concept, the “3D i-Cockpit,” creating a sophisticated space. In pursuit of easy-to-understand information, the layout and design of the 10-inch digital meter have been made 3D, with important information displayed large and close to the driver. The infotainment system’s display size has also been increased to 10 inches, allowing various functions to be controlled by touch, significantly improving ease of use.

Other features of the new 308 include a wireless charging pad, eight-color LED ambient lighting, a 10-speaker Focal sound system, and electric power seats. Of particular note is the adoption of the “Clean Cabin” function, which filters polluting gases and particles while displaying air quality on the main display. The extended wheelbase also increases rear legroom, improving rear seat comfort.

The luggage space is also spacious, with the gasoline-powered hatchback offering 412 liters of storage under normal conditions and a maximum of 1,323 liters with the rear seats folded. The 308SW wagon boasts an impressive cargo capacity of 608 liters under normal conditions and a maximum of 1,634 liters with the rear seats folded.

Peugeot’s new “308 GT Hybrid” offers diverse powertrains and improved driving performance

In addition to the aforementioned mild hybrid, the new Peugeot 308 is available with a diesel engine and a plug-in hybrid.

While the previous model’s 1.2L gasoline model had a fuel efficiency of 17.9km/L, the newly developed 1.2L gasoline MHEV in the new model has a fuel efficiency of 20.6km/L, significantly improving fuel economy while also improving driving performance.

Peugeot’s new “308 GT Hybrid” is equipped with comprehensive safety features

The new Peugeot 308 is generously equipped with the brand’s advanced safety systems.

• Active Safety Brake: Supports motorcycle, pedestrian and night-time detection to avoid or reduce the risk of collision.
• Active cruise control (with stop and go function): Supports comfortable driving on highways and other roads.
• Lane Positioning Assist: Assists you with steering to keep your vehicle in the center of your lane.
• Lane Keep Assist: Detects when your vehicle is about to leave its lane and assists you by steering the vehicle back into its lane.

In addition to these key features, the car also features 360° Vision, Long Range Blind Spot Monitor System, Rear Traffic Alert, and Post-Collision Safety Brake, ensuring high levels of safety in all directions.

The potential of the electric vehicle “E-308/E-308SW”

The electric vehicle models “E-308” and “E-308SW” have also been announced for overseas markets. These models are equipped with an electric motor that outputs 156ps/26.5kgm and have a range of over 400km. To improve aerodynamic performance, they feature a special front end and underbody, and are equipped with low-resistance tires and 18-inch aluminum wheels.

There are four drive modes: “Sport (highest performance),” “Normal (optimized comfort),” “Eco (reduced power output and maximized range),” and “Brake (increased energy regeneration),” allowing the driver to select the optimal mode depending on the driving situation. The development of electric models, which are also expected to be introduced in the Japanese market, clearly demonstrates Peugeot’s commitment to the environment.

Release date and future prospects

The improved new Peugeot 308 was officially launched in Japan on June 4, 2025. By introducing the latest powertrain and advanced technology to the 308, the brand’s flagship model, Peugeot aims to appeal to a wider range of users and further increase its presence in the market.

This improvement is not just a model change, but demonstrates that Peugeot is steadily moving towards the age of electrification. The improved fuel efficiency, evolved driving performance, and comprehensive safety features demonstrate that the new 308 meets all the requirements of a modern automobile at a high level.

With its sophisticated design, advanced technology, and diverse powertrain options, the new Peugeot 308 will be the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle. Attention will be focused on how the new 308 will lead the future of the Peugeot brand.

Stellantis News Release

https://www.stellantis.jp/news/20250604_peugeot_308_hybrid

Peugeot 308

https://www.peugeot.co.jp/range/new-peugeot-308.html