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Peugeot to Launch New 308 Models at Geneva; Up to 10% Reduction in Fuel Consumption
21 February 2008
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| The new 308 SW reduces fuel consumption by up to 10% compared to the outgoing 307 SW models. |
Peugeot will unveil two new 308 models at this year’s Geneva Motor Show (6-16 March): the 308 SW and the 308 GT THP 175. Peugeot introduced its 308 line—the first of the “8” generation—in September 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. (Earlier post.) The new 308 will serve as the platform for Peugeot’s first E85 flex-fuel model (the BioFlex) later this year.
The 308 SW, replacing the 307 SW, offers a selection of gasoline and diesel engines which, combined with the car’s improved aerodynamics, weight saving measures and the use of Michelin Energy Saver tires, reduces the fuel consumption compared to the 307 SW line-up by up to 10%.
Both the top end gasoline 308 SW and the 308 GT are powered by a 1.6-liter turbo-charged THP (Turbo High Pressure) 175 bhp gasoline engine fitted with a new 6-speed manual gearbox. Designed in co-operation with the BMW Group, the 1.6-liter direct injection engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger and develops maximum power of 175 bhp at 6,000 rpm, with maximum torque of 180 lb-ft / 244 Nm (or 195 lb-ft / 264 Nm with overboost) at a low 1,600 rpm.
This new engine provides the 308 GT with higher performance levels while, at the same time, providing a combined fuel consumption of 7.6 L/100km (31 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 180 g/km, 10% less than those of the 307 2.0-liter Feline 180. On the larger 308 SW, fuel consumption is 7.8 L/100km (30 mpg US), with CO2 emissions of 185 g/km.
Other gasoline-fueled models of the 308 SW use a lower-powered version of the THP plus two VTi (Variable Valve Lift and Timing injection) engines (as do the original 308 models introduced in 2007). The VTi engines are port-injected, naturally aspirated engines. In addition to the variable timing system for the inlet and exhaust camshafts, a variable lift system on the inlet valves allows their maximum stroke to be adjusted gradually according to the position of the accelerator pedal. The use of these two VVT systems, combined with the variable inlet valve lift system, makes it possible to improve the thermodynamic efficiency of the engine. This then reduces the fuel consumption (particularly in partial load conditions), and, therefore, CO2 emissions but also improves engine response and flexibility.
The most fuel-efficient model in the new 308 SW line-up is the 90 bhp 1.6-liter diesel, coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission. That model has a fuel consumption rating of 4.7 L/100km (50 mpg US), with CO2 emissions of 125 g/km.
February 21, 2008 in Engines, Europe, Fuel Efficiency | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)
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Comments
The engine is the same as the one used in the 207 GTi and the Mini Cooper S. I suspect downsizing from the old 2.0L mill accounts for the majority of the fuel economy gain.
However, I'd ask a lot of questions before buying any relatively powerful car with energy saver tires. Some of the early tread designs featured poor lateral support in fast corners, especially in the wet.
It's disappointing Peugeot decided against offering the stop-start feature already available from sister brand Citroen. The C4 and the 308 share a platform.
Posted by: Rafael Seidl | Feb 21, 2008 9:03:25 AM
Rafael
I agree about the start stop not being available, it seems to me that this could be mandated over the next few years like airbags.
Just one other point, doesn't GM believe that it will take $6000 to improve fuel economy by this amount in the US, or am i just being too narrow minded
Posted by: KevinH | Feb 21, 2008 9:27:33 AM
Since we are forced by slow implementation BEVs to continue with ICEs for some time to come, Stop-Start should be included on all of them. It is inherit on well-designed HEVs. And, I don't think the feature would be that expensive to include as a mass produced item.
Posted by: Lad | Feb 21, 2008 9:49:45 AM
