Peugeot Introduces Mild Hybrid Variant in 308 and 408 Models

Hybrid technology, particularly mild hybrid systems, is rapidly replacing the once-popular diesel engines, which are being phased out from the sales lists of major brands in favour of these more efficient powertrains.

The need to reduce emissions and move towards electrification has led Peugeot to equip its family models, the 308 and 408, with a 48-Volt Hybrid engine, delivering 136 horsepower.

This engine is paired with a dual-clutch e-DCS6 gearbox. It offers the benefits of the ECO label from the Spanish Directorate General of Traffic, such as unrestricted access to many Spanish cities' low-emission zones.

It provides approximately 1 km of range in 100% electric mode at low speeds. However, thanks to automatic battery recharging during deceleration, it can achieve "zero emissions" for 50% of urban journeys. Overall, its certified consumption and emissions figures improve by 15% compared to an equivalent petrol engine.

This 48 V hybrid technology also stands out for its agility while driving. Although the available power is 136 horsepower, it is never insufficient for either model. Through the "boost effect," the electric motor assists the petrol engine to enhance acceleration, especially at low speeds.

The larger model, the 408, boasts a spacious boot of 536 litres, expandable to 1,611 litres with the rear seats folded down. It features the latest generation of the Peugeot i-Cockpit driving position with advanced driver assistance functions, supported by 6 cameras and 9 radars. For a vehicle of this size (4.68 metres long), its certified low consumption of 5.1 litres per 100 km is impressive, which during our dynamic test of the model, reached 5.4 l/100 km.

In addition to this new mild hybrid engine, it offers a range of engines from the more powerful Plug-in Hybrid, producing 225 hp and 180 hp, as well as a third option with a PureTech 130 petrol engine. The price of this new Mild Hybrid version starts at 33,250 euros.

Regarding the compact model, the 308 includes Plug-In Hybrid, Hybrid, petrol, and diesel versions in its catalogue. It records a certified consumption of 4.7 l/100 km, which is very good for the car's size and performance. During our test drive, we did not exceed 5.1 l/100 km in urban, road, and motorway environments.

Suitable for those with less space requirements, as its boot offers 412 litres, it exhibits a more sporty character. It also features the Peugeot i-Cockpit driving position, which includes a compact steering wheel, a 10-inch (25.4 cm) dashboard-integrated screen, and a 10-inch (25.4 cm) 2D digital instrument panel. Its price starts at 27,100 euros.