KUALA LUMPUR: The all-new Peugeot 308 THP was launched this evening, priced at RM132,888 (OTR with insurance).
The car has been revamped both inside and out to be more aerodynamic, sportier and fun to drive.
The latest 308 is based on the new generation EMP2 platform (Efficient Modular Platform 2) , resulting in the C-segment hatchback shedding 140kg, and improving on its performance.
The car is shorter and lower but wheelbase has been extended 1.2cm for added interior space and heightened comfort.
Enhancing the premium level of the 308 are full LED headlights, six airbags, Alcantara seats, panoramic roof and 18-inch wheels.
Peugeot says the 6-speed automatic gearbox is better than before, being able to shift faster and smoother. The multiple award-winning Turbo High Pressure (THP) 1.6-litre engine combines high pressure direction injection coupled with advanced turbocharger technology which churns out 150hp and 240Nm of torque. Official fuel efficiency is rated at 6.5l/100km.
The cabin which Peugeot dubbed the i-Cockpit has been revised to be driver-centric, characterised by a sports leather compact steering wheel, a high position head-up instrument panel to easily view without taking the driver’s eyes off the road ahead, a high centre console, and a 9.7” HD multifunction touchscreen.
New to the model is the addition of a Driver Assistance Pack that includes Dynamic cruise control and Emergency Collision Alert system for added safety.
In addition to the standard speed control, the Dynamic cruise control feature can also be set to regulate the distance from the vehicle in front. When a nearby vehicle is detected by the radar, a constant distance is maintained automatically via engine deceleration. When the road becomes clear (change of lane or the vehicle in front gains momentum), the cruise control returns to the reference values requested initially.
The Emergency Collision Alert system uses constant radar to detect the distance with vehicle in front. If it is too close, a visual and audible warning indicates to the driver that they should press the brake pedal to prevent possible collision. Its Emergency Collision Braking means that if an imminent collision with the vehicle in front is detected, the system applies automatic braking to warn the driver, prevent the impact, or to reduce its consequences.
Other features are keyless entry and push start button, dual-zone climate control, park assist and reverse camera.
The latest 308 car has been subjected to rigorous testing, which include 2.5 million kilometres driven, 2,500 hours of vibration and climate testing, 250,000 cycles of air-conditioning monitoring, and 4.3 million touchscreen press cycles without any failure recorded.
Among those present at the 308 launch were French ambassador to Malaysia Christophe Penot and Nasim chief operating officer, Datuk Samson Anand George. Nasim Sdn Bhd is the distributor of Peugeot cars in Malaysia.
The 308 THP can be viewed at the nearest Peugeot showroom. It comes with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage, and complimentary Peugeot Lounge access.
From left SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman, Naza Group of companies; French Ambassador to Malaysia Christophe Penot; Datuk Samson Anand George CEO Nasim Sdn Bhd and Lionel Faugeres, general director for ASEAN countries at Automobiles Peugeot.
Keyword: All-new Peugeot 308 THP launched