We tested the new Peugeot 308 SW: a renewed family car that engages with its design and convinces with its behavior

The new  Peugeot 308 SW  has landed as one of the most anticipated versions  of the new five-door variant. Facing the SUV seat, a completely redesigned family body with more sporty and aggressive elements is a breath of fresh air.

We were able to test both the  higher-performance plug-in hybrid version  and the 130hp petrol version in first contact, and these are our impressions.

A more aggressive look

This C-segment model has accumulated 1.3 million sales in its previous version. Now it returns completely renewed with 110 hp and 130 hp PureTech petrol engines and a 130 hp BlueHDi diesel and two plug-in hybrid alternatives.

These carry the DGT ZERO label and crown the range, offering 180 HP and 225 HP respectively.

The first thing that strikes the exterior of the Peugeot 308 SW is a  fluid and aerodynamic design  . The shape of the structure has been optimized to design a steeply sloped roof and increase the area available to shape the rear without compromising interior space.

Its wheelbase is 55 mm longer than the sedan, 60 mm longer and 20 mm lower, accentuating the sporty look and improving the drag coefficient, which is now 0.27.

However, compared to the new 308 hatchback,  the battle is 5.7 cm (2,675 mm) higher  , so the cabin is more functional and spacious, especially in the rear row of seats.

It also benefits from a larger trunk, with 196 liters more:  608 liters  against the 412 liters offered by the five-door. The PHEV options have a slightly lower volume due to the space occupied by the batteries: 548 liters and 1,751 liters.

In addition, it benefits from modularity in the  rear bench seat  , since it can be  folded down into three positions (40/20/40)  thanks to the controls located on the side of the boot. The right and center seatbacks can be folded down independently.

Seats folded down, it can  load objects over 1.85 m long.

The rear of the new Peugeot 308 SW continues with the characteristic shapes of the saloon flank, sculpted in depth, creating a pronounced entrance of light which gives the impression that the car is closer to the ground.

It incorporates the ultra-thin full LED lights of the saloon version, but without the black band that connects them. Priority has been given to aerodynamics and the optimization of airflow.

At the front, the new Peugeot 308 SW displays the brand's new logo on a grille entirely turned towards its emphasis.

The chiselled headlights use LED technology from the first trim level. They are extended by the front bumper with fang-shaped daytime running lights.

There are also  seven  body colors  available,  although some shades vary: Avatar Blue, Elixir Red, Pearl White, Banquise White, Artense Grey, Platinum Gray or Perla Nera Black.

Technology

In terms of technology, the evolution of the Peugeot i-Cockpit driving position  is the protagonist. In addition to a new compact steering wheel, it incorporates a 10-inch (25.4 cm) screen integrated into the dashboard, which is complemented by virtual i-toggles.

In front of the driver, an innovative 10-inch digital instrument panel is displayed from the Active Pack finish, which adopts  a 3-dimensional display  from the GT version. Both screens are fully customizable.

In the central console, there is a new selector for gears, in the case of those with automatic transmission, as well as a command for the  different driving modes  : Electric, Hybrid, Eco, Normal and Sport, depending on the engine chosen.

In addition, in this central area are two cup holders, and storage compartments of up to 34 liters between the trunk under the armrest and the front.

In terms of  connectivity  , we find the Wireless Mirroring function which allows you to interact with two phones via Bluetooth at the same time.

The experience is completed by the Peugeot i-Connect Advanced connected navigator   , and the “Ok Peugeot” voice recognition command, which provides access to the infotainment functions.

First impressions behind the wheel of the Peugeot 308 SW

There is no doubt that the new 308 SW is a model that is obvious, especially if your preferences are for family bodies and not so much for SUVs.

In a first contact we were able to test the PureTech 130 S&S EAT8 engine.

Once inside, we find  a vehicle very well finished  , with everything within reach but maintaining the sobriety, materials pleasant to the touch and extremely comfortable seats on the move.

The GT finish includes a 10-inch screen in the driving position and a very innovative three-dimensional effect.

Getting used to the new driving position isn't easy if you're not used to steering wheels that are too compact, plus the problem that the upper rim of the steering wheel covers  the information that's projected onto this screen in a rather uncomfortable way.

Another downside is the finish of the infotainment screen; Although it's fully customizable so you can see what interests you at a glance and its orientation avoids distractions, the fingerprints are too noticeable.

The habitability is good both in the front and rear seats, where the central place remains reserved for an adult.

The gear selector, located in the center console, becomes artificial in its layout and its mechanics, even if it is a matter of taste and handling. However, after a few miles, the sensations begin to surface, and the output is natural and almost imperceptible to the ear.

The  130hp petrol version  is more than capable of coping with overshoot and any torque requirement even in Normal mode, and in Sport mode it shows off the balance of the model thanks in part to the EMP2 platform.

The soundproofing is more than adequate, and the suspensions make the journey comfortable, absorbing the irregularities of the road well.

We were also able to test the most efficient version, the  HYBRID 225 e-EAT8. It mounts a 180 hp (132 kW) PureTech petrol engine, which also comes in addition to an 81 kW electric unit. In your case, the total delivery extends up to 225 HP.

In this case, the weight of the batteries penalizes this verve of the thermal version, and it feels heavier in starts and overtaking. The consumption that homologates this version is 7.5 liters per 100 with the battery discharged, a figure that must be put into perspective during a thorough test.

In terms of driving aids, the  Drive Assist 2.0 pack  launches semi-automatic lane change, speed pre-warning and speed adaptation on bends, to which must be added adaptive cruise control with function Stop and Go and Lane Keeping Aid.

In short, it is a very successful family in terms of design and driving sensations; it transmits poise, good guidance, sound insulation and the suspensions offer good driving comfort. Comfortable for long journeys and able to react quickly.

Price Peugeot 308 SW

Recommended price from Active Pack finish: