Reduces complexity, drives value.
Peugeot Australia has today announced a radical revamp of its 308 lineup, slashing the number of offered variants from seventeen to just six, dropping two trim levels and one engine in the process.
The Access entry-level trim has been dropped entirely, with the range now starting at Active spec. Above that is the Allure (no more Allure Premium), followed by the Allure Touring, GT, and GTi. The engine that’s been removed from contention is the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol, with the current lineup only accommodating the 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol, and the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel.
The small 96kW/230Nm three-cylinder petrol will feature across Active and Allure models, with the latter gaining the 2.0-litre turbodiesel (tuned to 110kW/370Nm) as an option. GT models get the diesel exclusively, but enjoy a better tuned version, with the same engine producing 13kW of extra power. The range-topping 308GTi 270 retains its familiar 200kW 1.6-litre turbocharged unit though; The GTi is also the only manual in the range now, with lesser models coming with a six-speed automatic gearbox from Aisin as standard.
All cars enjoy the same generous spec levels as were first rolled out to the updated 308 range earlier in the year, and manages to position the car as a value proposition, rather than one driven by bargain prices. “These revisions have been made in order to increase the appeal of the 308, while increasing value and specification. The range now better mirrors customer demand and market needs,” said Kai Bruesewitz, General Manager of Peugeot Australia.
“These changes signal a change in the way we will structure our model line-up in the future, with greater emphasis on delivering vehicles that are not driven by price but offer greater value. It essentially sets the tone for upcoming 2008 and 3008 model launches,” he added.
The range now starts at $27,990 for the Active 1.2-litre PureTech, topping out at $49,990 for the GTi 270 1.6-litre manual. For more information on Peugeot, check out our Showroom.
