New Peugeot 308 facelift boosts range and sharpens styling

In a thorough mid-life overhaul, Peugeot’s eye-catching 308 has been treated to a new streamlined face and powertrain tweaks. Are they game-changing updates? Keep reading to find out.

Cars like Peugeot’s 308 (and e-308) often become victims of their own success. In other words, they’re such a ubiquitous sight on British roads, it’s easy to forget just how capable they are. 

That’s why facelifts — like this rather handsome one — are so important. Designed to stop models from stagnating or, worse, being left behind, a mid-life sprucing is just what the 308 needed.  

Starting at the front, a fresh, streamlined face is the most obvious update. A new grille, trapezoidal-shaped lower valence, and redesigned air intakes, create a ‘piercing look’, in Peugeot’s words. Then, as the icing on the cake, illuminated elements like luminous strands and a backlit badge ensure the 308 stands out in the dark.

Piercing is an apt description actually, as the styling changes also enhance the 308’s aerodynamic efficiency. That means this Peugeot is now one of the most streamlined machines in its class, which benefits fuel efficiency and battery life, in the EV’s case. Moreover, standard Michelin e.Primacy tyres help to lower rolling resistance and boost the e-308’s range by 27 miles over the outgoing model. 

Speaking of which, the lineup now boasts a more frugal and powerful range of ICE and EV powertrains. Given the expansive range of engines available, we’ll not bore you with all the details. However, highlights include a 9-bhp bump for the 1.2-litre mild hybrid, a four-mile range increase for the PHEV, and a larger 55.4 kWh battery pack in the all-electric model. 

What else? Well, Allure, GT and GT Exclusive trims now get eye-catching diamond-cut alloys in either 17 or 18 inches. Oh, and there’s even two new paint shades to pick from: Lagoa Blue and Ingaro Blue — as seen on other Peugeot’s in the range.

Don’t go expecting a similarly comprehensive interior overhaul, though. If you weren’t a fan of the old car’s futuristic cabin, you probably won’t be impressed by this one either. Still, the refined infotainment system, improved seat fabrics, and Focal® Premium Hi-Fi System, are welcome additions.   

That just leaves pricing, which is yet been released. However, if you do fancy putting an updated 308 on your driveway, order books will open in November — so you won’t need to wait long. And, if it’s the all-electric variant you’ve got your eye on, rumours suggest it might be eligible for the UK’s new £1,500 EV grant. 

Can the facelift put the 308 back on the public’s radar? Let us know if you’re a fan of this Peugeot’s sharp new look.

Hero image credit:  Stellantis