Peugeot Introduces New 308 Hatchback

After a few teaser shots, Peugeot has now revealed the new 308 hatchback in full. It will be officially introduced at the Frankfurt auto show in September and will go on sale in Western Europe immediately afterward.

There's a lot resting on the shoulders of this newcomer. More than 3 million units were sold of the outgoing 307, which this new model replaces. The 308 makes its debut amid increasingly threatening competition from European, Japanese and Korean cars like the new Kia cee'd.

Peugeot played it safe with the 308's styling, which is sleeker for better aerodynamics and fuel economy. The front end features the now-familiar Peugeot gaping-mouth grille and catlike headlights. Interior quality is said to be improved, and there'll be more space for passengers — and their stuff: Cargo capacity rises to 49.3 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded.

The long list of available engines includes a 95-horsepower 1.4-liter and a 1.6-liter without turbo (120 hp) and with turbo (150 hp). Diesel options include a 1.6-liter direct-injection unit with either 90 or 109 hp and a 2.0-liter version with 136 hp. The latter engine will have an automatic-transmission option. Amenities include seven airbags, a lane-departure warning system, bi-xenon headlamps, panoramic roof and a two-zone climate system.

Other body styles are coming, including a three-door hatchback, a wagon and a coupe-convertible. A minivan version called the 3008 is also rumored to be in the cards. Prices for the new model have not been announced.