Al-Qalam 
By Al Qalam Reporter
Peugeot may not be the most popular vehicle on the road but the revised 308 hatchback is not a car that can be ignored. It’s up against cars like the VW Golf 1.4TSI and the Opel Astra 1.4T and perhaps the Renault Megane Dynamique.
At a glance the interior quality and styling stand out. The assertive vertical grille proudly frames the famous Lion badge, the superbly sleek bonnet and the LED running lights are uniquely Peugeot.
Inside
Inside the 308 Allure you will find an attractive and plush interior enhancing the benefits of thePEUGEOTi-Cockpit layout with its trademark compact steering wheel.
The touchscreen also offers rapid access to key functions at the fingertips of the driver – from dual zone climate control to cruise control and all multi-media functions.
The forward view is good, thanks to the 308’s deep wide windscreen and generous front side windows. That means negotiating T-junctions and roundabouts can be done in confidence.
Although the 308 offers a decent sized loading bay (with a claimed capacity of 385 litres), which expands to 1 224 litres with the 60:40 split rear seats folded flat.
While space at the rear may be tight, tall passengers riding with me had no problem with the space available around the 308’s front seats – both head room and leg room are very generous. There’s also plenty of width, so there’s no danger of the driver and front passenger rubbing shoulders.
Each front door benefits from a good-sized pocket, while a cubby at the base of the dashboard, in front of the gearlever, will take a smartphone, wallet and keys. Behind the gearlever sits a cupholder and beneath the central armrest is another large cubby.
Smart sleek and elegant exterior
The PEUGEOT 308 Allure is instantly impressive with its perfectly balanced proportions. The car exudes a powerful sense of robustness and vigour which it owes much to a body design that fits closely with the underlying mechanics.
The muscular front bumper aptly suggests an impressive cornering capability, and its three generous lower apertures ensure effective engine cooling. Side recesses accommodate the foglamps.
The rear lamps show the proud three-claw signature night and day bringing the new 308 Allure’s look into line with the rest of Peugeot’s SUV range. With its short front and rear overhangs the new PEUGEOT 308 upholds its reputation for excellent manoeuvrability.
Driver assistance systems and connectivity
Extended driver assistance on the new PEUGEOT 308 Allure extend some of the latest-generation systems which include driver Attention Alert, Advanced Breaking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Traction Control System (ASR), Electronic brakeforce distribution (EBFD), Emergency brake assist (EBA) with emergency brake flashing hazard lights, automatic drive-away locking, central locking and dead locking, anti-theft alarm and super locking (2 pips) systems, child lock system, unfastened seatbelt warning, and ISOFIX.
Engine performance and drive
A strong balance of ride and handling with the focus being on long-distance cruising comfort: low noise levels, a supple ride and excellent stability make this model the best choice for everyday use.
This second generation 308 is up to 140kg lighter than its predecessor, which ensures strong performance and exceptional fuel economy – further helped by PEUGEOT’s advanced PureTech petrol engine.
Peugeot’s class-leading engine technology is also highlighted in this vehicle with the award-winning 96kW PureTech engine. (The PureTech engine has won Engine of the Year for four consecutive years).
The blend of performance and economy is impressive with a top speed of 204km/h, returning a consumption figure of 5.1 / 100km making the PEUGEOT 308 Allure the ideal car to zoot around town or enjoy long distance family adventures.
Service /Warranty
3yr/60 000km Service Plan
3yr/100 000km Manufacturer’s warranty
3yr/100 000km Roadside assistance
12 Year Anti-perforation and 3-year paint warranty
Servicing is recommended every 12 months or 15,000km
For more info go to: www.peugeot.co.za and www.wecometoyou.co.za
