10 September 2014

High performance Peugeot 308 GT for Paris show

Peugeot will present its performance 308 GT at the Paris Motor Show next month, writes Trish Whelan.

Available in hatchback and SW body styles, the new GT comes with a striking exterior design, Peugeot's i-Cockpit cabin, a versatile interior and high perceived quality. It also adds a lower ride height and further improved fuel economy that the Lion Brand says will delight the most enthusiastic drivers.

The driver is at the heart of the driving experience thanks to the 308 range's standard-fit compact steering wheel and head-up instrumentation. A Driver Sport Pack is standard which includes an amplified and more sporty engine noise. The GT also offers various driving aids like a Driver Assistance Park, Dynamic Cruise Control, Emergency Collision Alert, and Emergency Collision Braking System.

The 308 GT's engine range comprises a 1.6 petrol THP 205 which returns 130g/km C02 and 5.6 L/100kms (50.4mpg) for the Hatchback or 134g C02 and 5.8 L/100km (48.7 mpg) for the SW, and a 2.0 BlueHDi 180bhp engine with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, returning 103g/km C02 and 4.0 L/100m (70.6mpg) for the Hatchback or 107g/km C02 and 4.1 L/100km (68.9 mpg) for the SW.

The 308 GT sits on 18-inch 'Diamant' wheels, shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 3 tyres. Their fluted spokes and engraved motif are exclusive to this model. For optimum vision in all circumstances, the car has been fitted with top-of-the-range headlights made up of 62 LEDs. It also gets its own new direction indicators. You'll find the GT signature integrated into the tailgate, as well as the front grille and wheel arches.

The range of colours includes the new and exclusive 'Magnetic Blue', evocative of the blue historically reserved for French competition vehicles.

The interior has also been given a new ambiance with both the roof lining and upper window pillars finished in anthracite. Lots of red stitched add s a performance air to the interior. The instrument panel bears a new chequered flag motif background, while a large touchscreen has a new colour scheme dominated by red and black. Aluminium detailing on the pedals, with stainless steel sill finishers in the door apertures, add the finishing touch.

The car is available to order in November when full specification and prices will be announced. Deliveries commence at the beginning of January, 2015.