The Most Affordable Peugeot 308 Features Something Absent in Higher Priced Variants | Carscoops

      The base Peugeot 308 Style offers more standard features than typically anticipated.

      The Style trim includes a digital cockpit, full LED lighting, and dual-zone air conditioning as standard.

      The top-of-the-line GT Exclusive variant brings sportier aerodynamics, additional features, and 18-inch wheels.

      The compact hatchback segment is extremely competitive in the European market, and Peugeot is ensuring its 308 stays relevant. The updated hatchback and station wagon models are already available for purchase across Europe, and a closer look at the configurator reveals that the modest Style trim is not only well-equipped but also retains a feature that has been removed from the premium GT Exclusive variant.

      This feature is the physical climate control panel, which comprises two rotary dials and a series of tactile buttons located beneath the central touchscreen. This arrangement is maintained in the Style, Business, and Allure trims. In contrast, the GT and GT Exclusive models come with the "Peugeot i-toggles," which are touch-sensitive shortcuts. As a result, adjusting the temperature necessitates checking the screen and tapping the appropriate area, making it more distracting while driving.

      Buttons Placed Where They Are Needed

      Notably, the most affordable 308 Style includes a 10-inch infotainment system and a 10-inch digital instrument cluster as standard, although it lacks the premium materials found in higher trims. Standard features also encompass dual-zone air conditioning, rear parking sensors, electrically folding and heated mirrors, and a six-speaker audio system.

      Additionally, the exterior of the Style features sporty bumpers and full-LED lights introduced with the facelift, complemented by black 16-inch alloy wheels.

      On the opposite end, the premium Peugeot 308 GT Exclusive trim is characterized by its diamond-cut 18-inch alloy wheels, sharper side skirts, a matching front bumper extension, and an illuminated section of the grille, which includes an illuminated Peugeot badge and Matrix LED headlights.

      Inside, the GT Exclusive is outfitted with an enhanced instrument cluster featuring 3D graphics, ambient lighting, Alcantara upholstery, and the 360 Vision & Drive Assist Plus Pack, which provides Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities. Optional features include a 10-speaker Focal audio system, a sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, all-season tires, and a retractable towing hitch.

      Powertrain Options and Pricing

      The updated Peugeot 308 is offered with mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrain options. The most powerful version is the PHEV, delivering a combined output of 192 hp (143 kW / 195 PS). The Style trim is limited to mild-hybrid and fully electric options, so those desiring PHEV and physical climate controls must upgrade to the Business or Allure trims.

      Currently, the entry-level Peugeot 308 Style Hybrid 145 starts at €28,390 ($33,300) in France, while the GT Exclusive trim with the same engine is priced at €33,277 ($39,100). The most expensive option, the 308 GT Exclusive Plug-in Hybrid 195, is priced at €39,780 ($46,700), which is €461 ($540) more than the equivalent Electrique 156.

      Fortunately, many automakers now recognize that customers prefer traditional buttons and switches for essential functions rather than navigating complex infotainment menus or using touch-sensitive controls. In this regard, we anticipate that future Stellantis models will incorporate functional climate control solutions, from their base trims to the top-tier options.

      The facelifted Peugeot 308 SW is displayed alongside the 308 hatchback.