Peugeot 308 SW is the kind of small wagon that's tough to come by in America

Thu, 06 Mar 2014

The Peugeot 308 SW may not exactly stand out against the backdrop of tuner specials and concept cars here at the Geneva Motor Show, but with the action winding down we can already say that it is one of the most relevant for European buyers.

Peugeot's 308 was just named European Car of the Year earlier this week, so it appears that the French brand is doing more than a little bit right with the model. The 308 SW, meanwhile, presents a small estate version of the formula, offering the kind of reasonable economy, flexible space and relatively inexpensive price point that Euro buyers seem to find so attractive.

As we reported last month, the 308 SW drops some 308 pounds (140 kilograms) versus the outgoing version, and can be had with efficient gas- and diesel-powered engines. The 1.2-liter engine is good for about 129 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, while the larger 1.6 brings with it 154 hp and 177 lb-ft. Six-speed manual transmissions are on offer across the board (we don't see any mention of an automatic in Peugeot's rather terse press materials below).

NEW PEUGEOT 308 SW – COMBINING THE QUALITIES OF NEW PEUGEOT 308 CONCENTRATED IN A SLEEK AND SPACIOUS ESTATE

- Style with substance – the New 308 SW has the capability to enhance expectations
- New Euro 6 engines place the SW's performance at the leading-edge of the segment
- The PEUGEOT brand continues its upmarket strategy

As the New 308 hatchback goes on sale in the UK, PEUGEOT expands its medium-car range with a new silhouette. Like the hatchback, the new Peugeot 308 SW has been completely redesigned, bringing with it class-leading levels of competitiveness.

PEUGEOT designers have styled a capacious and dynamic estate car with an attractive stance that is sleek and sporty (length 4.58m and height 1.47m). Its generous dimensions comfortably exceed the expectations and requirements of customers in this sector, providing ample volume, roominess, versatility and practicality.

With a volume of 610dm3 (VDA 210 standard), the boot capacity of the new PEUGEOT 308 SW is class-leading for the segment. With stylish and clean lines, it provides a very practical and clutter-free purpose-designed space. Its modularity is achieved with unparalleled simplicity (seats are folded with a single action from inside the boot) and effectiveness (perfectly flat floor). Its quality finish is worthy of the next category up.

Like the hatchback, the New Peugeot 308 SW benefits from utilizing the 'Efficient Modular Platform' (EMP2), optimising weight-savings and providing enhanced dynamic efficiency. In total, the new PEUGEOT 308 SW is 140kg lighter than its predecessor and this greatly enhances the overall driving experience and places it strongly against other competitor estate cars.

Available at launch, the Euro 6 petrol and diesel engines guarantee outstanding performance. A new BlueHDi version emits just 85g/km of CO2, setting a new benchmark in the segment.

Inside, the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit is modern, sleek and innovative, providing its driver and passengers with a clean and clear interior environment with new driving sensations.

Built with high quality materials and to exacting build standards the new PEUGEOT 308 SW features a high level of attention-to-detail, with the specific aim of placing the car among the best, confirming the Marque's movement upmarket.

Produced in Sochaux, France, the New PEUGEOT 308 SW will be equipped with powertrain units from the Trémery and Douvrin sites.

The New PEUGEOT 308 SW has its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2014, and will go on sale across Europe in the Spring.

By Seyth Miersma