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The 308takes GTito a newHIGHBy the looks of things, Peugeot has just expanded thecar world’s definition of ‘hatchback’. If the 308 GTi isa hatch – and it is – then it must be an escape hatch.Because this sporting little number has to be the getaway carof choice for anyone planning to escape the ordinary.Pace and performance turn you on immediately, but the safety features areequally impressive. Read the specs and check the handling and the messagesinks in. Power is balanced by responsibility.The latest Peugeot thoroughbred is the most powerful 308 ever built. Thishi-tech engine features a twin-scroll turbocharger, a rapid response systemthat permits the turbo boost to kick in at 1 000rpm. Maximum torque of275Nm is available from just 1 700 rpm. You get to grips with this sportylevel of performance via a six-speed manual transmission that assureseffortless driveability.But before accelerating into the middle distance, dwell a minute on thesafety features. The 308 GTi brings you the A-to-Z of active safety, quiteliterally…Safe my mateESP (an electronic stability programme) is standard and incorporatesintelligent traction control for improved handling in adverse road andweather conditions. On top of that you have ABS with EBD (that’s an antilockbraking system with electronic brake-force distribution) plus ASR withDSC (anti-skid regulation with dynamic stability control) and, of course,EBA (emergency brake assist).Other safety features include a collapsible steering column and side impactprotection bars. High levels of braking performance are standard, courtesyof 340mm diameter brake discs up front and 290mm at the rear. Airbagprotection could hardly be more comprehensive – what with driver andpassenger front airbags, side airbags and curtain airbags.Not surprisingly, the 308 GTi scored five stars in its EuroNCAP 2009 test,confirming that this is a class act in safety as well as performance terms.9
Innovative technologyTurbo charged variable valve timing and direct injection result in low petrolconsumption and remarkably modest CO 2 emissions for such a highperformancevehicle. Combined cycle fuel consumption is just 6,9 litres per100km while carbon emissions are only 159g/km – a level compliant withEuro 5 standards.Sporty performance and rather dashing finishes make it tough to believe, butthe GTi is based solidly on the 308 hatch platform. One clue to this heritage isthe semi-high architecture.Abundant interior spaceAmple head height and an abundance of space for driver and passengersresult in exceptional interior brightness. A glazed surface area of 4.82m²provides panoramic visibility.But once you’ve settled into your seat, the GTi’s sports credentials stare youin the face. The leather sport steering wheel with aluminium flattened loweredge and thumb rests is a reminder of the engine power at your disposal.The aluminium foot rest and gear knob reinforce the sporting ambience.The ‘sport’ lower front panel (borrowed from the 308 CC) adds a touchof class, but the overall effect is to re-emphasise the performance-chargedaesthetics.The distinction with the mainstream 308 hatch becomes even morepronounced when you check out the GTi’s round, in-your-face fog-lightsenclosed in chrome, the tailgate spoiler for improved driving efficiency atspeed and double-chromed exhaust.The 308 platform clearly makes a great base – it’s allowed the Peugeotdesigners to reach up and take the GTi to a new level… a new high.Driving pleasureThe ride’s not only safe, it’s enjoyable too – very enjoyable.The McPherson-type front suspension and rear torsion beam suspensiondeliver smooth and efficient roadholding. Driving pleasure is accentuated byelectro-hydraulic power steering that is attuned to vehicle speed and speedof steering wheel rotation.On the 308 GTi the ride height dips by 10mm, bringing the overall heightdown 1 488cm. The 18 inch Lincabur alloy wheels are standard.So far, this all sounds very persuasive, though lion lovers who fell for the207 GTi may have an understandable attachment to that definitive hot hatch.Even so, they just might like to check out its big brother. Be assured, if you’reupwardly progressive, you’ll find the 308 GTi represents upward mobilityand more...In the 308 version, power and performance have been combined withsophistication and a sense of subtle superiority. You not only sense theupgrade; you hear it. That’s right. Apparently, Peugeot massaged the car’sacoustics so when you hit the accelerator the engine tells you straight out…‘Yeah, that’s what I’m talking about’.Engine harmonics are regulated by a vibrating membrane that customisessound quality to different levels of acceleration. A more controlled hum isproduced during long-distance cruising. You’ve got to hear it to believe it,but, man, it’s impressive.THE 308 GTi COMES WITH A FIVE-YEAR OR 90 000KMSERVICE PLAN AND A THREE-YEAR OR 100 000KMWARRANTY.10
Page 1: THE NEWRCZ French for ‘come and g
Page 9: Closer togetherThe coupé benefits
Page 13 and 14: Two, three and four wheelsThings re
Page 16 and 17: THE CCS THATTHINK THEY’ RESPORTS
Page 18 and 19: Looks like Peugeot’s first crosso
Page 20: With our new hatchback 308 GTiprovi
Page 23: Bonang B - the starleton everyone
Page 26: Partners against grime…National c
Page 29: Saving the planetOn top of accelera
Page 32: ‘Crossing over’to France,thanks
Page 36: All Peugeot vehicles are SABS appro

Our NEW - Peugeot

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