There are still many options for SUVs in Europe, however.
Many European brands believe the old station wagon’s potential appeal is still there, even though not everyone has fallen for it. Peugeot is one of these brands, unveiling today the slinky Peugeot 308 SW to compete with the Volkswagen Group’s trio: the SEAT Leon Sportstourer and Skoda Octavia COmbi.
The 308 SW This compact wagon is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful on the Old Continent. It largely carries over hatchback’s design and adds a longer roof for more practicality. Although we could do without faux exhaust tips, they are very popular today and will be there for some time.
It’s all about cargo capacity, since it’s a wagon. The hatchback’s 412 Liters (14.5 cuft) is surpassed by the 608 Liters (21.5 cuft), which, while not being segment-leading, means that the 308 SW offers more than most people will ever need. If that is not enough, the standard 40/20:40-split rear benches can be folded down to increase the volume to 1,634 Liters (57.7 cubic feet). It also allows for the loading of objects longer than 1.85m (sixfeet).
The next-generation model is six centimeters longer than the previous 300 SW and has been lowered 20 millimeters (0.8 inches) compared to the 308 SW . To give the wagon a more sleek look, the windshield has been swept back to increase the width of the rear and front axles.
It’s the same hatchback that we found several months ago, except for the larger derriere. The high-end model has matrix LED headlights and full-LED taillights. It also features 16- to 18 inch wheels and two 10-inch screens inside. The 308 SW will be able to stand out from its conservatively-designed rivals, such as the Renault Megane Estate.
Similar to the five-door model but with more practical features, it rides on the EMP2 platform. It also offers a choice of two plug-in hybrid powertrains. The PHEVs have an 81-kilowatt motor, 12.4-kWh batteries, an eight-speed auto transmission, and a gasoline engine that produces 150 hp. This translates into a combined output of 180 hp and 225 hp. The battery can travel approximately 60 km (37 miles) per WLTP.
The 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine with 110 or 130 horsepower will be available. It can be connected to either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional eight speed auto in the case where the engine is more powerful. People who plan to drive a lot on the highway will choose the 1.5-liter diesel engine with 130 horsepower and the same gearbox options. Peugeot already confirmed the all electric 308 hatchback, but it’s too early to know if the wagon will also get the zero-emissions treatment.
The hatchback is slowly entering more Euro markets, but the wagon will not arrive until 2022. It will be made at Stellantis Mulhouse factory, much like the hatch. Opel will soon unveil its mechanically related next generation Astra in both styles.