The showroom success enjoyed by the award-winning PEUGEOT 308 looks set to reach even greater heights with the arrival of a dynamic new flagship – the stunning 308 GT.
Available in Hatchback and SW body styles, both models offer assertive new styling, outstanding performance-oriented engines and bespoke chassis modifications to create a lowered ride height. The result is an exceptional on-the-road experience that will delight the most enthusiastic drivers. The enhancements clearly embody PEUGEOT’s continued move up-market, highlighted by the 308’s recognition as the 2014 European Car of the Year.
The new PEUGEOT 308 GT retains all the elements which have made the 308 range such a huge commercial hit throughout Europe. That includes the striking exterior design, innovative PEUGEOT i-Cockpit cabin, versatile interior and high perceived quality. Remarkable engine efficiency, with high fuel economy and ultra-low emissions, is also part of the 308 GT package.
The 308 GT’s unique design quality is immediately obvious. The iconic PEUGEOT Lion emblem has moved from the bonnet’s leading edge to the front grille, with three horizontal blades on either side. For optimum vision in all circumstances, the 308 GT has been fitted with top-of-the-range headlights made up of 62 LEDs.
Exclusive new direction indicators also distinguish the 308 GT from other models. Their dynamic sequential operation, moving from the inside to the outside, emphasises the technological identity of the car. They are placed above the new air scoops which supply the engine with additional cooling.
The 308 GT presents a great aerodynamic and stylistic purity, most notable where the black lacquered door mirrors merge with the tinted windows. Visibly widened by its side sill finishers, 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 the 308 GT.
At the rear, the 308 GT offers a striking and distinctive posture, thanks in part to the lacquered black diffuser and stylish twin exhaust pipes. The GT signature is integrated into the tailgate, as well as the front grille and wheel arches.
The range of colours for the 308 GT includes the new and exclusive ‘Magnetic Blue’. Evocative of the blue historically reserved for French competition vehicles, this bold shade suits the car’s fluid and dynamic lines, while emphasising its lowered ride height.
An exclusive new ambiance is also achieved in the car’s cabin, with both the roof lining and upper window pillars finished in anthracite. Red stitching adds a performance air to the upholstery trim and is also found on the dashboard, door panels, gear lever gaiter and floor mats. Aluminium detailing on the pedals, coupled with stainless steel sill finishers in the door apertures, add the finishing touch.
Vital in any sports-oriented car is the correct driving position. It’s already ideal in this new model because of the ergonomics of the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit, as seen in every 308. The driver can adjust the height and reach of the compact steering wheel, which is unique to this car thanks to its perforated leather trim and GT badge. The instrument panel bears a new chequered flag motif background and switching on the ignition produces a GT welcome message. To complement this, the large touchscreen displays a new colour scheme dominated by red and black, titled ‘Redline’.
To deliver maximum enjoyment, the 308 GT features enhanced new chassis settings. Ride height has been lowered by 7mm at the front and 10mm at the rear for a more dynamic drive. The revised suspension is mated to a choice of high-performance engines, one petrol and one diesel, that already meet stringent Euro 6 emissions standards.
The all-new PEUGEOT 308 GT will be officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next month, is available to order in November when full specification and prices will be announced, with deliveries commencing at the beginning of January, 2015.