Lifestyle focus: Peugeot 308 CC

Many of us in the tropics and especially the equatorial hot-and-humid climate will shrug off the usability and practicality of a cabriolet - even with the advent of hardtop coupe-cabriolet in the last decade or so.

Admittedly, I was like that until I sampled a VW Eos over a weekend to the beach town of Port Dickson some three years ago. I had actually "owned" a Porsche Boxster for about a year and it was less convincing with its relatively fiddly and noisier soft-top.

Sadly, with excessive procrastination the VW Eos outing write-up didn't materialise on this blog. Which would have happened to the 308 CC launch story if some good friend of mine didn't whip my butt over this. I also tested the 207 CC sometime ago and you can read all about it here.
I am somewhat a fan of coupe-cabriolet but i am of the opinion that this will have top be your 3rd car or higher in vehicle ownership serials which is actually much an extravagance. In short, a pure lifestyle accessory in the automotive department.

With this in mind, Nasim started off their 2011 new models unveiling with the official launch of the Peugeot 308 CC, the first of four new models due for the Malaysian market this year.

A coupe-cabriolet in 2+2 guise, this topless Pug in THP 156 form, translates to a maximum output of 156 hp + 240 Nm, courtesy of BMW-Peugeot's Prince 1.6-litre complete with twin-scroll turbo and direct injection. The 308 CC comes with a standard six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic. Peugeot claims a 212 km/h top speed and a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 9.8 secs.

As with most Naza/Nasim automotive launches – the 308 CC is tagged at a rather attractive price i.e. RM186,888, on-the-road with insurance.

Some of the yummy goodies packaged together are the dynamic directional xenon headlamps with automatic height adjustment and washers, LED rear lights, 18-inch alloy wheels and a twin rear diffuser as part of the exterior parcel.

The interior of this gorgeous drop-top features dual zone air-conditioning, electric front seats (with memory settings for the driver's), cruise control, instrument dials with white backgrounds and a retractable high resolution 7-inch 16:9 LCD screen.

Safety kits which are standard include ESP, ABS, EBD, EBA, DSC and Anti-Skid Regulation (ASR) among others. Meanwhile, passive safety kit in the 5-Star Euro NCAP-rated vehicle includes a rear roll-over protection system – comprised of active extendable aluminum roll-over protection bars that pop up within 20-miliseconds in the event of a roll-over accident. Apart from these, there are six airbags, which include the world’s first side head airbags, housed in the seat and deployed laterally from the head restraint.

For in-car entertainment, there’s a CD player/MP3 head unit with Bluetooth connectivity, JBL Hi-Fi audio system with 10 speakers and a 240 watt amplifier. As for the two-piece electrically retractable hard-top roof, this one folds up and down within 20 seconds. For the occasional or avid golfer looking forward to driving to a Golf & Country Club, boot space volume is 465 litres with the top up, and 266 litres with the roof retracted and stowed away in boot.

Peugeot 308 (5-door) test part deux: the Turbo version

Apparently, the Malaysian car market is at dearth of proper (officially sold) turbo cars that this Pug seemed heaven sent. More so at quite unbelievable prices of RM112k (initially) to RM114k now. With larger and better looking 17" 5-spoke alloys shod with expensive ContiSportContact3 tyres, climate control A/C, a nice exhaust-gas driven compressor to complement direct injection, plus recently added panoramic glass roof, this Peugeot with a "BMW engine" or "Mini Cooper engine" (BMW-PSA to be precise) must be the default choice for many, seeing that it is the middle child, sandwiched between the sub-RM100k VTi and near-RM160k GT THP175.



I have always been a sucker for soft-touch dashboards, whatever the class or segment. The slab found in the 308 range has hit my (equally) soft spot, albeit a bit too clinical in design i.e. typical Frenchie style. Ditto the chronometer like instruments. Some say it's a bit too old fashioned in the face of LEDs, Optitrons and the likes. I absolutely love the glow behind the instrument needles and those fine fonts embedded within fully illuminated face et al.





Countlessly , I have mentioned how much I dig those soft yet comfy and supportive seats in the VTi n GT. Strangely, the Turbo' ones get a little bigger but too spineless especially around the edges aka lateral flanks. More shapely versus the VTi's but not as comfortable or hugging, though just a tad so.




There's no mistaking the turbo boost here, since you can actually hear the turbine whine upon quickly lifting off the gas pedal after some amount of revving. With a torque of 240Nm lugging the hatch along, it was definitely a better get-up and go. Gaining mid band speed was also a breeze, thereby hastening overtaking manouvres and delivering spades of confidence along with good body control. But somehow, the overall drive experience came across as being busier than the VTi. Likely due to a missing 5th ratio on the gearbox which was more perceptible here, in the sea of higher and wider torque band.




Ride comfort and suspension pliancy seemed lost too in the crowd of the cheaper VTi and even the GT. Being a little too firm and harsh at times, which even the 18" shod GT don't seem to be bothered with. However, the upside to this is excellent tracking composure, nice incisive lane changing and feeling of axles plantedness (due to excellent rubbers?) exhibited by the 308 Turbo. In fact, on two trips up to Bukit Tinggi and back, the 308 Turbo seemed to have aced even my '07 Colt Turbo with original Ralliart "hard-setting" suspension. That's Peugeot suspension tuning wizardry working for you, I guess.




Slightly biggish steering wheel aside and a wee-bit synthetic light feel, the overall performance of this modern-engined 308 cannot be faulted. And yes, my kids love it on other outings too, they didn't get flung around unnecessarily or got nauseated on even longer interstate jaunts. So those with a young family, you don't need to assasinate the boy-racer in you. Boot space is pretty decent too, but of course the ubiquitous Vios/City or Civic/Altis for that matter have rumps that can carry more cadavers. Still personally, I wish this Turbo had that manual 6-speed auto from the GT or the latest 6-speed auto 'box from the upcoming 308CC. And perhaps a little more of that Lion's magic sprinkling on the suspension damping for more suppleness.





Related posts:

Driven: Peugeot 308 VTi
Peugeot 308 VTi & Turbo launch in Malaysia
Peugeot 308 GT in Malaysia now
All-new Peugeot 308

Peugeot 308 promo trucks spotted on highways

In a refreshing departure from the usual black-masking-taped vehicular spy shots, Nasim has been very bold with the 308 emblem of its upcoming Pug C-segment hatch. Estimated to be priced circa RM90k for the base version 308VTi 5-door hatch.

The new 308 will be launched on 29th January 2009 by Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister (and Prime Minister to-be), YAB Dato' Sri Najib Tun Razak at 8.30am. Official details to follow only thereafter...

Related post:

Peugeot 308 coming soon to Malaysia

You may want to read this:

Driven: Peugeot 308GT

Driven: Peugeot 308GT

I used to dread the thought of piloting a manual car ever since I sold off my Proton Wira 1.3GL and my Honda Accord (SM4) 2.0i manual from my houseman and medical officer years. Of course, I'd still bear that occasional Langkawi rental car e.g. Iswara LMST in manual guise, for its bargain-basement day charges.

Strangely, after having sampled the new Saga 1.3M, Toyota Vios J, Fiat Bravo 1.4 T-Jet, Civic Type-R, Renault Megane R26 F1, Clio RS and of course, the Peugeot 308GT, I have discovered how much we have drifted away from it all - the joys of a manual 'box. Things like having better control (engine braking) going into corners and livelier overtaking, all while harnessing an engine's torque band more instantaneously. In short, being on top of things when your drive gets more spirited and/or competitive.

Certainly, there is that twin-clutch automated gearbox of late. I have no qualms about such technological advancements since a gearbox having twin drive shafts in tandem with dual clutches - for uninterrupted torque transmission - is simply better than singular (AMT or the regular fully manual clutch). Afterall, such robotic gearbox is the way to go for the future. However, for junkies who simply love their heel-and-toe antics and that stick shifter, the manual tranny is as 'connected' as one can be. Undiluted, good 'ol driving pleasure. Blame it on our horrendous city or urban traffic congestion for such paradigm shift since late 1980s. I could still vividly remember the good times when my dad bought a Datsun 160J SSS, Datsun 120Y, Mazda 323 and Toyota Corolla 1.3 LE (my brothers' memorable Ford Laser TX3 1.6i, Ford Telstar TX5 and Mazda Familia too). Back then, people used to scoff and swear at auto trannies! Can't believe I am now advocating and rediscovering lost love for the manual 'box since it was just early this year that I had quite an animated debate on the virtues of VW's DSG versus a 6-speed manual with a silly fiend (no typo here) of mine.

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Which brings us to this 6-speed manual Peugeot 308GT with one of the finest gearknob around town. I thought I had carressed the best in the business in the FD2R Civic Type-R but this French 'cap' is real solid and exudes a quality, premium feel. Shift quality is accurate - though not exactly a short shifter - only to be let down by the rather highly set clutch pedal.



The Swiss really know their watches but here I'd say the French know their instrument gauges. Look at the speeedometer layout, contrasts, fonts and that fine needle with a red backdrop-surround glow. I am sure you'd too likened it to a fine chronometer. Ditto the tachometer and the temp/fuel gauges. Clean, neat, easy-to-read and classy. These hopeless romantics also dig shapely wing mirrors. Never mind its rather small field of vision or droopy appearance, like a semi-subluxated fractured wrist, they just looked sexy from both inside and out. Note where the turn signal repeaters are placed, at the base of the wing mirror stalk, and you reckon the French are non-conformist.







On the flipside, they are pretty conforming when it comes to the shared turbocharged Prince powerplant of BMW-Peugeot collaboration. Yes, this is the same 175bhp direct-injected lump found in the new New Mini Cooper S, good for 240Nm of torque from a displacement of just 1.6L.


The new 308GT is simply a looker. It may sport a 3-door sports hatch body but it is indeed spacious on the inside. This Pug rides pliantly well, even on 18-inchers and grippy around corners with standard Pirelli P-Zero Rossos. Those typical French seats are adequately sized, well padded and supportive all around for long journeys. With soft leathers looking upmarket in black, they're pleasantly cosseting and comfortable. In fact, the interior is a nice place to be indeed, as it oozes with plenty of soft touch surfaces and a classy ambience.




At less than RM160k for a fully-imported, continental turbocharged hot hatch, here is one that is loaded with goodies like the JBL hi-fidelity audio system, auto wiper, auto HID headlamps, a multitude of airbags and that airy panoramic roof. Added to this impressive check-list is the heart of the Lion: the New Mini Cooper S' engine with BMW DNA, so you better hurry up to the nearest Nasim showroom if you are serious about getting one for the new year(s) festivities. Last I heard, the equipment specifications and trim may be downgraded with the next CBU batch to keep the new 308GT THP 175's pricing competitive. This is as close as you can get to a new New Mini Cooper S on a 'shoestring' budget.

Related posts:
New Peugeot 308GT in Malaysia now
Peugeot 308VTi and 308Turbo coming soon to Malaysia

You may want to read this:
Topless driving: Peugeot 207cc

Peugeot 308 coming soon to Malaysia

Nasim Sdn Bhd (NSB), the official franchise holder for Peugeot has begun taking orders for the new award-winning Peugeot 308. The new car is expected to arrive at all Nasim outlets in January 2009.

Two variants of the new Peugeot 308 will be offered: 308VTi and 308Turbo. Both are 5 door hatchback models with automatic transmission.

New Peugeot 308 GT in Malaysia now

Nasim Sdn Bhd (NSB), franchise holder, importer and sole distributor for Peugeot automobiles in Malaysia has recently introduced the new Peugeot 308 GT THP 175, at an estimated price of RM159,999 (OTR).

Powered by a 1.6 turbo high pressure (THP) engine - shared with the Mini Cooper S - the 308 GT is good for 175bhp at 6000rpm and an easily accessible 240Nm of torque from a low 1600rpm. Such output figures enables a maximum speed of 225kmh and acceleration in 8.3 seconds from 0-100kmh, achieved through the gears of a 6 speed manual transmission. Running on 18inch wheels, the THP engine manages to return a fuel consumption of approximately 7.6 litres/100km in a combined cycle, as claimed by Automobiles Peugeot.

Exterior-wise, the new 308's frontal visage is hard to be mistaken for anything else, especially with the larger emblem of the iconic Peugeot lion sitting higher on the bonnet. The newly swept back automatic Xenon headlights signify the modern yet sporty Pug character of the new Peugeot 308 GT. Its standard full panoramic roof endows the driver and passengers a more airy view of the world outside.



The interior of the Peugeot 308 GT comes fitted with 6 airbags which helps it to achieve full Euro NCAP safety ratings of 5 stars.

This newly arrived Peugeot 308 GT is now available for viewing and booking at all NSB showrooms and authorised NSB dealers. For further information, please contact the Peugeot Careline at 1-800-88-6292.

Peugeot to launch 308 GT THP 175 at Geneva 2008

Peugeot will unveil two new 308 models at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the innovative and practical 308 SW and the dynamic 308 GT THP 175.

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This new top-of-the-range petrol-driven 308 will be powered by the 1.6L turbocharged THP 175bhp petrol engine, previously found in the 207 GTi THP 175. It is also fitted with a new 6-speed manual gearbox.

Designed in joint-venture with the BMW Group, the 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine develops a maximum power of 175bhp at 6000 rpm but is characterised mainly by its generous torque output. With a maximum torque output of 245Nm (or 265Nm with overboost!) at only 1600rpm, the engine provides excellent in-gear acceleration and levels of driveability normally associated with a larger capacity engine.

Performance figures are 0 - 100km/h in 8.3 sec, on the way to a top whack of 225km/h. Claimed fuel consumption figure is an impressive 37.1 mpg. The beauty of a modern, high performance small 4-pot with direct injection + turbocharging? Think: Fiat Bravo GT, VW Golf GT TSI and Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart :)

To match the dynamic nature of the engine, the exterior of the vehicle has undergone dynamic aesthetic changes. The lower front bumper panel has a unique appearance which is combined with a rear spoiler and a reduced overall ride height. Inside, the interior gains an aluminium gear knob and foot pedals and a new steering wheel design.

Nasim Sdn Bhd (NSB) has earlier indicated that the new Peugeot 308 will probably debut in the middle of 2008 in Malaysia. The 308 GT may be just one of the special models that are brought in to further excite the Malaysian market. Those who are interested in the new 308 may call the Peugeot Careline at 03-2617 7777 for more information.

Related posts:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/06/all-new-peugeot-308.html

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/08/peugeot-308-rc-z-concept.html