Peugeot 308 facelift adds range and light-up badges

The Peugeot 308 now has a new face, an illuminated nose and a series of tech changes that include greater range for the electric version.

Spot the facelift by the illuminated badge, a new trend. It forms part of a heavy revision of the 308’s front end. The enormous grille no longer so immense, resulting in a sharper look. Its ‘three-claw’ daytime running light signature replaces the vertical bar of the outgoing car. On the upper spec models there’s an array of short vertical lights that flank the illuminated logo. They run between the DRLs and form something akin to a light bar. 

The main headlamps hide beneath the daytime running lights.  Sculpted bumpers and a large air vent gives the 308 a greater sense of width. 

Check out our review of Peugeot 308 GT PHEV.

The only major design change beyond the nose is that all models now get the 3D three-claw rear lights previously only fitted to the top-spec GT. There are also different blue colours for the hatch and SW estate models. 

Cabin changes include new seat fabrics and updated graphics for the instrument cluster. The top-end GT Premium specification adds Alcantara heated massage seats, a 360-degree camera, the Driver Assist Plus safety pack and an alarm. 

As to the E-308, engineers have eked out more range from the existing battery system. Expect another 40km of range for the hatchback and 32km more for the SW estate. That takes the total to almost 450km for both. The 308’s charging rate remains at 100kW maximum.

Peugeot is now also offering three levels of adjustable brake regeneration by paddles on its EV, replacing the ‘B’ button that switched the brake mode on or off. 

The company also offers Plug & Charge technology. At compatible chargers, drivers simply plug in and walk away. The charge point recognises the car and bills the driver accordingly. It is becoming increasingly commonplace in Europe. 

A Vehicle-to-Load capability is a new feature, so owners can feed electricity from the car to charge other appliances. 

As to other models, the PHEV 308 gains the new 144kW seven-speed auto system powering the new 3008, offering a sprint time of 7.6 seconds and 85km of EV range. 

The regular 107kW hybrid petrol powertrain remains.