Impressive shift

Peugeot has introduced a dual gearbox in the 308. Sofie Lidefjard finds out what that’s all about

The 308 SR is designed for today’s business user to deliver a balance of communications technology, tax efficiency and rewarding comfort levels as well as driving pleasure. That’s quite a lot to live up to… The 308 is built to the same formula as the 307, it definitely looks very similar, however, it is longer and wider, therefore providing a roomy and comfortable ride.

Two in one
What interested me most about this particular version of 308 was something Peugeot, and its marketing gurus, have chosen to call Electronic Gearbox Control. EGC brings two gearboxes into one, allowing you to alternate between sequential and automatic modes at any time.
    
As I was driving through the worst snowfalls the UK has seen in a long time, the choice of modes came in handy and gave me better control of the vehicle. Also, the handbrake feels just right, and doesn't take up much space, leaving room for cupholders and an armrest between the driver and front passenger (a comfortable place to rest your arm as it’s hovering above the handbrake, ready for fast reaction on icy roads).
    
Not only does this system give you greater flexibility for different driving conditions, it can also significantly lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The 308, powered by the HDi diesel engine, broke the Guinness World Record for fuel efficiency by travelling 1,192 miles on a 60-litre tank.

Environment
The FAP particulate filter reduces pollution and CO2 emissions by virtually eliminating particles and smoke. It’s designed to operate under all possible conditions, which I found it did without affecting the performance.
    
The stylish 16” alloy wheels don’t just look good, they perform well too. The 308 EGC comes with Energy Saver tyres, which with a decrease in a tyre’s rolling resistance leads to a reduction in fuel consumption, saving you both money and CO2 emissions.
    
Some manufacturers strip their models to the bare essentials in order to achieve a tax-friendly CO2 emissions rating of 120g/km but the Peugeot 308 HDi 110 EGC manages it with all of the essentials plus extras. With pretty good fuel economy as mentioned above, the EGC model is around 5mpg more efficient than the manual car, which makes the £400 premium needed to get one seem look a sound investment.

Safety first
The 308 has been awarded five-star EuroNCAP rating. A total of seven airbags line the interior ready to protect all passengers alike. What’s more, they inflate in relation to the force of the impact giving the right level of protection.
    
Handling through twists and turns is facilitated by the car’s Electric Hydraulic Power Steering and deformable cross-member rear suspension. Punchy, sporty styling, with confident lines emphasises the wider, longer, lower body position and the improved balance it delivers. It is quiet at speed, free from any intrusive wind, engine or road noise.

ENGINE 1.6 HDi
TOP SPEED 117 mph
0-62mph 12.5 secs
MPG (combined) 62.7
CO2 120/km