Drives.today

Greater practicality for 2022 Peugeot 308 SW

Peugeot has unveiled the SW estate version of its upcoming 308 hatchback, offering families and business drivers more space for luggage and passengers. It will also be available with a pair of plug-in hybrid powertrains, cutting running costs significantly – particularly for company-car drivers. Due to arrive at the start of next year, the 308 SW is expected to start from around £27,000 in diesel form.

Measuring 4,640mm in length, the latest 308 SW is 60mm longer than its predecessor, yet 20mm lower. It has also been given a 55mm longer wheelbase than the new 308 hatchback, along with a 21cm increase in its rear overhang to boost its luggage volume. There’s now 608 litres behind the rear seats, increasing to 1,634 litres with them folded forwards. The rear bench features 40:20:40 split and folding seats, which can be released by switches in the boot. A two-position boot floor is included, along with a 12-volt socket, LED lighting, two storage nets and bag hooks, while GT Premium versions gain a powered tailgate with gesture opening.

The 308 SW is only the second model from Peugeot to feature its new ‘roaring lions head’ logo, and its nose is identical to the hatch. Its rear features a fresh design, with the roofline plunging towards the roof spoiler and a small rear window. Beneath this sits a subtle boot spoiler, replacing the black band between the rear lights of the hatchback. Unique LED lights are fitted that are split by the tailgate, and the number plate has been moved up from the bumper. Inside, the SW will benefit from the same redesigned interior as the hatchback, with a new 10-inch infotainment display running the latest i-Connect software. Designed to be used like a tablet, the screen allows ‘widgets’ and shortcuts, along with gestures to make it faster to use. From Allure trim, drivers can also use the ‘Ok Peugeot’ voice command to utilise some of the car’s functions.

Both plug-in hybrid versions will get a 12.4kWh battery, a 1.6-litre petrol engine and electric motors, with combined power outputs of 178bhp and 221bhp respectively. Up to 37 miles will be possible in the EV mode, with a recharge taking around two hours from a 7.4kW home wallbox charger. This should result in CO2 emissions of 26g/km according to Peugeot, for a low company car Benefit-in-Kind tax rating. A 1.5-litre BlueHDi 130 diesel engine will also be offered, fitted with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Emissions of the car are expected to duck under the 120g/km barrier.

Like other models in the Peugeot range, there are expected to be five different trim levels to choose from – Active Premium, Allure, Allure Premium, GT and top-of-the-range GT Premium. 

17:50