Peugeot 308 CC - On Sale April 2009 (08/10/2008)

Peugeot pioneered the concept of “folding roof cars” way back in the 1930s with its elegant 401, 601 and 402 “Eclipse” models, and today continues this with the 207 CC and now the new member to the family, the 308 CC.

Compared to the Peugeot 307 CC which it replaces, the 308 CC is longer, wider and has a larger front and rear track to improve its overall dynamic performance. The extra length and width also benefits the occupants by increasing the passenger space compared to the 307 CC.

The 308 CC shares the same “roof concept” as the 307 CC. It consists of a two-part retractable roof with a small folding roof panel and a large rear athermic dark-tinted rear windscreen. The roof benefits from all of Peugeot’s expertise in Coupé Cabriolets and builds on a tried and tested concept.

The roof opens and closes in only 20 seconds even when driving at speeds of up to 7 mph. The system is controlled by a new electronic control unit which automatically lowers all four windows by around 50 mm before any roof operations commence.

The 308 CC has a very usable boot with a number of dedicated storage spaces (including one under the boot floor carpet to store the optional windstop). A lot of attention has also been paid to the boot area to optimise the space and gain valuable additional millimetres.

At launch two dynamic and fuel efficient engines will be available, both equipped with a six speed manual gearbox… unless an automatic gearbox option is preferred…

Petrol Engines

• 1.6 litre THP 150 bhp engine – torque of 180 lb ft at 1400 rpm - six speed manual gearbox (177 CO₂ (g/km))
• 1.6 litre THP 140 bhp engine – torque of 180 lb ft at 1400 rpm - four speed automatic gearbox with “Porsche Tiptronic System” control (192 CO₂ (g/km))

Diesel Engines

• 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 5 - 140 bhp – torque of 240 lb ft (260 lb ft with overboost) at 2000 rpm – six speed manual gearbox (155 CO₂ (g/km))
• 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 4 -136 bhp – torque of 240 lb ft (260 lb ft with overboost) at 2000 rpm – six speed automatic gearbox with “Porsche Tiptronic System” control (185 CO₂ (g/km))

Further engine options will, however, be introduced after launch.

The 308 CC will be on sale in the UK in April 2009 at a starting price of circa £17,000.