Peugeot sporty division wanted to make a statement and introduces one of the most powerful compact cars ever created by a series manufacturer. It is called the Peugeot 308 R Hybrid and it is a follow-up of another crazy concept, the Peugeot 308 R, introduced in 2013 during Frankfurt Motor Show. The new 308 R Hybrid claims to be a compact family car with supercar performances.
Exterior Design
The 308 R Hybrid also re-imagines design cues explored on the Quartz concept, seen most recently at March’s Geneva Motor Show. With front and rear tracks widened by 80mm and riding on 235/35 R19 tyres, the Peugeot 308 R Hybrid has been created with expressive louvres on the bonnet and sharp edges combined with sleek surfaces in its bumper.
The grille features a chequered pattern which allows air to cool the 500 hp powertrain. The side scoops are home to the sequential LED indicators, while the central scoop sports the 308 R Hybrid signature.
At the rear, the Peugeot 308 R Hybrid has a narrow spoiler at the top of the tailgate reinforcing the aerodynamics. The bumper’s twin air scoops help keep the battery temperature down by drawing out the hot air.
Powertrain
At the heart of the Peugeot 308 R Hybrid is a plug-in powertrain with four-wheel drive that develops 500 hp. The unit combines three sources of power, each capable of moving the vehicle independently of the others. They are a four-cylinder 1.6-litre THP 270 petrol engine, plus two electric motors – each with power of 115hp – mounted one on each axle. The front one is linked to the six-speed gearbox.
The result is a family hatchback which is capable of hitting 62mph (100km/h) from a standing start in only 4.0 seconds, with top speed electronically limited to 155mph. Even so, CO2 emissions are just 70g/km.
The braking system is on a par with the car’s performance, with 380mm ventilated discs at the front, gripped by four pistons, and 290mm discs to the rear.
