The Peugeot 308 SW III (Phase I, 2021) 1.2 PureTech (130 Hp) EAT8 stands as a prominent and highly competitive offering within the European compact station wagon segment. Launched in September 2021 and produced through January 2024, this iteration of the 308 SW represents a significant evolution for Peugeot, embodying the brand’s contemporary design language, advanced powertrain technology, and commitment to efficiency. While not directly sold in the United States, the 308 SW III plays a crucial role in Peugeot’s strategy for the European and other international markets, where demand for versatile and fuel-efficient family vehicles remains strong. It caters to consumers seeking the practicality of an estate car combined with the driving dynamics and sophisticated aesthetics typically associated with premium compact sedans. This particular configuration, featuring the 1.2-liter PureTech turbocharged engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, highlights a blend of performance, economy, and everyday usability designed for the diverse driving conditions encountered across the continent.
The Peugeot 308 SW III (Phase I, 2021): Engineering for the European Market
The third generation of the Peugeot 308 SW, designated as Phase I and introduced in 2021, arrived with a completely fresh design and a robust technological overhaul. Recognizing the distinct preferences of its primary market, Peugeot engineered the 308 SW III to offer a compelling package of space, comfort, and driving refinement. The station wagon body type, often referred to as an “estate” in Europe, provides enhanced cargo capacity and rear passenger room compared to its hatchback sibling, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals requiring greater utility without compromising on style or maneuverability. The vehicle’s architecture, centered around an internal combustion engine driving the front wheels, represents a proven and efficient layout for this class of car, ensuring predictable handling and broad appeal. The emphasis on advanced emission standards, such as Euro 6.3, underscores Peugeot’s dedication to environmental responsibility and compliance with stringent European regulations, a critical factor for market acceptance and consumer choice.
Powertrain and Performance: The 1.2 PureTech (130 Hp) EAT8
At the heart of this specific variant of the Peugeot 308 SW III (Phase I, 2021) is the highly acclaimed 1.2-liter PureTech turbocharged engine, a testament to modern small-displacement engineering. This inline three-cylinder gasoline engine, identified by the model code HNS EB2DTS, delivers a robust 130 horsepower at 5500 revolutions per minute. Despite its compact size, the engine generates an impressive 230 Newton-meters (approximately 169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque, available at a low 1750 rpm. This broad torque band ensures responsive acceleration and flexible performance in various driving scenarios, from city commuting to highway cruising. The engine’s advanced features include direct fuel injection, a sophisticated turbocharger with an intercooler, and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, all contributing to its remarkable power-per-liter output of 108.4 Hp/l. The compression ratio of 10.5:1 further optimizes combustion efficiency.
Complementing this potent engine is Peugeot’s smooth and efficient EAT8 (Efficient Automatic Transmission 8) automatic gearbox. This 8-speed unit is meticulously calibrated to work in harmony with the PureTech engine, providing seamless gear changes and optimizing fuel economy. The advanced transmission helps to maintain the engine within its most efficient operating range, contributing to the vehicle’s excellent weight-to-power ratio of 10.3 kg/Hp (96.7 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.8 kg/Nm (171 Nm/tonne). Furthermore, the powertrain incorporates a Start & Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it almost instantaneously upon throttle input, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions in urban environments. A particulate filter is also integrated into the exhaust system, adhering strictly to the Euro 6.3 emission standard, ensuring cleaner operation and reduced environmental impact.
Design, Dimensions, and Features
The design of the Peugeot 308 SW III (Phase I, 2021) is a striking example of contemporary automotive aesthetics, characterized by sharp lines, a bold front fascia, and a sleek, elongated profile typical of a modern station wagon. The vehicle’s dimensions are carefully considered to maximize interior space and practicality while maintaining an agile footprint. With an overall length of 182.52 inches (4636 mm), a width of 72.91 inches (1852 mm) without mirrors (81.18 inches or 2062 mm including mirrors), and a height of 56.85 inches (1444 mm), the 308 SW offers a substantial presence on the road. The generous wheelbase of 107.56 inches (2732 mm) is a key factor in providing ample legroom for all five occupants and contributes to the vehicle’s stable ride quality.
Practicality is a cornerstone of the 308 SW’s appeal. The trunk (boot) space is highly versatile, offering a minimum of 21.47 cubic feet (608 liters) with the rear seats in place, expanding to a cavernous 57.7 cubic feet (1634 liters) when the rear seats are folded. This makes it exceptionally well-suited for hauling luggage, groceries, sports equipment, or even furniture. The fuel tank capacity of 13.74 US gallons (52 liters) provides a respectable driving range, further enhancing its suitability for long-distance travel. The vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency is notable, with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.277, which contributes to both fuel economy and reduced wind noise at higher speeds. The 145 mm (5.71 inches) ground clearance is typical for a European compact car, offering a balance between handling dynamics and obstacle avoidance.
In terms of driving dynamics, the 308 SW III benefits from a well-engineered chassis and a precise steering system. It features a steering rack and pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive feedback and effortless maneuverability, particularly in urban settings, where its minimum turning circle of 35.04 feet (1
