If Peugeot is to muddle through the European debt crisis, it needs to strengthen its presence and gain market share in key categories such the popular B- and C-segments.
The French carmaker has already launched its main supermini competitor in the form of the brand-new 208 hatchback and will soon throw the new 2008 small crossover into the market, so it’s now focusing on the development of the compact 308’s replacement that will challenge the likes of the VW Golf Mk7 and Ford Focus.
Our spies captured a 308 prototype undergoing winter tests in Europe, and while the hypnotic camouflage makes it hard to tell all the details, it appears that the compact hatch will look like an adult version of the junior 208 with styling references to Peugeot’s HX1 and HR1 concept cars.
So, what else do we expect from the new 308? Well, it’s almost certain that Peugeot will reduce the car’s weight, all in the name of fuel efficiency and handling, while its underpinnings and powertrains will be shared with Citroën C4 and DS4 models.
In addition, the French Group’s HYbrid4 diesel-electric hybrid powerplant will likely be offered in Europe.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoop
PHOTO GALLERY
