Peugeot 308 facelift brings new diesel, eight-speed auto and tech upgrades for 2018
Peugeot updates the 308 for 2018 with a new 130-horsepower diesel, an eight-speed automatic in the 308 GT, and enhanced driver assistance systems.
Peugeot has refreshed the 308 for the 2018 model year, introducing a new 130-horsepower diesel engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission for the GT, and a suite of technology and safety upgrades. The changes target both private buyers and fleet operators seeking lower emissions and improved efficiency in the C-segment hatchback market.
Engine and transmission updates
The most substantial technical change is the introduction of a new 1.5-litre four-cylinder BlueHDi diesel engine, producing 130 horsepower. Peugeot says the unit features both at-source and at-exhaust emission controls, a redesigned combustion chamber, and a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to meet stricter emissions standards. The engine replaces the previous 1.6-litre diesel and aims to deliver lower CO2 output without sacrificing performance.
The 308 GT also benefits from a new eight-speed automatic transmission, developed with Aisin, mated to the 180-horsepower diesel. This new gearbox is designed to deliver smoother shifts and improved efficiency compared to the outgoing six-speed automatic. The three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol engine with 130 horsepower receives minor updates for efficiency, and now pairs with a new six-speed manual gearbox.
Styling and equipment changes
Exterior changes are subtle but present. The front bumper has been reshaped with new openings and fog lamp surrounds, while the bonnet gets a revised profile. LED headlights are updated, and at the rear, the taillight graphics now more clearly reflect Peugeot’s three-claw motif. These updates are intended to keep the 308 competitive with newer rivals without a full redesign.
Inside, the 308 retains its original i-Cockpit layout rather than adopting the newer system from the 3008 and 5008. However, connectivity is improved with Mirror Screen smartphone mirroring and an updated navigation system that includes voice control and TomTom real-time traffic updates.
Safety and driver assistance upgrades
Peugeot has expanded the 308’s active safety features. The car now offers Active Lane Departure Warning, Active Safety Brake, and an updated cruise control system with stop-and-go functionality on models equipped with the automatic gearbox. In total, eight new-generation driver assistance systems are available, aiming to bring the 308 in line with class standards for safety technology.
Trim levels and positioning
The updated 308 is offered in six trim levels: Access, Active, Allure, GT Line, GT, and GTi. This structure covers the range from entry-level fleet models to the performance-focused GTi, which remains the flagship hot hatch in the lineup. For more on the high-performance variant, seeour coverage of the 2018 Peugeot 308 GTi facelift.
With these updates, Peugeot aims to keep the 308 relevant against newer rivals in a competitive segment, focusing on emissions compliance, improved efficiency, and enhanced technology rather than radical design changes.
