Alfonso Rizzo prova Peugeot 308 SW - Ruote in Pista n. 2239 - del 28/04/2014

If design can truly make a difference, then the success of the new 308 SW is guaranteed. Its elegant, understated lines, with perfect proportions, still feature stylistic touches such as the boomerang-shaped rear headlights or the seamless chrome frames of the side windows, sure to catch the eye of even the most aesthetically-conscious drivers. Even in terms of practicality, the new 308 SW is best in class, with a 2.73-meter wheelbase and a trunk capable of holding up to 1,660 liters. The interior is innovative, with clean lines and a limited number of buttons, almost all concentrated on the generous touchscreen in the center of the dashboard, and the revolutionary iCockpit: raised instruments and a compact steering wheel, as with the 208, 2008, and 308 sedans. But it's the engine options that truly astound the new 308 SW. The new 1.2 e-THP 130 hp 3-cylinder engine we tested on the roads of Normandy is phenomenal! Acceleration and pick-up are lightning-fast, vibrations are zero, and the sound is full, as is the power delivery from 1,500 rpm all the way up to the 7,200 rpm limiter. The ride is extraordinary thanks to the chassis based on the new EMP2 platform, which allows for a weight saving of 140 kg compared to the previous 308 SW. The combination of engine, transmission, and chassis is truly astonishing. The new station wagon also debuts the new BlueHDi diesel engines and the new 6-speed automatic transmission, finally worthy of the qualitative leap forward of a product that will easily establish itself in markets throughout Europe. Developed on the PSA Group's new EMP2 platform, the Lion's family car will be available in four trim levels (Access, Active, Allure, and Business for fleets) and with a comprehensive engine lineup that includes, for petrol engines, the 1.2-liter PureTech e-THP 3-cylinder turbocharged engines with 110 and 130 hp. The diesel offering will consist of the 92 hp 1.6-liter HDi 8-valve engine, the 115 hp 1.6-liter e-HDi, and the 150 hp 2.0-liter BlueHDi 16-valve engine. By the end of the year, the existing 115 hp 1.6-liter e-HDi will be replaced by a 120 hp 1.6-liter BlueHDi, which promises CO2 emissions of just 85 g/km. The use of the EMP2 platform and the choice of innovative materials allow the 308 SW to claim the title of lightest vehicle in its segment, reducing its weight by 140 kg. The vehicle also boasts a reduced height, lowering its center of gravity by 20 mm compared to the previous model, while also promoting an excellent aerodynamic coefficient (Cd 0.28) as well as maximum driving stability. Optimized suspension also improves the turning circle by 20 cm, and the variable-assist electric power steering, combined with the compact steering wheel, ensures excellent handling and ease of urban maneuvering. The new Peugeot 308 Station Wagon will make its Italian market debut on June 9th, with prices ranging from €19,300 to €28,550.