Peugeot 308 CC e-HDi

It's update time for the Peugeot 308 CC – and with it comes a sharp new look and the addition of an efficient e-HDi diesel unit. We took to the road to see if the changes make the French manufacturer’s revamped folding hard-top the one to go for. 

The new engine is a 112bhp 1.6-litre diesel, which returns 60.1mpg and emits 116g/km of CO2. These decent figures are partly down to a ‘micro-hybrid’ stop-start system, made up of two super-capacitors that help give the smoothest restart of any diesel engine we’ve encountered. It’s also impressively consistent, even with the air-conditioning on. 

On the move, the engine is smooth and quiet, providing a solid punch at low revs, thanks to its 285Nm of peak torque. 

The sprint from 0-62mph takes 12.2 seconds, and top speed stands at 118mph. 

Along with its new engine, the CC gets an updated look that includes a slim new grille, redesigned headlamps and LED running lights. However, there’s still no disguising the bulbous rear end, which is necessary to stow the folding hard-top roof. 

The CC may be more efficient and eye-catching than before, but many of its faults remain. 

Steering is sluggish and over-assisted, the ride is firm and the car struggles to hide its hefty 1,600kg kerbweight. 

Prices start at £22,615. That’s about £1,000 more than a comparable Volkswagen Eos – which, sadly for Peugeot, is a better all-round proposition. 

 

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