New 308 makes its screen debut

Our images are the best yet of the car, which is set to make its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. And Peugeot buyers will be delighted to see that it looks just like a scaled-up version of the popular 207 supermini.

Behind the thin green plastic disguise lies a 207-style front end with huge headlights, a gaping grille and a big Peugeot bonnet badge.

Meanwhile, in profile, the compact family hatchback takes more inspiration from the smaller model, getting the same sleek shape, with steeply raked A-pillars, chunky C-pillars and a sporty sloping tailgate complete with neat triangular lights.

Inside, there will be a significant step forward in terms of quality over the outgoing car, with a 207-inspired dashboard incorporating lots of soft-touch materials. And because the 308 is based on a new platform, it's larger than its predecessor, so there should be more head and legroom for the five occupants, plus increased boot space, too.

Under the bonnet, the engine range will include the new 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol unit jointly developed by PSA Peugeot/Citroen and BMW - this powerplant already sees service in the 207 GT and GTi, as well as the new MINI range. Diesels will be carried over from the current line-up, while an oil-burner will also form the basis for Peugeot's first-ever hybrid. As we revealed in Issue 953, the modified 1.6-litre HDi will debut in the 308.

This will feature an electric motor powered by a high-voltage battery, which uses heat energy from the braking system to recharge itself. The hybrid is mated to a paddleshift semi-auto gearbox, and has the ability to turn itself off when at a standstill. It's likely to emit only 90g/km of CO2 and return 80mpg.

The green 308 should be ready to go on sale in 2009, alongside a folding metal roof CC model and SW estate. Three and five-door variants will arrive in early 2008, with a starting price of £12,500.

More images here