Peugeot 308 Turbo now with 6 A/T and 156hp
They say good things come to those who wait, and those who had the patience to wait for the Peugeot 308 Turbo to be introduced with a 6-speed automatic transmission will be further rewarded with a 16hp increase in output. This upgrade comes at a price increase of RM5,000, resulting in a new on-the-road price of RM118,888 inclusive of insurance in Peninsula Malaysia.
There has been rife speculation on the arrival of this update, and now that it is finally unveiled, Nasim forecasts an increase of 30% in sales from its current average of 150 units per month. Currently, the Turbo accounts for 70% of total 308 sales in the country, which stands at 1,399 units from Jan to Oct 2010.
The new engine and transmission combo is already familiar to us, having already been introduced in the 3008 crossover. In particular, the Aisin-sourced 6-speed auto is a welcomed update from the outgoing 4-speeder. Maximum power is increased from 140hp to 156hp, produced at 6,000rpm. Torque remains unchanged, with 240Nm twisted out from 1,400rpm to 4,000rpm.
As before, the 308 continues to play the value card to entice customers, and there are quite a bit of goodies to back its argument up. Standard features include a panoramic glass roof, automatic dual-zone air-conditioning, electric folding side-mirrors, “follow-me-home” lights, daytime running lights, automated headlights, and automated wipers.
Safety concerns are answered with six airbags, ABS, electronic brake distribution, emergency brake assist, electronic stability program, traction control, dynamic stability control, a rolling code transponder immobilizer security system and two ISOFIX points for child seat installation.
The new 308 Turbo will be in Peugeot showrooms from next week onwards while it will be available for test drive at an automotive carnival at the Matrade Convention Centre this weekend.
Pictures: Official Peugeot release
