| New Peugeot 308 CC Automatic | ||
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(Tue 26 Jan 10) Peugeot has introduced a new high-performance version of the 308 CC with six-speed automatic transmission. Previously the most powerful petrol automatic in the range used a 140bhp 1.6-litre THP turbo engine - which incidentally had only four gears - but this one produces 156bhp and is considerably quicker, with a 0-62mph time of 9.8 seconds compared with the older car's 12.4 seconds.
The gearbox itself, developed by Japanese company Aisin to Peugeot's requirements, is based on the one found in the most powerful turbo diesel models. It is more robust than it needs to be for the THP 156, since that engine doesn't produce as much torque as the diesels do (and it is excessive torque, rather than power, which will sooner or later bring a gearbox to its knees). Aisin was therefore able to design a lighter and more compact version for the new 308 CC. Partly for that reason, it is officially slightly more economical than the THP 140 automatic, with a combined figure of 36.6mpg rather than 34.8mpg. CO2 emissions have dropped from 192g/km to 179g/km, which means a reduction in VED payments from £215 to £175. Those figures apply only until April, when the tax arrangements change. At that point VED will go back up to £200, though that's still £35 less than it would be for the THP 140. And the THP 156 will be a further £125 cheaper under the new first-year tax system. The THP 140 was available only in SE form, but the THP 156 is being sold both as an SE and as a better-equipped GT. Prices are £23,595 and £25,795 respectively. Comment on this story on Facebook or Twitter. |
