The Comprehensive Review: 2022 Peugeot 308 GT – A New Era of French Excellence
1. Introduction: A Bold Leap Forward
The automotive world is currently undergoing a massive transformation, where the lines between "mainstream" and "premium" are increasingly blurred. Leading this charge is Peugeot, a brand that has reinvented itself over the last decade. At the heart of this reinvention is the all-new 2022 Peugeot 308 GT. This is not just a standard update; it is a complete reimagining of what a compact hatchback can be. The team at carmotocar spent significant time evaluating this vehicle to see if it truly lives up to the hype and if it can successfully challenge the established German dominance in this segment.
2. Design Philosophy: The Art of the Shield
The 308 is the first model to wear the brand’s new identity. The center of the front grille features the new Peugeot crest—a shield-shaped logo that pays homage to the brand’s history while looking firmly toward the future.
The Front Fascia:
The GT trim level elevates the design to a new level. The grille is composed of a complex pattern of chrome elements that seem to converge toward the central logo. Flanking this are the ultra-slim LED Matrix headlights, which are standard on the GT version. The "Lion’s Fangs" daytime running lights are longer and sharper than ever, slicing through the bumper and giving the car an unmistakable presence on the road.
Aerodynamics and Silhouette:
The silhouette of the 308 has been optimized for efficiency. The roofline is lower, and the wheelbase has been extended by 55mm compared to the previous generation. This gives the car a more "crouched" and aggressive stance. The sharp lines along the side panels are not just for aesthetics; they manage airflow around the vehicle to improve fuel economy and reduce wind noise at high speeds.
3. The i-Cockpit Revolution: Interior Masterpiece
If the exterior is impressive, the interior is where Peugeot truly breaks away from the competition. The "i-Cockpit" has evolved into a digital masterpiece.
Ergonomics and Steering:
The signature small steering wheel remains, but it has been redesigned with more tactile buttons and integrated heating. For the driver, this setup provides a go-kart-like feel, making the steering feel incredibly direct and responsive. Above the steering wheel sits the 10-inch 3D digital instrument cluster, which uses layers of displays to create depth, prioritizing critical information like speed and navigation alerts.
Infotainment and i-Toggles:
The 10-inch central touchscreen is tilted toward the driver. Below it, Peugeot has introduced "i-Toggles"—fully customizable touch-sensitive keys. You can program these to do anything from calling a specific contact to launching a particular climate setting. This significantly reduces the time your eyes are off the road, solving one of the major complaints of modern touchscreen-heavy interiors.
4. Engineering and Powertrain: The 1.5 BlueHDi Engine
While many manufacturers are moving away from diesel, Peugeot continues to offer the 1.5-liter BlueHDi, and for many drivers, this remains the most logical choice.
Performance Figures:
The engine produces 130 horsepower, but the real story is the torque. Delivering 300 Nm at just 1,750 rpm, the 308 GT feels surprisingly muscular from a standstill. This engine is paired with the EAT8 (Efficient Automatic Transmission 8-speed), which provides smooth, almost imperceptible shifts.
Fuel Efficiency:
During our carmotocar long-distance test, the 308 GT showcased why diesel still matters. On the open highway, the car easily achieves fuel consumption figures that make it one of the most economical vehicles in its class. For commuters or those who enjoy long road trips, the range provided by this powertrain is hard to beat.
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5. Driving Dynamics: Precision on Every Turn
The 308 GT is built on the EMP2 platform, which has been stiffened and refined for this generation.
Suspension and Comfort:
Peugeot has mastered the art of balancing comfort with handling. The suspension is firm enough to prevent excessive body roll in corners but remains supple enough to soak up harsh road imperfections. The GT trim features specific chassis tuning that makes it feel more engaging than the standard Active or Allure trims.
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH):
One of the standout features noted by the carmotocar team was the cabin silence. Peugeot has invested heavily in acoustic insulation. Thick glass and extensive sound-deadening material mean that even at highway speeds, the 1.5 HDi engine’s sound is barely audible, creating a serene environment that rivals luxury sedans from higher segments.
6. Advanced Safety and Technology (ADAS)
The 2022 Peugeot 308 GT is packed with the latest safety technology. The Drive Assist 2.0 package is a major highlight, introducing semi-automatic lane changes.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go: Perfect for heavy traffic.
- Long-range Blind Spot Monitoring: Detecting vehicles up to 75 meters away.
- 360-degree Parking Cameras: High-definition views that make maneuvering this hatchback effortless.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Essential for reversing out of busy parking spots.
7. Practicality and Daily Life
Despite its sporty GT styling, the 308 remains a practical family car. The boot offers 412 liters of space, which can be expanded significantly by folding down the rear seats. Inside the cabin, Peugeot has maximized storage space, with a large central cubby under the armrest and deep door pockets that can easily hold large water bottles.
8. Market Positioning and The Competition
When comparing the 308 GT to its main rival, the Volkswagen Golf 8, the differences are clear. The Golf 8 is a masterpiece of logic and tradition, while the Peugeot 308 GT is a masterpiece of emotion and design. In markets like Algeria, where the price for a premium hatchback is significant, the 308 GT offers a level of "visual value" that is hard to ignore.
With a price point around 960 million centimes, it is a premium investment. However, for that price, you are getting a vehicle that feels special every time you walk up to it and every time you sit behind the wheel.
9. Detailed Specification Table
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 1.5L BlueHDi Diesel |
| Power | 130 hp |
| Torque | 300 Nm |
| Transmission | EAT8 Automatic |
| Top Speed | 208 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 10.6 Seconds |
| Trunk Capacity | 412 Liters |
| Wheels | 18-inch GT Alloys |
10. The Verdict by Carmotocar
The 2022 Peugeot 308 GT is a triumph of French design and engineering. It successfully transitions Peugeot from a mainstream brand to a genuine premium contender. While the diesel engine might not offer the raw speed of a hot hatch, its efficiency, torque, and refinement make it the perfect daily driver for the modern era.
If you value design, interior quality, and cutting-edge technology, the 308 GT is currently one of the best vehicles on the market. It doesn't just get you from point A to point B; it does so with a level of style and sophistication that few others can match.
Article written by the Carmotocar Editorial Team
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