Peugeot is proud that it has managed to cut its average CO2 emissions for its entire range from 115.1 g/km in 2013 to 111.2 g/km. This was achieved through the introduction of a series of new downsized, turbocharged engines all of which are Euro 6 emissions compliant – it’s also made some of its older units, like the 1.6 THP turbo, compatible as well.

The engines it’s most proud of are the 1.2-liter PureTech three-cylinder turbos. These offer (massive) efficiency and emissions benefits (on paper); for instance, the 1.2 PureTech 130, which replaces the naturally aspirated 1.6 VTi improves CO2 emissions by 45 g/km, with comparable efficiency gains.

When powering the new 308, the 130 PS model does a claimed 57.6 mpg UK (4.9 l/100km), while in 110 PS guise, the 1.2 turbo averages 61.4 mpg UK (4.6 l/100km). Peugeot says part of the gain also comes from using its new six-speed autobox, as well as stop-start.

There’s also a new BlueHDi 120 unit (a 1.6-liter) which achieves crazy claimed figures: 91.1 mpg UK (3.1 l/100km) for the hatch and 88.2 mpg UK (3.2 l/100km) for the estate – the new six-speed auto was not used here; these are manual gearbox numbers.

The bigger 2.0-liter BlueHDi engine, which makes 177 hp and the 202 hp THP turbo petrol are also new and up to the same standard of efficiency and cleanliness – they are the sole power options for the 308 GT.

We’re curious to see what it does with its promising Hybrid Air tech and its positive implications on fuel consumption, which should come without the weight, complexity, cost or environmental downsides normally associated with (battery-powered) hybrids.

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