The new model is intended to build on the product values of stylish design, impressive driving experience, class-leading efficiency and high-quality fit and finish as well as offering an excellent, stress-free driving experience.

A full range of petrol and diesel engines is available from launch, and includes the 1.6-litre HDi 120 with CO2 from 82g/km. The arrival of the New 308 helps further enhance the Peugeot brand's environmental commitment to low CO2 motoring which is already second to none, and by May 2013 average emissions across the range were just 116.3g/km.

From launch the 308 will be available with five petrol and HDi diesel engines, all offering class-leading fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. The line-up includes the 1.6-litre HDi 92, which has CO2 emissions of just 93g/km.

Meanwhile from spring 2014, 308 will include the 1.6-litre HDi 120 with CO2 from 82g/km in BlueHDi guise along with the debut of a new three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine – the 1.2-litre e-THP with a choice of 110 or 130bhp plus next-generation six-speed automatic gearboxes.

Peugeot also promises improved levels of dynamic ride and handling quality across the range, thanks to new low-weight suspension components combined with the advantages from the new EMP2 chassis, which include reduced weight, shorter overhangs, lower centre of gravity, electric power steering.

Four trim levels are on offer – Access, Active, Allure and Feline – with the entry-level Access model offering air conditioning, remote central door locking, cruise control with speed limiter, DAB digital radio, LED daylight running lights and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Active model adds to this with standard dual zone air conditioning, electric handbrake, rear parking sensors, integrated 9.7-inch touch screen and satellite navigation.

Extra features on the Allure comprise full LED headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, a reversing camera and front parking sensors.

Meanwhile the top-of-the-range Feline model includes a panoramic Cielo glass roof, Alcantara trimmed sports seats and the Driver Assistance Pack with driver assistance and safety devices comprising: Dynamic Cruise Control, Emergency Collision Alert and Emergency Collision Braking System.

The new 308 starts customer deliveries on 4th January 2014.