Peugeot 308 2026 facelift: what changes and when it arrives

Four years have passed since Peugeot launched the third-generation 308. Back then, it stood out thanks to its more upmarket styling, the debut of the brand’s new badge, and a notably comprehensive tech package.

Now, with the Volkswagen Golf still setting the pace in the class, the “lion brand” is already lining up an update for its French hatchback - and we’ve “caught it” in Spain while it was undergoing dynamic testing.

What can we expect?

The test cars aren’t wrapped in full camouflage. Instead, only the front and rear are covered, which is typically where the key visual tweaks are concentrated during a facelift.

Even if the disguise makes it hard to be certain about every change, it appears the Peugeot 308 could adopt split headlamps for the first time - separating the daytime running lights from the main lamps - a solution that’s very fashionable right now.

The front grille is also expected to be revised, likely moving closer to the look of its “brother”, the Peugeot 3008, with a wider shape and the brand badge positioned prominently in the centre. The front bumper should also gain a more contemporary design.

On the subject of the new brand emblem, it remains on the 308’s side panel too - a detail that brings to mind a well-known Italian brand… However, there’s nothing new here, with attention now turning to the rear.

Compared with the front, the changes at the back should be subtler. The rear lights are expected to keep the same design and proportions, as is the rear bumper, although it could still receive small touch-ups to give it a fresher look.

Our “spies” didn’t get a look inside, but updates are anticipated there as well, both in terms of design and technology. Rumours suggest the arrival of the i-Cockpit Panoramic, similar to the system introduced on the new Peugeot 3008.

And under the bonnet?

No major surprises are expected for the Peugeot 308 2026 engine line-up. It should continue to offer something for everyone - petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and fully electric options.

At the entry point, the 1.2 PureTech petrol 48 V mild-hybrid unit should remain, producing 145 hp, while the diesel range is still expected to be covered by the 1.5 BlueHDi with 130 hp.

Then there’s the plug-in hybrid, which has recently gained more power (195 hp) and a larger battery (14.6 kWh usable), allowing it to achieve up to 85 km of range (WLTP cycle).

The Peugeot E-308, on the other hand, may be the one to receive changes. Right now, it uses a 54 kWh battery and a 115 kW (156 hp) motor for up to 416 km of range. But we recently saw the brand-new electric version of the DS Nº4, which shares the same underpinnings, arrive with a 58.3 kWh battery and 156 kW (213 hp), claiming up to 450 km (WLTP cycle). Will this option make its way to the E-308?

When will it arrive?

Peugeot has not officially commented on the launch timing for the Peugeot 308 2026, but everything suggests it will be unveiled later this year and reach the market next year.

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