Peugeot 308 GT returns with new transmission

Peugeot’s local arm has confirmed it will roll out a new eight-speed automatic transmission, and the first car to get it will be a new faster version of the Peugeot 308 hatchback.

The new 308 GT model will make use of a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 165kW of power and 285Nm of torque, and this time around it will come with an automatic transmission.

The new GT model will use an eight-speed automatic to channel power to the front wheels, and will no doubt offer more appeal than the six-speed manual ‘box that is the only one available in the hotter, faster 308 GTi model. For the Francophiles, there has been a 308 GT in the past, but it was a turbo-diesel model.

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Kerb weight for this model is set to be 1230 kilograms - very light for the class, and making for a strong power-to-weight ratio, even if the grunt numbers aren’t huge.

While the exact price is yet to be confirmed, we’ve learned that it will be about $40,000 for the 308 GT auto, possibly allowing it a $5000 advantage over the manual-only GTi ($45,990 plus on-road costs).

Also, the new transmission allows the semi-autonomous Park Assist system to engage drive and reverse gears automatically, thanks to shift-by-wire tech.

The adoption of the new so-called EAT8 transmission from Aisin will not be limited to just the sporty 308 GT - it will also be offered in a number of models as a rolling change, replacing the existing six-speed auto.

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Peugeot Australia has stated that the 3008 GT and 5008 GT - both of which are powered by 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engines - will adopt the eight-speed auto transmission “over the coming months”.

The brand claims fuel consumption will decrease by seven per cent as a result of the move to the eight-speed, as it allows the car to use its engine start-stop system at speeds up to 20km/h, and has a coasting function at speeds above 25km/h.

The all-new Peugeot 508 Fastback and Sportswagon models will be fitted with the eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. That car is set to go on sale in August.

The all-new Peugeot 508 range will exclusively use the eight-speed automatic transmission

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Are you excited to see Peugeot's updated models hit showrooms? Tell us in the comments below.