Still think Peugeots are boring? Check out the 308 R HYbrid!

After Top Gear shredded the reputation of modern Peugeots in Series 22 (Episode 5), the French car maker has to prove to the general public that they are still capable of producing exciting cars that have been lacking in their range for the past ten years. Recent models such as the 208 GTI 30th Anniversary and the RCZ R developed by Peugeot Sport shows the firm is ready to eschew their reputation of only producing boring cars, and today they have gone the extra mile with the 308 R HYbrid, labelled as the hatchback which drives like a supercar.

Looking at the 308, it is clear to see it was designed with anything but the word 'tame' in mind. The front of the car wears a prominent grill with the pattern resembling a chequered racing flag, a bumper with large intakes featuring chrome accents and a vented hood. Like the original 308 R concept from 2013, the HYbrid features a two tone paint job with a matte black finish at the rear. The sporty styling continues at the back - the aerodynamic spoiler wraps round the rear window and the rear bumper features even more vents!

Now that we have covered the visuals, let's talk about what's underneath the bodywork. The turbocharged 1.6 engine from the RCZ R which produces 270 hp is mated with two 115 hp electric motors for a combined output of 500 hp. 0-60 takes 4.0 seconds and it can cover a standing kilometre in 22.0 seconds. Despite that, the 308 R HYbrid has claimed CO2 emissions of 70 g/km, making it tax exempt and free from congestion charge in the UK.

To ensure the hatchback can contain all of that power, the 308 R HYbrid features 235/35 R19 tyres on a widened track and regenerative brakes featuring 380 mm ventilated discs at the front gripped by four pistons and 280 mm discs at the rear. The electric motors and fuel tank has been positioned to enhance the weight distribution and improve handling.

The issue is that a hatchback of this calibre will be in a market too niche to justify putting it into production, but this sort of technology can set the scene for future hot hatchbacks to come from Peugeot.