Peugeot e-HDi start-stop now available on 508 and 308

Peugeot Australia has announced the addition of its e-HDi technology to the 308 and 508 ranges.

Coupling a fuel-efficient 1.6 litre turbodiesel with start-stop technology, the e-HDi powertrain delivers significant fuel savings in both urban and highway driving.

 The new turbodiesel engine was specifically designed with the e-HDi start stop system in mind, and produces 82kW and 270Nm of torque. It's also fully compliant with Euro V emissions legislation, and Peugeot says the 308 Hatch e-HDi will sip just 4.5 litres of diesel per 100km on the combined cycle.

The 308 Touring consumes 5.2 l/100km on account of its extra weight, however the 508 sedan drinks the least out of all the e-HDi equipped models - only 4.4 l/100km.

 Aside from automatically stopping the engine when the vehicle is stationary (and re-starting it the instant the driver lifts their foot of the brake), the e-HDi powertrain also features a low-viscosity oil and variable-ratio oil pump that reduce drag on the engine, as well as taller gearing in its six-speed automatic transmission.

Rather than engage the alternator permanently, regenerative braking is used to charge the car's battery. Low rolling resistance tyres are also fitted, and these two measures further reduce drag on the engine during acceleration and cruising, reducing power wastage and boosting fuel economy.

At present, only the 308 Access hatch, 308 Access wagon and 508 Active sedan are available with the e-HDi system. The e-HDi engines cost $3000 less than the existing 2.0 litre turbodiesel in the 308 range, and the 508 e-HDi sedan is $5500 cheaper than the 508 2.0 HDi.

 Pricing

•             Peugeot 308 Access Hatch e-HDi - $29,990

•             Peugeot 308 Access Touring e-HDi - $31,990

•             Peugeot 508 Active e-HDi - $37,490