Peugeot 308 news - Figure of 8 - 2007

A few more details on Peugeot's somewhat inbred 308 have emerged, geyser-like, from deepest France. But we're still struggling to garner much enthusiasm for Peugeot's new mid-sized hatch.

Although it's the first Pug of the '8' generation, the 308 doesn't push many boundaries in the looks department, boasting the same aggressive face as its 207 brethren.

But Peugeot reckons that its Focus-rival should be a tidy proposition on the road, thanks to improved aerodynamics and road holding.

There's a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines, including a range-topping 1.6-litre THP petrol unit that puts out 150bhp.

That should be enough to push the 308 on to 62mph in 8.8 seconds, which makes it slower than any of the current-generation hot hatches but quicker than anything in the 307 range. It seems unlikely that we'll see a 308 GTI any time soon, though. 

Topping the diesel range is a 2.0-litre HDI oil-burner, which develops 136bhp while returning over 50mpg.

Any other exciting news? Well, the 308 gets seven airbags fitted as standard, and the option of a manual or an automatic gearbox. So no, not much exciting news.

We'll see if the 308 can ignite our passions when it reaches these shores in September.