PEUGEOT says the new 308 SW will build on the strengths of its predecessor, the 307 SW, and develop them further.

The car's panoramic glass roof is 27 per cent larger and the car has been fitted with a new six-speed manual gearbox.

It will be available in four trim levels - S, SR, Sport and SE -and will replace the 307 SW and 307 Estate range of vehicles, when it is launched next month. The S and SR versions will differ from the Sport and SE versions by the fitting of a steel roof panel and a folding split rear bench seat, instead of individual removable seats and a Cielo panoramic glass roof as found on the Sport and SE versions. At launch the 308 SW will be available with eight engine options - five petrol engines and three HDi diesel engines.

All engines meet the current Euro 4 emission standards and both the HDi 110 and HDi 136 diesel engines are fitted with a diesel particulate filter system.

Sharing the same wheelbase as the 307 SW, but with an increased length of 72 mm and width of 117 mm with the mirrors folded, the 308 SW provides more interior and luggage space than the outgoing model.

To improve the 308 SW's dynamic performance the width of both the front and rear tracks have been increased as well as the rigidity of the body.

Prices will range from £14,395 to £20,845.

Standard equipment on all models includes power steering, driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, curtain airbags, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows, steering column adjustable for reach and rake, radio/single CD player, passenger/driver seat-height adjustment, anti-lock brakes, trip computer, front fog-lights, body coloured door mirrors and door handles, and air-conditioning