PEUGEOT'S new 308 SW - the estate version of the current 308 - will for the first time be available with plug-in hybrid technology when sales start early next year.

The new 308 SW measures 4.64m long - 6cm longer than the previous version, and has been lowered by 20mm, with a height of 1.44m.

Compared to the new 308 hatchback, the new 308 SW comes with a 55mm longer wheelbase, with the rear overhang 21cm longer for improved boot volume.

Load volume capacity in the new 308 SW is 608-litres, extending to 1,634-litres with the rear seats folded. The new 308 SW comes with a two-position boot floor, which helps improve capacity. The load area also comes with a 12V socket, with LED lighting and two storage nets and bag hooks.

GT Premium models come standard with an automatically opening tailgate, which can be activated by sweeping the foot underneath the bumper or via the key fob.

To make it even more versatile, the new 308 SW comes standard with a three-part rear seat configuration (40/20/40 split) and has a system to instantly fold the rear row by using two controls easily accessible from the sides of the boot.

The three independently folding rear seats improve the 308 SW's versatility, with the vehicle able to accommodate items up to 1.85m long.

A key development is the small steering wheel, which features sensors to detect the driver's grip levels when using driving aids. Ergonomically designed, it also includes fingertip controls for the radio, media, telephone and driving aids.

The new 308 SW will be available with the latest semi-autonomous features*, including semi-automatic lane change: the driver suggests a lane change manoeuvre by setting the direction indicators. The system performs a semi-automatic lane change manoeuvre if appropriate conditions are met and confirmed by the driver.

The system suggests to the driver that they adapt their speed (acceleration or deceleration) according to the speed limit signs. With curve speed adaptation - at speeds of up to 112mph the set-up optimises the car's speed according to the severity of the bend.

The two plug-in hybrid powertrain options from launch include the HYBRID 225 - a combination of an 180hp PureTech petrol engine and an 81kW electric motor mated to an automatic gearbox. It emits as little as 26 g/km of C0âand up to 36 miles of 100 per cent electric range.

The HYBRID 180 combines a 150hp PureTech petrol engine and an 81kW electric and automatic gearbox, with emissions from 25g/km of C0âand up to 37 miles of 100% electric range.

The new 308 SW will also available with a 1.3 litre petrol engine and 1.5 litre diesel engine.