Peugeot 308 Hatchback: 4 Powertrains And Full Review

The Peugeot 308 stands out in the competitive family hatchback segment with its daring aesthetics and modern powertrain choices. Built on an updated EMP2 platform, it offers petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric variants, catering to diverse driving needs while prioritizing refinement over outright sportiness.

Eye-Catching Exterior Design

The 308’s front fascia grabs attention with sharp LED headlights that sweep upward into the bonnet, paired with a bold grille that gives it a premium, almost predatory look. Sleek lines flow along the sides, accentuated by muscular wheel arches and alloy wheels ranging from 16 to 19 inches depending on trim. At the rear, full-width LED taillights create a modern signature, enhancing its road presence without excess bulk.

Measuring around 4.36 meters long, the 308 strikes a balance between compactness for urban maneuvering and sufficient length for family duties. Its low stance and aerodynamic shape contribute to a low drag coefficient, aiding efficiency across all powertrains. Available in vibrant colors like Vertigo Blue and Okenite White, it appeals to buyers seeking something beyond the conservative designs of rivals like the Volkswagen Golf or Skoda Octavia.

Premium and Innovative Interior

Step inside, and the 308’s cabin feels like a step upmarket. A panoramic glass roof floods the space with light, while high-quality soft-touch materials cover the dashboard and doors. The standout feature is the compact steering wheel paired with a customizable digital instrument cluster, positioning gauges directly in the driver’s line of sight for safer, more intuitive driving.

The 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system runs Peugeot’s i-Cockpit software, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. Lower trims get physical climate controls, while higher GT models add massaging seats and a Focal premium audio system. Rear passengers enjoy decent legroom for adults on shorter trips, though headroom is tighter for the tallest.

• Key interior highlights: 3D digital cluster, customizable ambient lighting, ergonomic small-diameter wheel.
• Storage solutions: Deep door bins, central armrest cubby, and wireless charging pad.
• Build quality: Mix of leatherette, Alcantara, and piano black finishes rivaling German competitors.

Versatile Powertrain Lineup

Peugeot equips the 308 with a broad spectrum of engines, all paired exclusively with automatic transmissions for seamless efficiency. Entry-level PureTech petrol units start with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo producing 130hp, accelerating from 0-62mph in about 9.7 seconds and returning over 50mpg in mixed driving.

The 1.5-liter diesel excels on motorways with quiet operation and low running costs, ideal for high-mileage drivers. Plug-in hybrids combine a 1.6-liter petrol engine with an electric motor for up to 37 miles of EV-only range, slashing emissions for company car users. The E-308 electric model uses a 54kWh battery, offering around 220 miles of range and rapid charging capabilities.

Driving Experience: Comfort Meets Competence

Behind the wheel, the 308 prioritizes a supple ride that soaks up road imperfections, making it a relaxed cruiser for long hauls. The steering is well-weighted with decent feedback, though it lacks the razor-sharp precision of a Ford Focus. Body control is composed during spirited cornering, but the suspension can feel unsettled over rapid successive bumps.

Petrol and diesel models handle everyday duties with agility enhanced by a 140kg weight reduction over predecessors. Hybrids add some heft but maintain poise, while the E-308 delivers smooth, instant torque for urban zipping. Noise insulation is excellent, with minimal wind or tire roar at highway speeds.

Practicality and Everyday Usability

While stylish, the 308 trades some practicality for design flair. Boot space measures 412 liters with seats up, expanding to 1,323 liters folded—adequate for groceries and weekend gear but trailing the Golf’s 381/1,237 liters. A high liftover height and non-flat floor hinder bulky loads.

Front seats are supportive with good adjustment, including lumbar support in mid trims. Rear space suits children or average adults, but rivals like the Seat Leon offer more. Towing capacity reaches 1,200kg for petrol/diesel, dropping for electrified variants.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 308 earns a five-star Euro NCAP rating, bolstered by standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. GT trims add night vision and 360-degree cameras. These features integrate seamlessly without overwhelming the driver.

Trim Levels, Pricing, and Value

Starting at around £30,000 for Active trim, prices climb to £42,000 for GT plug-in hybrids. Allure adds 17-inch alloys and keyless entry, while GT brings adaptive suspension and heated seats. Leasing deals often undercut rivals, with strong residuals supporting used values.

• Active: 16-inch wheels, 10-inch touchscreen, cruise control.
• Allure: Wireless charging, reversing camera, privacy glass.
• GT: 19-inch wheels, Focal audio, dynamic matrix LED lights.

Rivals and Market Position

The 308 competes with the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Kia Ceed. It outshines in style and interior wow-factor but lags in rear space and boot capacity. Against the BMW 1 Series, it offers better ride comfort at a lower price.

Ownership Costs and Reliability

Service intervals are every 12,500 miles, with capped-price servicing available. Hybrids and EVs benefit from low BIK tax rates. Peugeot’s reliability has improved, backed by a three-year warranty extendable to five. Resale values hold firm thanks to distinctive looks and tech.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Peugeot 308 reliable?

Recent models show strong dependability ratings, with fewer issues than older Peugeots. Owner surveys praise build quality.

What’s the boot space like?

412 liters seats up, suitable for family shopping but not class-leading.

How efficient is the plug-in hybrid?

Up to 37 miles electric range and 256mpg WLTP combined, ideal for short commutes.

Is the E-308 a good electric choice?

Yes, with 220-mile range and quick charging, it’s competitive against the ID.3.

What’s the towing capacity?

Petrol/diesel: 1,200kg braked; hybrids/EV: lower at 600kg.