Performance:
The six engines include three diesels and three petrols, with outputs from 90bhp to 150bhp. The 110bhp 1.6 diesel is the sweetest and provides the nicest balance, while the 150bhp turbocharged petrol and 136bhp diesel deliver strong performance. There's also a smooth 120bhp petrol engine and a 90bhp diesel that pares private or business running costs to the bone.
Ride & handling:
Unfortunately the 308 falls well short of the class best. Despite having plenty of grip and good body control, it's a heavy car, and always feels cumbersome. The car's overly stiff suspension means that the ride is uncomfortable on anything other than the smoothest roads, while mid-corner bumps have a most unsettling effect on the steering
Refinement:
One or two of the engines, notably the 120bhp 1.6 petrol and the 136bhp 2.0 diesel, are audible when revved, but are never unpleasant or excessive. Tyre noise is only apparent on coarse surfaces, while wind noise is well controlled at UK speeds, too. However, that stiff suspension clunks over even minor bumps.
Buying & owning:
Most models will be sold as company cars, so the 308 is priced to compete in this highly competitive sector. Running costs, especially for diesel models, are generally low, but because 308s will sell in such high numbers, resale values are likely to be weak.
Quality & reliability:
The style of the interior, choice of materials and the way they are put together all represent big steps forward for Peugeot in this class. Now Peugeot needs to ensure that the reliability problems that plagued the 308's predecessor, particularly with the electrics, don't let the side down.
Safety & security:
Five stars out of five for adult frontal crash protection, four for child safety and three out of four for pedestrian protection put the 308 among the top cars in its class, and every model has a minimum of six airbags. Stability control is fitted with three of the five trim grades. Deadlocks and remote locking are standard across the range.
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