Peugeot 308 Buyers Guide From its Reliability, Warranty, Features, Models Cost & More | 01 July 2024

Whether you want a compact family Hatchback for commuting to work, taking the family out, or simply enjoying a drive on the weekend, the new Peugeot 308 is clearly a car that gives you what you need, and in this buyer's guide to it, we will answer all the questions you may have about its reliability, price, features, models and more before you decide to purchase one.

Top Features of the Peugeot 308

• ☑ Very efficient PureTech engines and BlueHDi diesel options give you better fuel economy and lower emissions.
• ☑ Advanced i-Cockpit with a compact steering wheel for an engaging driving experience.
• ☑ Large 9.7-inch touchscreen with very easy-to-use controls and connectivity features.
• ☑ Keyless entry and start, allowing you to easily get going.
• ☑ Reversing camera and front parking sensors for easier parking.

Table of Contents

• What is a Peugeot 308?
• What Cars Compare to the 308?
• History of the Peugeot 308
• Exterior
• Boot
• Interior
• What Peugoet 308 Models Are Available?
• How do the Different Peugeot 308 Models Differ?
• 308's Engines
• Plug-in Hybrid & Electric Engines
• Paint Colours
• Alloy Wheel Options
• Upholstery Options
• PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®
• Compact Multi-Function Steering Wheel
• Safety and Driver Assistance
• Electric Driving Modes
• How Fast is a Peugeot 308?
• How Much Can a 308 Tow?
• Dimensions & Sizes
• Reliability
• Peugeot 308's Warranty
• Pricing
• How Does the Peugeot 308 Handle on the Road?
• Peugeot 308 Final Thoughts
• Test Drive a Peugeot 308

What is a Peugeot 308?

A Peugeot 308 is a small family car that first hit the roads in 2007, as it was first introduced as a replacement for the Peugeot 307 - and has since become one of the most popular models from the French automaker with over 2.4 Million units sold since launch.

What Cars Compare to the 308?

The 308 was designed to compete with other hatchbacks, such as:

• Ford Fiesta
• Volkswagen Golf
• Honda Civic
• Renault Clio
• Toyota Yaris
• Hyundai i30
• Peugeot 208
• Kia Ceed
• Seat Leon
• Vauxhall Astra
• BMW 1 Series
• Mercedes-Benz A-Class
• Mini Cooper
• Skoda Fabia
• Nissan Leaf

But, with its sales volume, you can see it puts it towards the top of the pack when it comes to most sort after Hatchbacks sold.

History of the Peugeot 308

Over the years, the 308 has undergone several updates to keep up with advancements in automotive technology, with the first version launching in 2007

Second Generation

The second generation, which launched in 2013, brought us a new platform that reduced weight and its improved handling along with more efficient engines and a sleeker, more modern design as well.

Third Generation

In 2021, Peugeot launched the latest version of the 308, which includes some of the most advanced cutting-edge technology such as a digital cockpit and enhanced connectivity features while also offers a hybrid version as well.

Exterior

When it comes to the exterior, the Peugeot 308 gives us a noticeable silhouette which is very visible from every angle due to its athletic and sleek lines.

Front

The front features a very determined grille and a long bonnet, and the new Peugeot badge is clearly displayed on the radiator grille.

With the front headlights also offering you a very contemporary lighting that looks good in either the day or night as well.

Rear

At the rear, you get a very powerful finish with its lowered roof line, which also improves your aerodynamics and fuel consumption at the same time, along with the modern lighting setup that includes either compact full LED lights or 3D LED lights - which are standard on the GT version.

Roof

For the roof, you can get gloss black roof bars - standard on the GT trim - which really do add noticeability to the car's body style as well.

Boot

When it comes to the boot space, this is also very practical as the boot offers you a minimum capacity of 608 litres, which can expand up to 1,634 litres thanks to a 40 / 20 / 40 split folding rear seat design.

For added convenience, the 308 SW can also include an optional electric tailgate on GT versions, which operates via a foot sensor under the bumper, which really helps you to get access to the boot when your hands are full by automatically opening the rear door for you.

Interior

The comfortable interior of the Peugeot 308 is designed with ease in mind, as when you step inside, one of the first things you will notice is how the cabin will make every journey enjoyable.

For instance the first thing you are greeted with i As you step inside, is the Peugeot i-Cockpit, as well as a very intuitive and compact steering wheel, a high-mounted instrument panel, and a large responsive touchscreen display - all which are in easy arms reach of the driver.

Seats

The seats in the 308 have also been clearly crafted for support and comfort and are upholstered in quality materials with the option of leather in higher trims as well.

Furthermore, the seating positions are adjustable, along with ample headroom and legroom, which make the 308 suitable for all sizes, providing you with a very comfortable ride even on longer journeys.

Technology

Technology is also clearly at the forefront of the design in the new 308's interior, as the central touchscreen is very easy to use, gives you all the connectivity features with your phone you could want and also supports Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto® out of the box.

Infotainment System

Your navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings are all managed through the Infotainment system, which gives you a very responsive interface and modern easy-to-interact with icons.

Storage

The Peugeot 308 also really focuses on practicality when it comes to the storage options available as it features numerous storage compartments and cup holders, a sizable glove compartment, and door bins that can easily accommodate bottles and small items.

What Peugeot 308 Models Are Available?

The new Peugeot 308 comes in 3 models the:

How do the Different Peugeot 308 Models Differ?

The 3 Peugeot 308 models differ in a number of ways such as:

Peugeot 308 Standard Features

As standard, the Peugeot 308 comes with:

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Braking Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Braking Assistance)
• Airbags: Adaptive driver and front passenger airbags (includes passenger airbag deactivation function)
• Airbags: Driver and front passenger side airbag
• Airbags: Front & rear curtain airbags
• Alarm (Thatcham Category 1 approved)
• Automatic door locking when moving off
• Automatic hazard light activation upon heavy brake application
• Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
• AVAS: Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System. Generates a sound when travelling at low speed, audible outside the vehicle for pedestrian safety. Standard on Electric and Plug-in HYBRID versions
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEBS3) with radar featuring night function for pedestrian and cyclist detection is now standard on the 308 range
• Child locking functionality on rear doors
• Deadlocking
• Driver attention warning
• Electronic code immobiliser
• ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) with Hill Start Assist
• Exterior temperature indicator with ice warning
• Front and rear disc brakes
• Front optimised safety headrests and rear retractable headrests (x3), height-adjustable
• Front three-point retractable seatbelts, with force limiters
• Intelligent Speed Adaption
• Isofix child seat fittings (x2) in the second row
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Locking wheel nuts
• Programmable cruise control and speed limiter
• Puncture kit
• Seatbelt unfastened on the move with audible and visual alert for front and rear seats
• Speed limit & traffic sign recognition and recommendation
• Tyre pressure sensors

Peugeot 308 Active

The Peugeot 308 Active comes as the entry-level 308 model and offers you a good balance of value and features, as it comes equipped with features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system, and rear parking sensors.

The Active model is also ideal for those who are looking for a practical hatchback, as its features can include the following:

For engine options, this model can come with either:

• Petrol
• Hybrid
• Diesel

The following features come as standard with the Active model:

Comfort & Convenience

• Automatic air conditioning
• Electric, heated and power fulding door mirrors with LED indicator & approach lighting
• Electric parking brake
• Parking sensors – rear
• PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® with 10" digital instrument panel display
• Centre consule with two cup hulders

Interior Features

• New multi-function split leather & gloss steering wheel
• Seating: driver and front passenger comfort seats
• Seating: ‘Renze’ Tri-Material cloth seat with ‘Zeyphyr’ grey stitch detail
  • Driver manual lumbar adjustment
  • Manual height, slide and backrest adjustment (driver and passenger)

In-Car Entertainment

• USB Socket (x2) front including 1 USB-C
• Voice recognition (radio, navigation and telephony features)

Exterior Features

• 16" ‘Auckland’ alloy wheels
• Rear lower bumper grained black ‘diffuser effect’ trim
• Grained black rear cluster connecting strip (Hatchback only)

Lighting and Visibility

• EcolED headlights
• LED daytime running lights
• Visibility pack:
  • Automatic headlights
  • Automatic windscreen wipers with ‘Magic wash’
• Rear full LED PEUGEOT signature ‘Claw effect’ lights
• Manual headlight position corrector/adjustment

Peugeot 308 Allure

Stepping up to the Allure, as a buyer, you will receive a more enhanced level of comfort and technology over the base Active model.

This mid-range model includes more upgraded features such as dual-zone climate control, Adaptive Cruise Control, and additional safety technologies like lane-keeping assist.

As a result, the Allure is designed more for those who desire more comfort and a richer set of features without stepping into the premium GT model, as it strikes a very good balance between cost and the features available.

For engine options, this model can come with either:

• Petrol
• Hybrid
• Plug-in Hybrid
• Full Electric
• Diesel

The following features come as standard for the Allure model, with the Active features added on top:

Safety and Security

• Active Safety Brake (night function, cyclists & pedestrians) - Electric & Plug-in Hybrid only

Comfort & Convenience

• Automatic air conditioning with AQS 3 (Air Quality System)
• Peugeot e-Remote Control (Electric & Plug-in Hybrid)*, control the charging program in your car’s heating remotely.
• Dark tinted rear side and tailgate windows
• Heated Steering Wheel (Electric only)
• Visio Park 1: 180° Colour Reversing Camera
• Drive mode selector
  • Eco mode & Sport mode (Petrol, Diesel & Electric)
  • Electric, Hybrid & Sport modes (Plug-in HYBRID)

Interior Features

• Seating: driver and front passenger comfort seats
• Seating: ‘Falgo’ Tri-Material with ‘Isabella’ leather effect and cloth seat trim with Mint stitch detail
  • Driver manual lumbar adjustment
  • Manual height, slide and backrest adjustment (driver and passenger)
• Heated Front Seats (Electric only)
• Ski Hatch – central armrest with cup holder
• Sun Visors with concealable mirrors & LED lighting

Exterior Features

• 17” ‘Halong’ diamond cut alloy wheels
• 18” ‘Ottawa’ diamond cut alloy wheels (Electric only)
• Front grille with horizontal chrome stamping
• Rear lower bumper gloss black ‘diffuser effect’ trim with chrome detailing
• Gloss black rear cluster connecting strip (Hatchback only)

In-Car Entertainment

• USB Socket (x2) rear including 1 USB-C
• PEUGEOT customisable i-Toggles®
• Connected 3D Navigation: includes TomTom® Live updates (6 months free subscription trial)^
• New PEUGEOT i-Connect® (Activated by using ‘Ok PEUGEOT’)

Lighting and Visibility

• PEUGEOT Smartbeam - High beam assist
• PEUGEOT signature LED daytime running lights

Peugeot 308 GT

The Peugeot 308 GT, however, represents the top-of-the-line 308 you can buy, with its sportier stance and enhanced performance, as it includes a more sport-tuned suspension system, with more powerful engine options and distinctive styling elements similar to the GT-line - such as a unique grille and larger alloy wheels.

Inside, the GT gives you sports seats, a higher grade of material finishes, and additional driver assistance systems, for those seeking a dynamic driving experience which is also combined with luxury and advanced features - the GT model is the best choice within the 308 range that you can choose to buy.

For engine options, this model can come with either:

• Petrol
• Hybrid
• Plug-in Hybrid
• Full Electric
• Diesel
  
  

308's Engines

For engine options, the Peugeot 308 offers you a range of very efficient and powerful ones, making it a great choice for different driving needs, from the more powerful engines and sport seats being more ideal for track days and those that want the best they can buy from this range - to the more comfortable seating and less powerful engines for instance being more suitable for the daily commuters, the choice is yours.

Petrol, Hybrid and Diesel Engine Options

For its Petrol, Hybrid and Diesel Engines, you have a few choices such as:

Plug-in Hybrid Engine Options

For its Hybrid Engines, you have a few choices, such as:

Pure Electric Engine Options

For its Pure Electric Engines, you have a choice of:

Plug-in Hybrid & Electric Engines

The Peugeot 308 Plug-in Hybrid is available with two engine options - the Hybrid 180 e-EAT8, which features a Puretech 150 engine combined with an 81 kW electric motor, while the Hybrid 225 e-EAT8 pairs a Puretech 180 engine with the same electric motor.

This engine configuration provides you with a combined power output of either 180 hp (110 kW) or 225 hp (132 kW), delivering a very lively and responsive drive as a result.

Battery

The Peugeot 308 electric and hybrid engines use a Lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 12.4 kWh and a power output of 102 kW.

The battery also comes with an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty, which also guarantees that you will get 70% of its original capacity over this period as well.

EMP2 V3 Platform

Built on the EMP2 V3 platform, the 308 electric models can benefit from the weight reduction and optimal balance this platform brings which can also not only preserve space giving you, your passengers and luggage more interior space; but, also improve the range you can get from the batteries.

308 Charging

Both the 308 full Electric and Hybrid models come with a lot of flexibility when it comes to how you can charge them. For instance, you can choose from three main modes such as Domestic (AC) - using a 1.8 kWh socket for a full charge in 7 hours and 5 minutes - or standard 7.4 kWh charging from a wall box for a full charge in 3 hours and 50 minutes at home, and it can also support DC fast charging, allowing you to charge up at commercial charging stations from 20% - 80% in as little as 30 minutes.

Regenerate Battery Charging

The Peugeot 308 Electric & Plug-in HYBRID features exclusive touches like 'E' & 'Hybrid' badging, and energy flow information on the touchscreen, along with the added 'e-Save Function' which allows you to save or regenerate battery power based on transfering power generated from when you break to your battery for later use during your journey, which can further increase your range as a result of implementing it.

Paint Colours

When it comes to the Peugeot 308's paint options, this can offer you a variety of paint colours to suit your personal style and preferences, so whether you prefer classic shades or bold, vibrant hues, there is a colour option available for your individual tastes.

These can include, for instance:

• Olivine Green
• Cumulus Grey
• Nera Black
• Okenite White
• Selenium Grey
• Obsession Blue
• Elixir Red

Alloy Wheel Options

For its alloy wheels, the Peugeot 308 offers you a great selection of very stylish alloy wheels to enhance the look of your Hatchback.

For instance, you can choose from various designs and sizes, depending on the model you decide to buy, to complement your personal taste, such as:

• 16” ‘Auckland’ alloy wheels (ZHF3)
• 17” ‘Halong’ Diamond cut alloy wheels (ZHUF)
• 18” ‘Ottawa’ Diamond cut alloy wheels (ZHZ1)
• 18” ‘Kamakura’ Diamond cut alloy wheels (ZHUJ)
• 18” ‘Portland’ Diamond cut black alloy wheels (ZHUN)

Upholstery Options

For its Upholstery options, the Peugeot 308 offers you a good selection of high-quality upholstery options to choose from, which have all been designed to enhance your comfort and style as well as the car's interior looks.

So, whether you prefer classic fabrics or luxurious leather, there is an option to suit every taste, such as:

PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®

The Peugeot i-Cockpit® really is an integral part of Peugeot’s design philosophy, and this is clear when you get inside yourself, as the Peugeot i-Cockpit® includes several key elements designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable and intuitive.

One of these standout features, for instance, is the configurable 10.0" Heads-up digital instrument panel, as this high-resolution screen is positioned really well to suit your (the driver’s) line of sight by providing you with essential information without requiring you to look away from the road to see it.

The panel can also be customised to display a variety of information, ensuring that you can access the data you need the most easily and safely.

Some of the available display modes also include:

• Connected Navigation
• Driving Aids
• Radio/Media
• Energy Flow (for Electric and Plug-in HYBRID models)

Personal Mode

Additionally, there is a "Personal" mode that allows you to configure the display to your preferences, which gives you that extra level of comfort and personalisation as well.

Compact Multi-Function Steering Wheel

The compact multi-function steering wheel in the Peugeot 308 has also been redesigned, as its smaller size - compared to its predecessors - improves the visibility of the instrument panel and helps to increase your driving ability when driving - especially around corners.

Steering Wheel Sensors

This steering wheel includes sensors that can also detect your grip, which is particularly useful when using driving aids like Adaptive Cruise Control and the car knowing that you still have control over the vehicle.

Steering Wheel Controls

The steering wheel also features controls for the:

• Radio
• Media
• Volume
• Telephone
• Driving Aids
• Voice Recognition

All of which makes it very easy to manage various functions of your car without taking your hands off the wheel.

Heated Steering Wheel

For added comfort, a heated steering wheel option is also available on the GT versions and comes as standard on Electric versions - ensuring that you get a very pleasant driving experience, especially on those cold winter mornings.

Safety and Driver Assistance

For safety features, the 308 comes packed full of them, including:

Active Safety Brake System

The Peugeot 308 is equipped with an Active Safety Brake System - which is standard on all versions.

This intelligent system is designed to avoid collisions - or limit their severity - by reducing your speed, as it activates if you do not react quickly enough by braking for you to try to avoid an accident from occurring if it detects one may be about to.

The system can do this as it can identify obstacles such as other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists automatically, and working out their distance to your car.

Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function (ACC Stop)

Standard on GT and pure Electric versions, the Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function (ACC Stop) allows the car to use the steering wheel itself to control and maintain a safe speed and distance from the vehicle ahead by automatically adjusting the vehicle’s speed to keep a safe distance.

Lane Keeping Assist

With Lane Keeping Assist, this system helps you maintain the car's position within its lane, and if the system detects that you are unintended departing your lane, it alerts the driver with a visual warning and applies corrective steering to keep your car in your lane - which helps to prevent lane drift from occurring.

Long Range Blind Spot Detection

Optional from the Allure upwards, the Long Range Blind Spot Detection system uses Ultrasonic sensors to monitor areas up to 75 meters around the car.

An LED light on the side mirror then alerts you to the presence of a vehicle, motorbike, or bicycle in the blind spot, helping you to not accidentally drift into their lane, preventing an accident.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Optional from Allure upwards again, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert system warns you of obstacles in your blind spots while you are reversing.

It does so by using rear corner radars, which can detect approaching vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians - all of which make reversing safer and really easy.

Full Matrix LED Headlights Technology

Standard on GT versions, the Full Matrix LED Headlights provide you with a contemporary and high-tech lighting solution, that allow the headlights to automatically adapt to traffic in front of you - while giving you the best lighting possible without dazzling other road users by automating the high and low beam function for you automatically.

Electric Driving Modes

The Peugeot 308 gives you a good selection of driving modes to suit your needs. For instance, you can choose from:

Hybrid Mode - available with Hybrid models

In hybrid mode, the 308 will alternate between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine to get you the best mileage possible.

This mode then optimises your energy use, combining the best of both power sources to provide you with a very smooth, efficient, and long-range drive.

This mode is more ideal for everyday driving, as it offers you a balanced mix of power and fuel economy by doing so.

Electric Mode

Electric mode allows for 100% electric driving with the hybrid models, and this mode is perfect for short trips and city driving, where zero emissions are most beneficial - especially in congestion charge areas.

Sport Mode

With Sport mode you can utilise the full power of both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine, which delivers you maximum performance at the cost of your total range.

This mode is designed for more responsive driving, and is perfect for those times when you want to enjoy the full capabilities of your Peugeot 308 really.

How Fast is a Peugeot 308?

The Peugeot 308 offers impressive performance. Depending on the engine and trim, you decide to buy the Peugeot 308, which can reach different maximum speeds and acceleration times.

For instance, the maximum speed of the Peugeot 308 ranges from 129 MPH to 130 MPH, which still provides you with more than ample power for both city driving and motorway cruising.

On the other hand, the 1.2L PureTech 130 EAT8 and the 1.5L BlueHDi 130 EAT8 models both achieve a top speed of 130 mph.

Acceleration

When it comes to acceleration, the Peugeot 308 really does showcase its capability by accelerating from 0 to 62 MPH in times ranging from 9.7 seconds to 11.8 seconds - depending on the specific model and engine configuration you decide to buy.

For example, the Hybrid 180 e-EAT8 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 7.5 seconds, while the 1.2L PureTech 130 EAT8 takes 9.7 seconds.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is also a strong point for the Peugeot 308, as the fuel consumption varies with different driving conditions, offering you an average of 43.9 MPG to 51.5 MPG combined.

The Carbon Dioxide (CO²) emissions range from 121 to 147 G/Km, which is really quite low.

How Much Can a 308 Tow?

The Peugeot 308 is great not only in terms of performance and comfort but also in its towing capabilities, which can vary depending on the specific model and engine configuration you decide to buy.

For both the Peugeot 308 Hatchback and the 308 SW (Estate version), the maximum braked trailer weight is 1,500 KG, which is sufficient for towing small to medium-sized trailers, making it ideal for activities such as camping, carrying small boats, or transporting additional luggage via a trailer especially.

Tow Ball Weight

The maximum tow ball weight for the Peugeot 308 is set at 70 kg - which is important to consider when attaching a trailer to ensure that you get a safe and stable towing.

Dimensions & Sizes

The Peugeot 308 also offers you a lot of space and practical dimensions, making it a more than suitable car for both city and rural driving alike.

Some of its core dimensions consist of:

Reliability

The Peugeot 308 has been recognised globally for its outstanding design and performance, and its reliability is backed up by the very impressive amount of cars it has sold over its lifespan - over 2 million.

Below is a list of some of the awards the Peugeot 308 has received, which factor in its reliability in determining them:

• European Car of the Year
• Auto Express New Car Awards - Compact Family Car of the Year
• Red Dot Design Award
• What Car? Car of the Year
• Auto Zeitung - Best Compact Car
• Women's World Car of the Year
• Green Car of the Year
• Carbuyer Best Car Awards - Best Family Car
• German Car of the Year - Compact Class
• Auto Best - Best Buy Car of Europe
• Fleet News Awards - Best Lower Medium Car
• Car of the Year in Switzerland
• Top Gear Magazine Awards - Family Car of the Year
• Auto Express Driver Power - Best Compact Car
• Auto Trader New Car Awards - Best Car for Families

Peugeot 308's Warranty

When you purchase a Peugeot 308, you also benefit from a comprehensive warranty that can provide you with peace of mind and ensure your car remains in excellent condition as a result.

For instance, the Peugeot 308 comes with a standard manufacturer warranty of 2 years or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers any manufacturing defects, ensuring that your car performs reliably throughout the initial years of your owning it.

In addition to the standard warranty, Peugeot offers an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty on the traction battery for hybrid and electric models. This extensive coverage guarantees that the battery retains at least 70% of its original capacity during this period.

Pricing

For pricing on the Peugeot 308, please see our dedicated pricing page.

How Does the Peugeot 308 Handle on the Road?

The Peugeot 308 is praised, as you can see in the awards it has won, for its excellent handling and driving ability, along with being very reliable.

The compact multi-function steering wheel also provides you with precise control, while the well-tuned suspension system ensures that you get as comfortable a ride as possible no matter the road surface you are driving on.

Furthermore, the car’s lightweight construction, steering wheel design and aerodynamics features also contribute to its agility and stability as well.

So, to answer the question of how it handles, whether you are driving in the city or on the motorway, the 308 delivers you a smooth and enjoyable driving experience really well - making it a pleasure to drive as a result.

Peugeot 308 Final Thoughts

As you can see, the Peugeot 308 stands out as a well-rounded and great Hatchback (or Estate if you want to buy the 308 SW trim) that really does meet the needs of a wide range of drivers - as you will find out when you step inside.

With its very stylish and modern design, advanced technology, and efficient engine options, the 308 really does give you a compelling package for those seeking a modern and reliable family car.

Test Drive a Peugeot 308

Happy with what you have read and want to test drive the 308?
Then come down to one of our Peugeot 308 dealerships near you today to experience this car firsthand.