The Peugeot 308 Mk2 represents a significant turning point for the French manufacturer. After years of struggling with reliability and inconsistent design, this second-generation model—which earned the prestigious 2014 European Car of the Year award—repositioned Peugeot as a serious contender in the compact hatchback segment.
If you are looking for a stylish, premium-feeling used hatchback that offers more character than a standard Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra, the 308 is a compelling choice. However, there are specific mechanical quirks and ergonomic choices you must understand before buying.
🚗 The Driving Experience & Interior
The 308 is defined by its i-Cockpit layout. This design features a small, low-set steering wheel and a high-set instrument cluster.
- The Good: The interior quality is high, offering a more “upmarket” feel than many of its mainstream rivals. The ride is composed, and the handling is agile thanks to the lightweight EMP2 platform.
- The Quirky: The driving position is polarizing. Because the steering wheel sits low, some drivers find they have to move it down to their lap to see the dials, which can feel like “driving a toy car.”
- The Compromise: Peugeot prioritized cargo over passengers. You get a massive 470-litre boot (outperforming much of the class), but this comes at the cost of limited rear legroom. If you frequently carry adult passengers, this may be a dealbreaker.
⚙️ Engine & Transmission Guide
The 308 offers a diverse range of petrol and diesel engines. When browsing the used market, keep these recommendations in mind:
The Best Choices
- Manual Turbo Engines: For the best driving feel and reliability, look for the manual versions of the 1.2 e-THP or the 1.6 THP petrol engines.
- Diesel Efficiency: The BlueHDi diesel engines are excellent for long-distance cruisers, offering a great balance of punchy performance and low fuel consumption.
What to Avoid
- The 82bhp Petrol: Found in the entry-level “Access” trim, this engine lacks the power needed for modern driving.
- The EAT6 Automatic: While convenient, the older six-speed automatic transmissions are generally less refined than the manual alternatives.
🔍 Critical Buyer’s Checklist: What to Look For
Because this model has been on the road for a decade, certain mechanical issues are worth investigating:
- The Rear Axle: Models built up to the end of 2015 may suffer from rear axle damage. Listen for a metallic knocking sound during test drives.
- The Cambelt: Early versions of the petrol engines used cambelts that ran in oil, which could lead to degradation. Ensure any model you buy has had its cambelt replaced according to the service schedule (usually every 10 years).
- Recall History: The 308 has faced various recalls regarding fuel leaks, turbocharger oil leaks, and software issues. Always check the vehicle’s service history to ensure all manufacturer recalls have been addressed.
📊 Trim Levels at a Glance
- Access: The basic model. Includes essentials like air conditioning and cruise control, but uses a traditional handbrake rather than an electronic one.
- Active: Adds 16-inch alloys, dual-zone climate control, and a 9.7-inch touchscreen.
- Allure: A step up with 17-inch alloys, LED headlights, and a reversing camera.
- Feline/GT Line: The premium tier, often featuring Alcantara seats, panoramic roofs, and advanced safety tech like adaptive cruise control.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Peugeot 308 is a sophisticated, stylish, and dependable choice for those who value interior quality and “curb appeal.” It excels as a stylish family car or a long-distance cruiser, provided you can live with the snug rear seating and the unique driving position.
Pro Tip: Don’t overpay. Because the 308 has been a high-volume seller for many years, there is plenty of stock available on the used market. Aim for a well-maintained manual turbo model for the best long-term experience.
