Peugeot 308 Pre Model Access e-HDi with Stop and Start 5dr Car Review - February 2012

The 308 is quite a heavy car meaning that it does feel a little bit bulky when you’re driving, but there is plenty of grip, and roll in the corners is kept to a minimum. The steering is accurate and quick to respond, but the firm ride can become unsettled on the bumpy roads of Britain, and these can be a problem especially when cornering. The driving position is quite good, with plenty of adjustability, but the pedals are too far to the left, and the visibility to the side and rear is not the best.

The 1.6 litre diesel engine performs quite well, but the heavy body means that acceleration from 0-62mph is only achieved in 12.5 seconds. The top speed of 118mph means that once the car gets going, it can travel comfortably and quickly enough for most drivers.

The 308 has a much sleeker look than many of the smaller vehicles made by the company, and the flared bonnet and narrow headlight group does make for a nice front end. The rear end is a little bulbous and reminiscent of the Renault Megane, but the twin exhaust is nicely included around the number plate. Inside the contrast dials are easy to see, and the quality image is one that will attract many people.

The level of equipment included with this 308 is the most basic, but still includes a CD stereo and air conditioning. Electric windows in the rear as well as the front are also an addition that will be welcomed by many people who often have passengers in the rear. The fact that alloy wheels are a £420 extra is disappointing.

Practicality will be one of the reasons why people will opt for a medium sized hatchback like the 308, but those in the back will still find that the legroom is a little too cramped for real comfort. Headroom is good, and those in the front do have ample space, with the 308 also able to deliver a well-sized boot for carrying luggage and other equipment.

The 308 was awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test, and the usual range of airbags including a curtain airbag to protect rear passengers certainly helped in this regard. Driver aids such as traction control, ABS and ESP are all present to help ensure that the car keeps all four wheels on the road, even when weather conditions are far from ideal. Although historically Peugeot may not have been the most reliable brand, their modern cars are certainly helping to turn this reputation around, with the 308 proving to be very reliable.

The list price of £17,765 may leave some people looking at smaller options, but this is on a par with rivals such as the VW Golf and the Ford Focus. The difficulty that many people will find is that those cars do offer a better overall driver experience, and are a little bit more practical.

In terms of the fuel efficiency of this 308, the Start and Stop system certainly comes in handy, helping the car to achieve an average 64.2mpg. The carbon emissions are quite low, meaning that road tax will not be too expensive, and the reasonable insurance group means that premiums shouldn’t be too expensive either. The depreciation levels are fairly typical for cars in this class, and the car is supplied with a three year warranty and a one year roadside breakdown assistance policy, which is standard for all Peugeot cars.