Peugeot 308 vs rivals
Has Peugeot sprinkled enough magic on its 308 to worry the class leaders? We put the revised car up against VW, Ford and Renault rivals to find out…
It’s been a long time since Peugeot made a splash in the family hatchback sector. Not since the stylish and capable 306 toppled its rivals in the Nineties has the firm had a genuine class leader.
Company bosses hope that situation is set to change with the arrival of the revised 308. It gets a fresh new look and a host of mechanical tweaks, including a hi-tech stop-start system that’s mated to the firm’s frugal 1.6-litre HDi engine.
Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Peugeot 308
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Factor in a spacious interior and an affordable price tag, and the facelifted model has all the ingredients to succeed. But it faces some stiff competition...
Leading the charge is the VW Golf. Our reigning class champ is refined, practical and good to drive. And in BlueMotion Tech trim, it offers fuel-sipping economy. Next up is the Ford Focus, which sets the dynamic benchmark for the 308 to beat. In 1.6 TDCi Titanium guise, it’s also well equipped and refined.
Finally, the Renault Mégane is a tempting proposition with its sleek styling, agile chassis and value for money pricing. So, does the 308 have what it takes to make the Lion roar again?
Verdict
Despite the quality of the field, we found it surprisingly simple to pick a winner – and unfortunately for Peugeot, it’s not the 308. The latest revisions have improved the car’s looks, while its stop-start system is one of the best in the business.
But they can’t mask the hatch’s creaky build, lacklustre handling and compromised driving position. It comes a disappointing fourth. Separating the Mégane and Focus is tricky, as they’re both hugely capable machines. The Renault is great value for money, sleekly styled and has a poised chassis.
However, it’s narrowly pipped to the runners-up spot by the blue oval model. The latest Ford is great to drive, refined, well equipped and solidly built. Only the stiff ride, small boot and poor residuals mark it down.
That leaves one car, as none of our contenders has an answer to the Golf’s incredible talents. There are no significant chinks in its armour. It’s beautifully built, great to drive, practical, economical and a solid long-term investment. It will take something truly breathtaking to steal the family car crown from VW.
