Skip advert
Advertisement

Peugeot 3008 vs Merc C-Class

Price also puts hybrid in contention with compact executive cars, so we bring it together with one of the best

At first glance, our second shoot-out might seem like a mismatch – but any company car buyer drawn to the Peugeot’s low running costs might also be considering a German saloon. So how does the HYbrid4 stack up against the Mercedes C-Class?

Powered by a 2.1-litre diesel, the C220 CDI comes close to matching the 3008’s efficiency. It returns a claimed 64.2mpg fuel economy and emits only 117g/km of CO2 if you opt for the smallest 16-inch wheels, all while offering similar performance.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Without a doubt, it’s the more desirable of the pair, and while the Sport in our pictures offers more visual clout than the Elegance car we tested, every C-Class has a dynamic, purposeful stance. That’s partly down to the difference in dimensions, as the Mercedes is 226mm longer and 195mm lower than the Peugeot, and as a result it’s not as flexible inside.

Folding seats are a £250 optional extra, but the 475-litre boot is generous enough, and a longer wheelbase means that there’s plenty of kneeroom in the back, even if the low roofline limits headroom.

Behind the wheel of the Mercedes, you’re surrounded by soft-touch materials, and the interior upgrades that came with last year’s facelift really make their presence felt. The circular colour display housed in the large central speedo is clear and concise, and means you rarely have to take your eyes off the road.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

Fiesta Active

2019 Ford

Fiesta Active

30,273 milesManualPetrol1.0L

Cash £10,133
View Fiesta Active
X3

2020 BMW

X3

41,359 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L

Cash £27,300
View X3
3 Series

2022 BMW

3 Series

40,064 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L

Cash £18,700
View 3 Series
X1

2022 BMW

X1

25,200 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £22,800
View X1

It’s a more driver-orientated set-up than the 3008’s, and is superbly built. While the Peugeot is better-equipped as standard, the HYbrid4’s cabin feels brittle and fussy by comparison. Our only niggle is with the C-Class’ pedals, which are offset to the right due to the awkward foot-operated parking brake.

Another issue with the Mercedes is the extensive options list. The Elegance model we tested came with cruise control, artificial leather and Bluetooth as standard, but the intuitive COMAND navigation system is an extra (at a hefty £1,995) – as are the DAB digital radio (£335) and heated seats (£330).

Advertisement - Article continues below

Another option worth considering is the seven-speed automatic box. Smooth changes mean it’s more relaxing than the automated manual in the 3008, but it dents the Merc’s fuel economy and adds £1,500 to the price.

All this equipment comes as standard on the HYbrid4 Peugeot, but at £28,495, it’s an  eye-watering £4,500 more expensive than the priciest conventional diesel 3008.

Driving through town, you can begin to justify paying so much for the Peugeot’s clever technology – the hybrid powertrain is constantly working, and you can spend long periods with the engine off, nudging gently along using only the electric motor.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

When the diesel engine does fire up, the gruff rumble is disconcerting, especially if you’re used to quieter petrol hybrids, but the harsh ride and poor turning circle make the 3008 feel cumbersome in tight city traffic. The gearbox also hampers the Peugeot’s progress.

Even with the electric motor smoothing changes, it’s unresponsive, and shifts can be jerky unless you’re delicate with your inputs. You have to work harder in the Mercedes, which has long gear ratios for maximum economy, but because it’s narrower and 200kg lighter, it’s the more comfortable and capable car around town.

The C220 CDI really comes into its own on the motorway. The lack of wind and road noise and softly sprung suspension make driving long distances a breeze, and as our in-gear tests proved, the punchy engine means the Mercedes is far better when it comes to overtaking slower traffic.

In contrast, the 3008 is least impressive on the motorway. The electric motor rarely gets used while cruising, and unwanted road and wind noise spoil comfort. It did return better economy than the C-Class, but not by a huge margin.

So if you regularly do long trips, the Mercedes is the wiser choice – yet it’s quite expensive, so this will be a close contest.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £4,647 off RRP*Used from £13,800
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £3,970 off RRP*Used from £8,795
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £4,780 off RRP*Used from £13,850
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,575Avg. savings £1,864 off RRP*Used from £7,850
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport 2025 review: an incredibly capable hot hatch but there's a catch
Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport - front tracking

New Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport 2025 review: an incredibly capable hot hatch but there's a catch

The hottest front-wheel-drive Golf has sharpened up its act in Mk8.5 form, but it's not as fun as we'd like it to be
Road tests
11 Sep 2025
Farewell Volkswagen ID.4, hello ID. Tiguan
VW ID. Tiguan front 3/4 Avarvarii

Farewell Volkswagen ID.4, hello ID. Tiguan

Heavy update for EV will bring with it a fresh, but familiar, name
News
12 Sep 2025
New Honda Civic facelift 2025 review: subtle tweaks boost its appeal
Honda Civic facelift - front

New Honda Civic facelift 2025 review: subtle tweaks boost its appeal

The Honda Civic was already a great car, but updates for 2025 have elevated it even higher
Road tests
11 Sep 2025