By Paul Gover.
Driving the Peugeot 308 is a rare treat in 2023.
It’s a treat because the compact French hatchback is calm, composed and comfortable.
It looks great too, too, both inside and out.
So, why is it rare?
Because French cars are rare.
Because quality compact hatchbacks are rare.
And because cars – of all kinds – are becoming rare in a country where buyers prefer pick-ups and SUVs.
The Peugeot 308 is also set at a premium price point starting from $43,990, which puts it well above something like a Toyota Corolla but significantly below a basic BMW or Benz.
It’s well equipped for the money, with things like leather trim and brilliant matrix LED headlights, and Peugeot has always been a brand – in Australia – for people who want more than transport.
Thankfully, it also has the magic-carpet-ride suspension that’s been common to every Peugeot I have driven, right back to the 404 and even through the sporty 405 Mi16 I once raced – as Peter Brock’s co-driver – in a production car race at Mount Panorama, Bathurst.
The 308 could seem a little under-done in the engine room, as it only has a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine, but it’s been tuned for torque and its excellent economy means it would be a long-distance delight on interstate trips. Peugeot claims 5.3 litres/100km but I was able to slightly better that number on a longer run.
The little triple, with the distinctive syncopated rhythm which comes with a three-cylinder design, is well match to an eight-speed automatic and it’s also easy to take control with paddles for manual shifts.
The body shape and front-end styling sets the 308 apart in the class and it’s the same inside. The design is crisp and clean, the materials are top quality, and the front seats are plush.
There is also good room for kids in the back and and useful boot under the rear hatch, but if you crave more space then the 308 also comes as a station wagon from $50,490.
There are four USB-C sockets for gadgets, but some proper cupholders would be useful.
For me, the car’s dashboard layout – called iCockpit – is just plain wrong. And it has been from the first Peugeot to get it.
Basically, Peugeot believes you should sit the steering wheel – an excellent design with lovely leather – down near your lap to be able to see the clear digital instruments. But, for me and a lot of other people, it puts the wheel far too low from proper control and so you have to compromise on the wheel setting, or the view of the instruments, or both.
But there is a quality 10-inch infotainment screen, all the latest safety tech, a crisp rear-view camera, and quiet and comfy touring.
The Peugeot 308 is not for everyone, but the people who choose one are likely to love it.
PEUGEOT 308
Position: European compact hatchback
Price: $43,990
Engine: 1.2-litre V6 three-cylinder turbo petrol
Power: 96kW/230Nm
Transmission: 8-speed auto, front-wheel drive
Plus: smooth design, quietness and comfort, quality
Minus: silly dash design, not cheap
THE TICK: tres bon
Score: 8/10
