Launched in 2021 as the latest iteration of Peugeot’s family hatchback, the Peugeot 308 marked a bold step forward for the French brand, blending striking design with advanced technology. The third-generation 308 brought with it a fresh aesthetic, a more premium interior, and a suite of safety and connectivity features aimed at attracting both style-conscious buyers and families. The 308 is positioned to compete with established rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Vauxhall Astra, appealing to those in need of a compact family hatchback.
With its sleek looks, well-appointed interior, and range of economical engines, the Peugeot 308 keeps its head above water in a fiercely competitive segment of the market. It combines French design flair with everyday usability, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience, generous equipment and impressive efficiency, particularly in plug-in hybrid form. While the rear space and infotainment controls don’t quite match the best in class, the 308’s overall package is hard to overlook if you’re after a capable all-rounder.
Jack is an experienced motoring journalist who has been covering the latest new-car releases for the last 10 years.
Read bioBrand-new Peugeot 308 hatchback models start from £27,495 for the entry-level Allure Hybrid 145e, with the range-topping GT Premium plug-in hybrid models reaching up to £38,895. The estate (SW) versions cost around £1,200 more, depending on specification.
Across the line-up, the 308 is keenly priced against its rivals, particularly given its generous standard kit and cutting-edge technology.
On the used market, 2021-on Peugeot 308s can be found from around £12,000, with previous-generation models offering even more affordable options for budget-conscious buyers.
For those considering the Peugeot 308, its engine options offer a blend of efficiency and respectable performance across the range. The entry-level 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine with 110bhp achieves 0–62 mph in approximately 10.6 seconds, while the slightly more potent 130bhp version manages the same sprint in about 9.7 seconds. If you opt for the 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel, you can expect a 0–62 mph time of roughly 10.0 seconds.
With the introduction of mild-hybrid technology in 2025, replacing the PureTech units, the 308’s 1.2-litre turbocharged hybrid (145e) accelerates from 0–62 mph in an estimated 9.0 seconds, and the more powerful 1.6-litre hybrid (195e) does so in a swift 7.8 seconds.
At the top end, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models combine a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering 180bhp for a 0–62 mph time of 7.6 seconds and 225bhp for an even quicker 7.5 seconds. Details for the upcoming new diesel engine, expected in mid-2026, have yet to be confirmed. These figures may vary slightly depending on specification and transmission choice, but they offer a clear picture of the 308’s broad performance spectrum.
At the top of the range is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option, available with either 180bhp or 225bhp. These models combine a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, providing brisk performance (0–62 mph from 7.5 seconds) and the ability to travel up to 37 miles on electric power alone. All engines are front-wheel drive, and buyers can choose between manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions, depending on the variant.
The Peugeot 308 delivers a composed, comfortable driving experience, with well-controlled suspension and a quiet cabin even at motorway speeds. The steering is light and precise, making the car easy to manoeuvre in urban settings and confident on faster roads.
The plug-in hybrid models feel especially refined, running near-silently in electric mode and offering strong, instant acceleration when needed.
Visibility is generally good, aided by large windows and, on higher trims, a 360-degree camera and parking sensors, making parking and low-speed manoeuvres straightforward.
Thanks to its advanced EMP2 platform – shared with most medium-sized Stellantis models – the 308 provides a supple ride, absorbing bumps and rough surfaces with ease. The suspension is set up for comfort, yet body control remains predictable and composed through bends. Peugeot’s signature small, square steering wheel gives the car a nimble feel, though some drivers may prefer a more conventional set-up.
Multiple driving modes are available on automatic and PHEV models, allowing drivers to tailor the car’s responses for economy, comfort, or sportiness as desired.
Inside, the Peugeot 308 impresses with its premium materials, sharp design, and a focus on technology. The standout feature is the i-Cockpit layout, with a compact steering wheel and a high-mounted 10-inch digital instrument panel. The 10-inch central touchscreen is standard across the range, incorporating navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a host of vehicle functions. While the system looks smart and is feature-rich, it can be a touch fiddly to use on the move.
The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with plenty of adjustment, and there’s ample room for two adults. Rear space is adequate for adults, though taller passengers may find headroom a little compromised by the sleek roofline. Isofix mounts are fitted to the outer rear seats.
The 308 hatchback offers 412 litres of boot space with the rear seats in place, expanding to 1,323 litres when they’re folded down. Plug-in hybrid models have marginally less space due to the battery, but the load area remains flat and usefully shaped. The boot opening is wide and low, making it easy to load bulky items, and there’s a handy adjustable boot floor for added flexibility. Cabin storage is generous, with large door bins, a roomy glovebox, cupholders, and a central storage compartment.
For those needing even more practicality, the 308 SW significantly increases cargo capacity. With the rear seats in place, the SW offers an impressive 608 litres of boot space, expanding to a cavernous 1,634 litres when the seats are folded flat. The SW also retains a low and wide boot opening, and the adjustable floor adds further versatility.
All Peugeot 308 models come well-equipped, with the entry-level Allure trim including LED headlights, a 10-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, dual-zone climate control, keyless start, and a suite of driver assistance systems. Moving up to Allure Premium adds features such as wireless smartphone charging, navigation, ambient lighting, and additional safety tech. The range-topping GT and GT Premium trims bring sportier styling, Alcantara upholstery, heated seats, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof. Options are available, including a Focal premium audio system and advanced driver assistance packs.
The Peugeot 308 is offered in four distinct trim levels, each catering to different preferences and needs. The entry-level Allure trim provides a comprehensive array of standard features, including six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, driver attention alert, traffic sign recognition, and cruise control.
Step up to Allure Premium and you’ll get additional technology and convenience, with enhanced infotainment, improved connectivity, and further comfort features. This trim appeals to those who want a little more sophistication without moving into sportier territory.
The GT trim shifts the focus towards a sportier aesthetic and feel, incorporating unique exterior detailing and upgraded interior finishes. It includes advanced features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, while also offering striking colour choices and further stylistic enhancements.
At the top of the range, the GT Premium trim combines all the qualities of the lower versions with premium materials, extended safety and driver assistance technologies, and exclusive styling touches.
Personalisation is a key strength, with a palette of striking colour choices including Olivine Green, Vertigo Blue, Elixir Red, Pearl White, and Cumulus Grey. GT models are further enhanced with unique exterior detailing and interior finishes, delivering an upmarket, sporty appearance.
The Peugeot 308 has been awarded a four-star Euro NCAP rating, reflecting strong protection for both adult and child occupants. When tested in 2022, the 308 achieved 76% for adult occupant protection and 84% for child occupant protection.
Standard safety kit includes six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, driver attention alert, traffic sign recognition, and cruise control. Higher trims and optional packs add adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Reliability is strong, with Peugeot’s recent models faring much better in owner surveys than previous models from the French brand.
The PureTech petrol engines return impressive fuel economy, from 44–55 mpg (WLTP), while the diesel can achieve up to 64 mpg, making it an excellent choice for long-distance drivers.
For those considering the plug-in hybrid variants, the 145e model offers a combined fuel economy of up to 217 mpg (WLTP), while the more powerful 195e achieves up to 200 mpg under official testing, though these figures aren’t realistic as they’re based on a fixed test cycle. In real word use, you’ll likely see 50-60mpg depending on driving conditions.
Both models benefit from low CO₂ emissions, making them attractive options for company car drivers and those seeking to minimise running costs.
All of these models cost £195 per year to tax, based on 2025/26 rates.
The plug-in hybrid models are the stars for efficiency, with official figures of up to 281 mpg and CO₂ emissions as low as 24 g/km, qualifying for low company car tax and road tax (VED) of just £10 in the first year. Insurance groups range from 14 to 25, and the 308 comes with Peugeot’s three-year/60,000-mile warranty, with extended coverage available.
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