Peugeot 308 (2022 - present) | Expert Rating

Summary

Now in its third generation, the Peugeot 308 is a mid-sized family hatchback and estate car – the latest iteration being the first car to wear the new-look Peugeot badge.

Challenging mainstream rivals like the Ford Focus, SEAT Leon and Volkswagen Golf, the Peugeot 308 is structurally identical to the latest iteration of the DS 4 and is available as a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid model. A battery-powered version, the e-308, is set to arrive sometime in 2023. All models are fitted with an automatic gearbox.

With sharper exterior styling and an upmarket interior trim fitted with Peugeot’s latest on-board tech features and infotainment, the third-generation 308 has received a positive reception from the UK media since its arrival in early 2022 – Business Car describes the new-look 308 as “a vast improvement over its predecessor”, while Auto Express calls it an “accomplished all-rounder with its sights set firmly on the best cars in this class”.

Reviewers often highlight the Peugeot 308 for its wide range of efficient engines and its comfortable and refined cabin. Autotrader adds that a new 308 is a durable choice as well as a sensible one – thanks to the brand’s “strong reputation for reliability”.

“Rivals offer more space and keener handling, though”, What Car? comments, adding that the Ford Focus and SEAT Leon offer more driver appeal and more practicality in the rear. Many UK publications are also not too impressed by the 308’s pricing – explaining that top-spec models don’t offer enough value-for-money – particularly the range-topping plug-in hybrid model.

As of May 2022, the Peugeot 308 holds an Expert Rating of 72%, based on 21 reviews published by the UK media.

Peugeot 308 highlights

Low running costs
Comfortable cabin
Agile handling
Plenty of on-board tech as standard
Intuitive infotainment

Peugeot 308 lowlights

Rear seats rather cramped
Rivals have more driver appeal
Limited model range at launch
No all-electric model until 2023
Top-spec models get expensive

Key specifications

Body style: Medium hatchback and estate car
Engines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £25,270 on-road

Launched: Winter 2021/22
Last updated: N/A
Replacement due: TBA

Image gallery

Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“Peugeot’s posh push is more obvious than ever in the latest 308. It looks and feels like a premium product, while it drives well. There are still a few foibles around infotainment and the i-Cockpit, while you can get much more space in an Octavia. But this is another strong competitor in a sector where you’re not exactly lacking in choice.”
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid GT Premium Estate
Score: 8 / 10
“The new Peugeot 308 SW estate looks great and boasts plenty of tech, but this pricey plug-in model is not the pick of the range.”
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Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“All-new Peugeot 308 goes after the VW Golf with a compelling combination of French style, clever tech and plug-in hybrid power.”
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Model reviewed: 1.2-litre petrol automatic GT Premium estate
Score: 8 / 10
“Blends practicality and French flair in an attractive package that offers a welcome alternative in its class.”
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid Allure hatchback
Score: 8 / 10
“Peugeot reinvents its family hatchback with a sharp new look and the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain.”
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid GT Premium hatchback
Score: 8 / 10
“Perhaps the biggest compliment we can pay the 308 is to say it is a vast improvement over its predecessor and if the items we’ve highlighted can be addressed, and providing you can get on with the driving position, then the 308 hybrid should definitely be on your radar come 2022.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 6 / 10
“The 308 has a huge boot and its technology impresses. Peugeot’s new infotainment system is a huge step up over its previous systems and the i-Toggle widget bar makes it easy to operate all of the car’s cabin functions from the touchscreen.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Peugeot 308 is a comfortable, stylish family hatchback with a great interior but it’s not the most practical.”
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Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 8.2 / 10
“The Peugeot 308 SW is certainly versatile thanks to a big boot and the option of petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid power”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Peugeot 308 is arguably one of the most eye-catching hatchbacks on sale, but its plush interior, intuitive infotainment tech and comfortable cruising ability mean it’s not just a pretty face. Its tiny steering wheel might take some getting used to, though.”
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid Allure hatchback
“The Peugeot 308 is good to drive and good to look at, while being packed with some excellent technology and offering buyers a choice between conventional engines and plug-in hybrids in the same car.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“This plug-in Volkswagen Golf rival stands out thanks to its styling, interior and handling – however, its boot capacity and rear cabin space aren’t class-leading.”
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Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 8 / 10
“Plug-in hybrid power helps the new Peugeot 308 SW offer refinement, efficiency
and a good amount of on-board technology – however, rear cabin space falls short compared to rivals.”
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid hatchback
Score: 8 / 10
“With more than 1.3 million global sales and a European Car of the Year award in 2014, the previous Peugeot 308 could never be accused of being unpopular. It may not have enjoyed the same high profile as its Golf and Focus rivals, but this latest generation of 308 might change all that.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
“The Peugeot 308 gets a significant update as it moves into its third generation – with the handsome new hatchback seeing a new design, new logo, upgraded interior and introduction of hybrid engines into the line-up.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“Smooth new Peugeot 308 challenges the class-leading hatchbacks”
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid 225 GT Premium
Score: 8 / 10
“if it’s drag-strip grunt you are looking for, along with company-car-tax friendly benefit-in-kind, then the Peugeot 308 PHEV will do nicely. It’s a very expensive proposition for private buyers, but if you plug in at every opportunity, it’s also low CO2, low tax and high-style family motoring.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 7 / 10
“Fresh design inside and out, with quality execution, lots of tech and more competent dynamics.”
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Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 7 / 10
“Peugeot has rolled the dice on design, inside and out, which might deter the more conservative elements of the customer base. The rest of us should applaud this creatively emboldened approach, but on top of that there’s quality of execution, lots of tech, and highly competent if not class-leading dynamics.”
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Model reviewed: Hatchback range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Peugeot 308 offers a lot of what family car buyers are looking for, including low running costs, a decent driving style and a comfortable interior. Rivals offer more space and keener handling, though.”
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Model reviewed: Estate range
Score: 8 / 10
“It may lack the dynamic polish of the best in its class, but if you’re looking for a comfortable and classy estate that’s sure to turn heads, the 308 SW deserves a space on your shortlist.”
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