Used Peugeot 308: Buyer's Guide
The Peugeot 308 asserts itself as a dynamic and sophisticated contender in the hatchback segment, inviting you to enjoy the journey by wrapping you in a cocoon of style and modern technology. It combines a distinctive, upscale feel with the practical running costs of a mainstream hatchback, delivering a driving experience that balances agility with composure. With a boot capacity of up to 412 litres and fuel economy reaching 65 mpg in diesel models, it delivers a compelling blend of style and substance.
Used Peugeot 308 Popular Trims
| Trim |
Description |
| Active Premium |
A great starting point offering essential features like rear parking sensors, 16-inch alloy wheels, and the impressive i-Cockpit display. |
| Allure |
The sweet spot in the range, adding a touch of luxury with part-leather effect seats, ambient lighting, and connected 3D navigation. |
| Allure Premium |
Elevates convenience with keyless entry and start, plus adaptive cruise control for relaxed motorway driving. |
| GT |
Brings a sporty edge with aggressive styling, 18-inch wheels, and Matrix LED headlights for superior night-time visibility. |
| GT Premium |
The ultimate expression of luxury, featuring a Focal premium Hi-Fi system, 360-degree parking cameras, and heated front seats with a massage function. |
Used Peugeot 308 Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options
| Engine |
Description |
| 1.2 PureTech 130 |
A punchy and refined 3-cylinder petrol engine that is perfect for zipping around town and weekend getaways. |
| 1.5 BlueHDi 130 |
A torque-rich diesel engine designed for high-mileage drivers, providing effortless overtaking power and exceptional fuel range. |
| Hybrid 180/225 e-EAT8 |
Plug-in hybrid options combining petrol power with an electric motor, perfect for low-emission zones and short electric-only trips. |
Running Costs
- Real-World MPG: Expect 40-52 mpg from the 1.2 PureTech and an impressive 55-65 mpg from the 1.5 BlueHDi.
- Road Tax: Annual VED is generally between £180-£195, with hybrids enjoying a slight discount to keep your annual running costs down.
Used Peugeot 308 Practicality
Designed to fit seamlessly into your life, the 308 offers practical solutions with a stylish twist.
- Boot Space: Offers a generous 412 litres of space for luggage, which is one of the largest in the class, expanding to 1,323 litres with rear seats folded.
- Estate Option: The SW model is a true load-lugger, increasing boot capacity to 608 litres, ideal for families or carrying larger loads.
- Easy Loading: The boot opening is wide and accessible, making it easy to load bulky items, while the split-folding rear seats allow for flexible load-carrying options.
Used Peugeot 308 Key Features
Key Features:
- i-Cockpit: Peugeot's unique dashboard layout with a compact steering wheel and high-mounted instrument cluster for a focused drive.
- 10-inch Touchscreen: Standard on all models from 2018, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep you connected.
- Rear Parking Sensors: Essential for easy parking in tight spaces and preserving your bumper.
Desirable Options:
- Panoramic Glass Roof: Floods the cabin with light, making the interior feel more spacious and airy.
- Focal Hi-Fi System: Delivers crystal-clear sound for music lovers who want a concert-hall experience on the move.
Used Peugeot 308 Reliability Rating
The Peugeot 308 has shown improved reliability in recent years, particularly with the 3rd generation, ensuring it is as dependable as it is desirable.
What to Check on a Test Drive:
- Infotainment System: Check that the touchscreen responds quickly to your touch and connects to your phone without issues.
- Gearbox Operation: Ensure the EAT8 automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and without hesitation, particularly when cold.
- AdBlue System: On diesel models, verify there are no warning lights related to the AdBlue emissions system.
Used Peugeot 308 Safety Rating
Drive with confidence knowing you and your passengers are well protected.
- Euro NCAP: Awarded 4 stars in 2022, with strong scores for child occupant protection (84%).
- Advanced Tech: Features like blind-spot monitoring and lane keeping assist act as an extra pair of eyes on the road.
Awards for the Used Peugeot 308
- 2022: Women's World Car of the Year - Urban Model.
- 2014: European Car of the Year.
Who is the Used Peugeot 308 Best For?
- Commuters: The efficient diesel and hybrid engines make it cost-effective for daily travel.
- Style-Conscious Drivers: Those who want a car that reflects their personality and stands out from the crowd.
- Keen Drivers: Buyers who appreciate a responsive chassis and engaging steering feel.
Key Alternatives to Consider:
- Volkswagen Golf: Offers a slightly more polished driving experience and higher resale values.
- Ford Focus: Renowned for its sharp handling and engaging drive, though the interior feels less premium.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Peugeot 308
How does the Peugeot 308 i-Cockpit improve the driving experience?
The i-Cockpit is designed to enhance driver focus and comfort by placing essential information directly in your line of sight.
- Ergonomics: The compact steering wheel sits lower, allowing you to view the instrument cluster over the rim rather than through it.
- Visibility: The high-mounted digital display projects speed and navigation data closer to the road view, reducing eye fatigue.
- Control: The smaller wheel diameter provides a more agile and responsive steering feel, making the car feel nimble in corners.
Is the Peugeot 308 compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, the Peugeot 308 offers seamless smartphone integration to keep you connected on the move.
- Standard Connectivity: All models from 2018 onwards feature a touchscreen system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Wireless Functionality: Newer models (2021 onwards) introduce wireless connection capabilities, removing the need for cables.
- Voice Control: You can use voice commands to manage calls, music, and navigation without taking your hands off the wheel.
What type of charging cable does the Peugeot 308 Hybrid use?
The Peugeot 308 Hybrid uses industry-standard cables for convenient charging at home or public stations.
- Type 2 Connector: The vehicle is equipped with a Type 2 socket, the European standard for AC charging.
- Home Charging: A standard 3-pin domestic plug cable can be used, though a dedicated wallbox is recommended for faster speeds.
- Public Charging: Most public AC chargers are compatible with the Type 2 cable, allowing you to top up while parked.
How long does it take to charge the electric Peugeot 308?
Charging times for the electric Peugeot 308 vary depending on the power source available to you.
- Rapid Charging: Using a 100kW DC rapid charger, the 54kWh battery can charge from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
- Home Wallbox: A 7.4kW home wallbox will fully charge the battery in around 7 hours and 30 minutes.
- Domestic Socket: Charging via a standard 3-pin plug is possible but will take significantly longer, making it best for overnight top-ups.
Does the Peugeot 308 offer adaptive cruise control on all models?
Adaptive Cruise Control is a sophisticated feature available on selected trim levels within the Peugeot 308 range.
- Availability: It is typically standard on higher-spec trims like the GT and GT Premium.
- Functionality: The system automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Stop & Go: On models with automatic transmission, the system can bring the car to a complete stop and restart it in traffic.
What are the main differences between the Peugeot 308 hatchback and SW?
The primary difference lies in the body style and the amount of cargo space available.
- Boot Space: The SW (Station Wagon) offers a larger boot capacity of approximately 608 litres compared to the hatchback's 412 litres.
- Wheelbase: The SW features a longer wheelbase, which translates to increased legroom for rear passengers.
- Versatility: The SW's rear seats fold flat to create a cavernous load area of up to 1,634 litres, ideal for larger items.
Is the Peugeot 308 suitable for long motorway journeys?
The Peugeot 308 is well-suited for long-distance driving, offering a blend of comfort and efficiency.
- Ride Comfort: The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps effectively, providing a smooth ride on motorway surfaces.
- Refinement: High levels of sound insulation keep wind and road noise to a minimum, reducing driver fatigue.
- Efficiency: The 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engine is particularly efficient for high-mileage drivers, capable of achieving 55-65 mpg.
How do I update the infotainment system in my Peugeot 308?
Keeping your infotainment system up to date ensures you have the latest features and mapping data.
- Over-the-Air: Newer models (2021 onwards) with the i-Connect system can receive updates wirelessly over the air.
- USB Update: For earlier models, updates can be downloaded to a USB stick from the official Peugeot website and installed manually.
- Dealer Service: Your local Vertu Motors dealership can also check for and install any available updates during a service.
What warranty coverage comes with a used Peugeot 308?
Purchasing a used Peugeot 308 from Vertu Motors provides peace of mind regarding the vehicle's condition and warranty.
- Manufacturer Warranty: Cars under three years old will still be covered by the original manufacturer's warranty (typically 3 years/60,000 miles).
- Battery Warranty: Hybrid and electric models come with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty specifically for the traction battery.
- Extended Warranty: We offer a range of extended warranty options to provide continued protection after the manufacturer's cover expires.
