Used Peugeot 308 review: 2008-2011

The choice car buyers have today would have been unbelievable even just a few years ago. No one could have envisaged the number of makes and models now on offer in our market.

Buyers now have the choice of a vast number of locally produced and imported cars, among them the Peugeot 308. The French carmaker launched the front-wheel drive 308, the replacement for its 307 small car, in 2008.

It was available as a hatch and wagon, came with a choice of two petrol and two turbo-diesel engines, and with rather steep pricing slotted into the premium end of the small car class alongside cars like the VW Golf. The distinctively styled 308 was larger and sleeker than the outgoing model, it had a stiffer body, and with its wider track it had a larger footprint on the road.

Inside, the cabin was pleasant and appealing, and packed with plenty of features, like climate-controlled air, cruise control, a trip computer, power front windows, a chilled glovebox and a couple of cup holders. It was also quite roomy with comfortable seats, and front and rear seat passengers enjoyed good head and legroom. Beyond the cabin, there was a reasonable boot with a full-size spare under the cargo floor.

Peugeot's opening engine offer was a modest 88kW 1.6-litre petrol engine, which delivered decent performance if it was revved. For more grunt there was also a punchy turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, which upped the available output to 110kW.

On the diesel side there were also two options: an economical 80kW 1.6-litre turbocharged unit and a more powerful 2.0-litre turbo engine that gave 100kW. There was a choice of manual and automatic transmissions and the final drive was through the front wheels. On the road, the 308 offered quiet and refined motoring. It rode comfortably, handled well and delivered pleasing performance.

NOW

The steep pricing of the 308 meant it was never going to be a runaway seller. It was a car that mostly appealed to rusted-on fans of all things French, and those willing to try something different.

It's the same in the used car market. It mostly appeals to anyone who likes French cars, and others wanting to stand out from the crowd. That can be a disadvantage when you're trying to sell, but can be a useful bargaining tool if you're buying. Owners generally praise the quality of the fit and finish of the 308, and appear impressed with the reliability and driveability.

They also praise the performance and feel of the brakes, but are not quite as impressed when they have to replace rotors at around 40,000 km, which seems to be their average life. If you observe the steering wheel wobbling or vibrating when braking it's likely that the disc rotors need replacing.

We have also had reports of oil leaks and electrical problems, so a visual check of the engine and transmission is warranted, and it's worth checking all of the electrical systems to ensure they are working

The 308 has been subject to a number of recalls. In 2012 there was a recall to check that the steering rack mounting bolts had been tightened correctly. Another in 2012 was to check for a software fault that could cause the car stall without warning.

A year earlier there was a recall to check the fuel return pipe and filter support, which was feared could wear through and cause a leak. Another the same year was to check for a faulty valve on the brake vacuum pump that could affect braking performance if it failed.

In 2010 there was one to check headlights and another to check the front seat position sensor. Check the owner's manual to see if the recalls have been done on the car you've chosen to buy. While you are at it check for a service record to confirm that the recommended servicing has been carried out.

SMITHY SAYS

It doesn't set any benchmarks, but is a competent and reliable car that is worth a look.

Peugeot 308 2008-2011
Price new: $27,990 to $38,990
Engine: 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder, 88 kW/160 Nm; 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder turbo, 103 kW/240 Nm; 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 80 kW/240 Nm; 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 100 kW/320 Nm.
Transmission: 4-speed auto, 5-speed manual, 5-speed auto, 6-speed auto, 6-speed manual, FWD
Economy: 5.3 L/100 km (1.6 TD); 7.6 L/100 km (1.6); 7.6 (1.6 TD); 7.1 L/100 km (2.0TD);
Body: 5-door hatch, 4-door wagon
Variants: XS, XSE, XTE, XTS
Safety: 5-star ANCAP