By Tim Pomroy for the Open Road Magazine
2023 Peugeot 308 review
As other carmakers follow the SUV herd, the 2023 Peugeot 308 goes its own way with hatch and wagon options.
While its footprint remains stubbornly small in Australia, Peugeot is one of the oldest and most established car brands globally.
The 300 series, starting with the 301 in the 1930s, has been a big part of its success and the new 308 is now in its tenth iteration.
The 2023 Peugeot 308 arrives in Australia with a small and targeted line-up in a bold attempt to help Peugeot regain its mojo here.
How much does the 2023 Peugeot 308 cost?
In line with recent model revamps, the 2023 Peugeot 308 model mix has been streamlined into two high-spec offerings.
The first is a five-door hatch in GT and Premium, priced at $43,990 and $48,990 respectively.
Riskier is the decision to include a 308 GT Premium wagon – swimming against the tidal wave of SUVs including Peugeot’s own 2008 and 3008 – with a price of $50,490.
A 308 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) hatch will also be added to the range later this year.
2023 Peugeot 308 power and torque
Until the 308 PHEV arrives, all 2003 Peugeot 308 models are powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine (developing 96kW and 230Nm) matched to a conventional eight-speed automatic.
The package delivers a claimed combined fuel consumption of 5.3L/100km.
2023 Peugeot tech and safety
Standard features are generous, with the 3D i-Cockpit with 10-inch colour touchscreen and 10-inch instrument panel a highlight.
The Premium hatch and wagon gain leather trim, heated front seats with massage function and electric operation for the driver, a 10-speaker audio system and an electrically operated tailgate (wagon only).
While the 308 hasn’t received an ANCAP safety rating, Euro NCAP has given the 308 a four-star rating – the lack of a front centre airbag leaving a gap in what’s otherwise a comprehensive safety package.
Over the years, Peugeots have had a reputation for high ongoing ownership costs. The Peugeot team has been chipping away at this problem and the new 308 has a prepaid service pack available for $1000 over three years or $1800 over five, with a five-year warranty – well within the sights of the big volume players in the segment.
Peugeot continues to position itself as an alternative to the mainstream. Offering a wagon is a refreshing change from the wave of emerging cross-over models and we hope it pays off.
2023 Peugeot 308 styling
Visually the new range is sharper than its predecessor. It sits on 18-inch alloys, with a longer bonnet flanked by ‘lion fang’ daytime running lights and a more steeply raked windscreen.
Dimensionally it’s lower, longer, and wider, while the wagon, using the same third-generation EMP platform that underpins other models, has a 55mm longer wheelbase to increase cabin space.
Peugeot’s signature lion’s head badging has been redesigned and sits boldly on the grille.
Peugeot persists with its small-diameter sports steering wheel mounted low and the instrument cluster up high, the idea being it enables the driver to look over the wheel for a less obstructed view. It’s a definite point of difference relative to other makes and, coupled with the 308’s direct, sporty-feeling steering, can take some getting used to.
How does the 2023 Peugeot 308 perform?
The sporty flavour is further embedded in the 308’s general driving characteristics. The diminutive 1.2-litre engine makes the most of its 230Nm from just 1750rpm.
Matched to the fast-action auto, it’s a zippy package with well-thought-out suspension settings. They deliver a nice balance between ride quality and handling, enhanced with 225/40x18 tyres that can often lead to a bone-jarring ride fitted to other brands.
The 2023 Peugeot 308 at a glance
Pros: Standard features in Premium; fuel consumption; 3D instrument cluster
Cons: Tyre repair kit only
