This is the third time this year that I've test driven the Peugeot 308 and each time I've been impressed by what this lion has to offer. The last time I drove one I was impressed, but after getting my hands on the automatic I can now confirm that it's probably been my favourite test drive of 2014.
That's quite a bold statement really, but let me clarify why I like it so much. It's not because it's the most powerful car I've driven this year, because it's not, I've had faster and more powerful. Nope, what pushed it over the line for me is the fact that it is an incredibly refined vehicle.
Everything in the automatic model is in its right place. The style of the exterior oozes class, the interior is stunning (I was driving the “Allure” trim vehicle), with everything pretty much accessible through the touch screen of the Peugeot i-Cockpit. Even the tiny steering wheel has won me over.
The engine of my most recent test drive was a 2.0L HDi engine, and this handles the 150bhp available to it perfectly. This car will give you 0-100kph in a not-too-shabby 8.6 seconds. The automatic gearbox is very precise and this, coupled with the fact that it is nearly as economical as the manual version (combined fuel economy of 4.1 litres per 100km), just sealed the deal for me.
No car is without its flaws however. The handling of this vehicle could do with a few minor tweaks. There is a bit of sway on windy roads, but take it on the motorway or a straight road this is a lovely cruiser.
When I first test drove the 308 it was at the Irish launch of this car, and I was very much impressed by it, but the five speed manual was lacking that extra gear. Put in the sixth gear or enjoy the automatic and this car is an absolute joy.
Despite any of its flaws though it is for me a deserved winner of European Car of the Year 2014, and it has really raised Peugeot in my estimations. This is a vehicle they are, and rightfully should be, proud of.
In terms of price the 308 range starts from €21,715 (308 Access trim – 1.6HDi 92hp) and goes up to €29,895 for the Allure trimmed automatic model I was testing. The automatic falls into tax band A3 and will cost €190 per annum to tax at today’s rates.
The CBG.ie verdict
As I've said before, if I was to choose my favourite test drive from 2014, this would be it. It is an affordable business-class vehicle. Go with the Allure trim and you will be impressed by the comfort. Let's hope that the French manufacturer can keep up this great work.
Read our other Peugeot reviews here: http://www.cbg.ie/cbg-official-reviews/peugeot/all-models/new-cars-reviews/
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