2015 Peugeot 308 Allure Auto Review – Much, Much, Better Than You Think
The Skinny: Talk about coming out of left field – Peugeot’s 308 has absolutely surprised us for its capability and appeal. A ‘Golf clone’, it has real verve at the wheel and a very smart, snug interior. If it had Volkswagen’s ad budget, it would be galloping out of dealerships.
Peugeot has added new drivetrains and new models so there are plenty of pickings for the fussy Francophile. Two problems: one, the competition is fierce; two, the Peugeot brand is a bit invisible so buyers may not be aware of this very competent car, nor that it should be added to their ‘short list’.
That’s reflected in modest sales for the capable 308. But, with a more enthusiastic distributor behind the brand, and a new capped-price service program, the time is ripe for the jump to something foreign.
Vehicle style: Small hatchback
Price: $31,842 (plus on-roads)
Engine/trans: 110kW/240Nm 1.6 4cyl petrol | 6spd automatic
Fuel Economy claimed: 6.5 l/100km | tested: 7.8 l/100km
OVERVIEW
You may think buying French makes you stylish or trendy or even sexy, but seriously, you’re just different. I know. I used to have a Peugeot 404.
But behind the badge, Peugeots today are in fact little different. There’s an engine at the front, six-speed automatic transmission, a wheelbase around 2700mm and five doors. Could be anything.
What sets the 308 apart is the way it’s bolted together and the outcome on the road.