Test Drive the New Peugeot 308 | Peugeot

Peugeot 308

Test Drive the New Peugeot 308

Peugeot has fixed the number at the end of its model names, which has grown with each full model change. The new "308" retains the 308 name while being reborn with the latest platform and a downsized 1.2-liter turbo engine, entering its second generation. Already a winner of the European Car of the Year in Europe, how will Fumio Ogawa, who daily drives the previous "308SW," evaluate the new model?

Text by OGAWA FumioPhotographs by ARAKAWA Masayuki

The Charm of Naturalness

Hatchbacks are a French specialty. Looking back, Peugeot's lineage began with the "104" in 1972, and the "205" became a major hit in '83. Thenew "308"launched in Japan in 2014, also follows the rulebook for hatchbacks with a conventional design, free from any eccentricities. Its level of perfection is high, likely a testament to years of experience.

If I had to describe the new 308 in one word, it would be "natural." The engine feel, torque delivery, handling, ride comfort, and infotainment all operate as expected, without resisting the driver's senses. It's a masterful full model change.

The previous "308" had a body size at the upper end for hatchbacks, measuring 4,290mm in length and 1,820mm in width. However, the new second-generation model, equipped with a new-generation platform, clearly demonstrates development under a new concept, including environmental compatibility. The body is slightly more compact at 4,260mm long and 1,805mm wide. Notably, the curb weight has been significantly reduced to 1,270kg from the previous 1,360kg.

What leaves a lasting impression when driving is the engine. With environmental considerations in mind, this model features further downsizing to a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine. This is a significant change from the previous 1.6-liter four-cylinder.

The displacement is considerably smaller. Yet, the maximum torque is 230Nm at 1,750rpm, only a slight difference from the previous model's 240Nm at 1,400rpm.

This new-generation three-cylinder engine offers a superb feel. Even with a short drive, you can feel ample power from the start and during acceleration in the mid-range, with no roughness in the engine's rotation, making it remarkably smooth in both sound and operation.

It's a development that clearly shows evolution.

Peugeot 308

Test Drive the New Peugeot 308 (2)

A Worthy Rival to the Golf?

In Japan, the Volkswagen Golf is likely the rival for the Peugeot 308. Comparing body sizes, the 308 measures 4,260mm in length, 1,805mm in width, and 1,470mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,620mm. In contrast, the Golf is 4,265mm long, 1,800mm wide, and 1,460mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,635mm. They are almost identical in size.

Comparing engines, the Golf also offers a 1.2-liter version (as does the "Polo"), which is a four-cylinder producing 77kW (105ps) and 175Nm of torque. The 308, on the other hand, boasts 96kW and 250Nm, significantly higher on paper. For those who have only experienced BMW (and "MINI") three-cylinder engines, I strongly urge you to experience Peugeot's three-cylinder as well.

As mentioned earlier, the driving feel of the 308 is very pleasant, largely thanks to its excellent engine. Not only on paper, but real-world torque is abundant from low RPMs. The sensation of the car moving forward with a light press of the accelerator is delightful. Utilizing its long stroke of 90.5mm relative to its 75mm bore, the engine provides ample torque at low RPMs, making it easy to drive.

While there's a slight dip in the torque curve around 3,000rpm, maintaining around 4,000rpm using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel allows for a punchy acceleration. The turbocharging control is not strained, delivering power that belies its 1.2-liter displacement.

Intake noise, excessive exhaust noise, and bothersome mechanical noises from the engine bay are absent. Combined with extensive soundproofing, it conveys a strong sense of luxury. For a hatchback in the 2 million yen range, the quality is exceptionally high, rivaling the Golf.

Peugeot 308

Test Drive the New Peugeot 308 (3)

Enjoyable in the City and on Winding Roads

The driving pleasure isn't solely from the engine. Born in Europe, with its many mountain roads, it's no surprise. Although now electric, the steering feels significantly more precise than in the previous model. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has a pleasant feel, with a three-dimensional grip shape and a flat bottom, designed to engage the driver. It embodies the core strength of European cars: a commitment to driving performance.

While the suspension feels slightly firmer than the previous 308, it still absorbs road imperfections smoothly in the city. On highways, the ample torque in the practical range, combined with the long wheelbase, allows for effortless cruising. Meanwhile, the car's responsiveness when turning the steering wheel is beyond expectations.

The new 308's ability to operate smoothly at low RPMs makes it an excellent partner for those who primarily drive in the city. While equipment varies by grade, features like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring are available, ensuring good usability.

Peugeot's strength lies in its attention to detail. A prime example is the dashboard design. The instrument cluster and the section integrating the infotainment display and air vents share an oval-like motif, structured with a two-tiered, architectural approach.

Furthermore, the tachometer, positioned on the right, has its needle moving counter-clockwise. While its practical benefit is questionable, it's an amusing design flourish, reminiscent of the 1970s Alfa Romeo "Giulietta."

However, the meters and various messages are difficult to read due to the steering wheel's placement. It's astonishing, in a way, how they managed to approve this design, prioritizing aesthetics so boldly. Perhaps a more conventional design will be adopted in the next minor change.

Peugeot 308

Test Drive the New Peugeot 308 (4)

Choosing a Car Is Like Choosing a Life Partner

I have been using the previous "308SW" for my family for quite some time. Although a later minor change introduced a six-speed automatic transmission, my car has a four-speed. Furthermore, the sound insulation is insufficient, allowing unrefined mechanical noises from the engine bay to enter, and wind noise from the side windows is also considerable.

Despite these drawbacks, I continue to drive it because of the comfort provided by its soft ride and the functionality of the three independently adjustable rear seats (a SW-exclusive feature). Folding down the center seat's backrest allows for the storage of three pairs of skis inside the cabin. The seatback angle is adjustable, and a charging socket is provided at the shoulder. It's packed with features perfect for a life with hobbies.

The appeal of a practical French hatchback lies not only in its driving performance but also in such thoughtful details. Its daily usability is exceptionally well-considered. These are things you notice when you use it every day.

There are many rivals in Japan. Considering the price starting from 2.846 million yen, the following come to mind:Volkswagen "Golf"(from 2.64 million yen),"Polo"(from 2.284 million yen),"MINI 5 Door"(from 2.98 million yen),Mercedes-Benz "A-Class"(from 2.98 million yen), or"GLA-Class"(from 3.51 million yen),BMW "1 Series"(from 2.99 million yen),Alfa Romeo "Giulietta"(from 3,175,200 yen),Citroën "DS4"(from 3,376,000 yen), or evenLexus "CT"(from 3,661,714 yen). The 308 is a strong contender. The seat comfort is excellent, and the overall quality, including the sound of door closures, has improved to German car standards. The glass roof option is also recommended.

In reality, you grow to love it more the longer you drive it. That's the true essence of the 308 series. While difficult criteria at the time of purchase, it's strangely similar to life itself.

If you've never experienced a French car, why not try living with one for three years? You might not be surprised if that extends to five years, leading to a car life where another French car awaits you.