Peugeot 308 Pre Model Active 2.0 HDi 5dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
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List Price: £19,900
Tax Band: E
Insurance Group: 20
MPG: 55.4
CO2: 134
0-62 Mph: 8.8 secs
BHP: 150 BHP
Range: 731 miles
CarSite Verdict:  2.75/5
With an efficient and powerful diesel engine, the 308 Active 2.0 HDi is the pick of the 308 range. Sadly, it's still not good enough to compete with the likes of the Focus and Golf.

PROS:  Good fuel economy, decent performance

CONS:  Firm ride, poor handling, practicality isn't the best

Behind the Wheel

The 308's 2.0-litre diesel engine is the best engine on offer. Developing 150bhp and 251lb-ft of torque low down in the rev range, the 308 2.0 HDi gets from 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 127mph. The engine is reasonably refined and pulls well at low revs.

The handling isn't up to much though. The ride is too firm and the Pug rolls through the corners. The steering feels vague and the 308 is no fun to drive.

Looks & Equipment

The 308 isn't the worst looking car in the world but its grille spoils everything. Just what were Peugeot thinking when they gave their entire range the same grinning face?

The 308 Active is pretty well equipped, coming as standard with alloy wheels, air-con, electric mirrors, electric windows, cruise control, Bluetooth and a CD player with MP3 connectivity. Optional extras include Sat-nav (£735), alarm (£210), leather seats (£1100), and metallic paint (£440). The air-con can also be upgraded to climate control for £290.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The 308 isn't especially practical, offering just 348-litres of boot space. Don't think that Peugeot have pinched space from the boot to give rear passengers more legroom either, because they haven't.

The Pug scored the full five stars in the Euro NCAP tests so it should prove to be very safe but reliability seems to be an issue with owners complaining of mechanical unreliability and interior flimsiness.

Value for Money

At £19,395 The 308 Active 2.0 HDi is one of the more expensive 308s on sale but it is also arguably the best. Fuel economy is excellent at a combined 55.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 134g/km also ensure fairly low road tax costs under VED band E. Group 20 insurance is a little on the high side for a car like this but shouldn't be too expensive.

Peugeot 308 Pre Model Active 2.0 HDi 5dr Car Review - by 
All Peugeot 308 Reviews
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Peugeot 308 SW Access 1.6 VTi 5dr - March 2012
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Medium Family Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Medium Family cars that you can then compare to the Peugeot 308. Here are some popular Peugeot 308 alternatives:

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