The 308 is a light car, though, with the 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Active model weighing in at just 1,204kg. A few years ago, this is the kind of figure we would have associated with a supermini, and shows the lightweight efficiencies of the new PSA Peugeot-Citroen EMP2 platform that the 308 uses.
The styling does make it hard to take full advantage of the car’s slightly more compact size, though: the back window is narrow and the C-pillars thick, and both compromise rear visibility.
Leg room, head room & passenger space
The Peugeot is rather disappointing for passengers in the rear, as a result of its short length and focus on maximising boot space. The rear doors are big enough, but there could be more space between the front and rear seats; climbing aboard can be a bit tricky. Foot space isn’t great, either, and the low-set rear bench only adds to the tight feel inside.
Getting out can be a struggle, too, particularly if you have bigger feet, and this is one of the few family cars in which adults in the rear may be asking those in the front to slide their seats forward. At least headroom isn’t bad – unless you choose the panoramic roof, that is. That’s worth noting if you’re looking at Active models and above, as it’s a temptingly priced £500 option.
Boot
On paper, the 308 has a very spacious boot, offering 470 litres with the seats up and 1,185 litres once they’re folded. But this is a little misleading, as the shape of the boot doesn’t quite allow owners to make full use of the space. This isn’t the estate-rivalling luggage bay the figures suggest.
The 308 does offer extra hidden space below the load area, which is handy, but it’s a pity this versatility hasn’t been extended to the interior. The glovebox is tiny and the armrest cubbyhole, normally a useful stowage space, is also cramped.
Did you know you can sell your car with Auto Express? Get the highest bid from our network of over 5,500 dealers and we’ll do the rest. Click here to try Auto Express Sell My Car now…