Road test: Peugeot 308

Peugeot usually produces good-looking cars but not all have been as robust as they should have been. Now the French car giant aims to change that with its new 308, which has undergone two million test miles during development.

The new car sits on a stiffer and more compact platform and weighs 140kg less than before. The dashboard has been all but cleared of knobs and switches, and a simple but efficient 9.7-inch touchscreen houses all the main functions. Unlike with certain other French cars, the system is easy to use, and combined with Peugeot’s liking for a small, low-mounted steering wheel above which you read the dials, the dashboard looks uncluttered and well made.

Eight engine choices range from 82 to 155bhp and will include 130 and 110bhp 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol units from spring 2014. The 115bhp four-cylinder diesel engine is expected to be a popular choice here, and the car feels willing and robust straight away. The gearbox and electric power steering both feel improved and the LED headlamps work well and look stylish. There is little body roll, thanks to a wider track and lower centre of gravity, and the tally of equipment includes keyless entry, a reversing camera and blind spot assist.

Peugeot claims the new car is so well made it will be “like new” after three years’ use. Only time will tell.

Peugeot 308 1.6 e-HDi 115
6-speed manual
Top speed: 118mph;
MPG: 76.3;
Emissions: 95g/km;
Price: £17,245