Peugeot 308 SW 1.6 HDi 110 SE

My four month old Peugeot 308 SW 1.6 Turbo Diesel SE spec estate is a far better car than expected having never owned a French built car previously!

The handling and precise accuracy of the very light steering is excellent and compares well to my old VW Golf Hatchback. The ride comfort on motorways and on country lanes alike is relatively soft whilst the cabin noise levels are low but for the expected Michelin eco tyre noise.

The turbo diesel engine and six speed gearbox combination provides ample acceleration, especially at the lower end of the rev range. The vehicle is comfortable in 4th whilst driving in built-up areas and pulls well in 5th gear on rural roads. 6th gear keeps the car moving well at 60 mph plus and provides sufficient power to change lanes / overtake etc without having to change down. The engine / gearbox mix provides excellent fuel economy of 55+ mpg whilst covering the miles expeditiously.

The trim is nice and most of the controls are all well located with ample storage space being provided for all passengers. The seating is certainly comfortable with excellent adjustments being provided for the driver and all passenger positions. The rear seats quickly fold to make a huge load carrying bay. The boot space is ideal for our medium sized dog! The cabin space is light and airy thanks mainly to the panoramic glass roof and dual zone air conditioning.

All in all the 308 SW has the virtues of a good MPV with the handling and comfort of a more expensive luxury estate car. The build quality seems to be very good with no niggling rattles or creeks . . . it looks like Peugeot have upped the game on the 308!