Peugeot 306 Hatchback 1.9 XRDT 5d (SR) (1997/P) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Economy
Value
Mine cost me just over 1200 quid (for a 97 P) and is the best money I ever spent on a car. Wish I'd bought one years ago.
Costs
Fuel consumption is about 50mpg and the insurance group is 4. Basic servicing (oil, filters etc..) is easy even for the novice mechanic with some basic tools & a Haines manual. Cam belts should be left to the experts however.
-
On the road
Driving
My last car was a 2 litre injected Sierra Ghia which was no slouch. The 306 TD gives me comparible performance, better handling and miles more street cred at a fraction of the running costs. I'm still waiting for the catch…
Performance
In a word, fantastic! It corners like its on rails and feels capable and responsive on motorways even when full of passengers. I love it.
-
Living with it
Reliability
With regular basic servicing this car will NEVER let you down. The old French diesel is almost bullet proof but beware of head gasket problems if you're buying a "bargain".
Image
I may be biased, but I think the 306 is easily one of the best looking motors on the road. Pininfarina had a hand in the design apparently and it shows. A future classic without any doubt.( Also, you never see a rusty one)
Comfort
At 6'2'' I find the seats a little unsupportive but my friends Escort is much worse. I have read other reviews that suggest poor interior trim quality. Maybe I've been lucky, but my 306 seems completely rattle-free and solidly put together.
-
Security and Service
Security
It's still outside the house! All Peugeots are fitted with a pretty decent alarm/immobiliser. This is reflected in the low insurance grouping. They'll nick my mates Escort first!
Service
Peugeot dealerships are notoriously hopeless so I avoid them. My recent cam belt change was done by a local small garage and is guaranteed for 3 years. All the other basic servicing I do myself.
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
None - 117000 miles and like a watch.
Other
The standard Clarion stereo was rubbish.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes