• Low fuel consumption across the main range
• Faster GTi isn’t abysmally thirsty despite its power
• BlueHDis should be admirably cheap to run

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A big selling-point for Peugeot’s 308 hatchback is its remarkable claimed fuel economy figures – with claims of above 60mpg in the case of the manual 1.5-litre BlueHDi. The BlueHDI 100 claims between 54.9-64.6mpg, while the 130 isn’t far behind at 53.2-62.7mpg. The automatic gearbox is also incrementally worse, showing figures of 52.3-62.1mpg.

Even the largest and most powerful 2.0-litre BlueHDI 180 achieves between 44.9-52.5mpg.

Unsurprisingly, the worst performer in this aspect is the petrol GTi 260, with a claimed combined average 37.8mpg. Still, it’s not unreasonable considering its speed and when compared to rivals with their larger 2.0-litre units and figures in the high-20s to low-30s . Real-world average during testing was in the low 30s in mixed conditions.

Better petrols include the manual 1.2-litre PureTech 110 with its 42.6-51.5mpg (43mpg real world), with the 131hp version close behind at 42.1-51.9mpg (expect 40mpg in the real world). Choose the automatic and this creeps down to 41.2 and 48.5mpg.

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Regardless of which engine you opt for Peugeot 308, CO2 emissions are competitive, and it’s a solid green choice for anyone looking for a family hatchback. Pick a petrol and you can still keep a clear conscience with the 1.2-litre PureTech 110 – this claims 126-149g/km depending on the size of the wheels. The 130 manual ranges between 126-151g/km, while the automatic version creeps up to 133-155g/km. The highest polluter in the range – unsurprisingly – is the GTi 260 with 169g/km of CO2.

The best of the bunch by some margin is the 1.5-litre BlueHDi 100 in six-speed manual gearbox form, which produces 119-135g/km of CO2. The 130 version remains close with 119-139g/km, with the automatic gearbox creeping up to 122-142g/km. Opt for the 2.0-litre BlueHDi 180 with the eight-speed automatic box and this jumps up to 156-165g/km, which is still acceptable for a car that accelerates as quickly as this one.

There are no hybrid, plug-in hybrid or EV versions, and you’ll probably need to wait for the next-generation 308 for those. If it’s anything like the recently-launched 208, it will be offered in petrol, diesel and EV forms. You may have to look at the larger and bulkier 3008 for a plug-in hybrid.

Reliability

• Shares engines and technology with many other cars
• 1.5-litre diesel and eight-speed auto too new
  
• Several recalls listed on the DVSA website

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Peugeot’s reliability is on the up and there is a very noticeable step up in the quality of materials, fit and finish used in this generation of Peugeot 308. The company has made great strides in recent years in terms of quality and dealer service – and that shows in Peugeot’s gradual improvements in recent custimer satisfaction surveys.

Theoretically, as it was launched with a range of tried and tested engines and gearboxes, they should have provided problem-free service. The DVSA website has a number of dozen recalls for the 308, many of which affect several cars in the Peugeot range, rather than just this hatchback. These include fuel and oil leaks, gearbox, starter motor and steering malfunctions, tyres that deflate without warning and doors that open unexpectedly.

The important thing is that Peugeot has identified and fixed these problems – so don’t think that just because there are recalls, it’s not a solid and dependable car. It goes without saying that you should make sure you check when buying a used car that the recall work has been done.