Design & engineering
THE 308 was one of the first Peugeots to use the brand’s EMP2 scalable platform, but for this GTI hot hatch version the set-up has been tweaked by Peugeot Sport to deliver sharper, more focused handling and, importantly, inject a greater sense of fun into the experience.
This stems from the 11mm lower ride height when compared with its regular stablemates, while there are plenty of additional engineering details over the standard 308 that set the GTI model apart.
The first is the engine. It’s a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo unit, but although the 308 might be down on capacity compared with its 2.0-litre rivals here, it actually produces more power, at 268bhp.
The capacity shortfall does mean the Peugeot’s 330Nm of torque is 40Nm less than the competition, but a weight advantage of around 200kg should help here. That’s down to features such as the relatively lightweight 19-inch alloys, while the 308’s big Alcon brakes are lifted from the firm’s now-retired RCZ R coupé and teamed with sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres for strong stopping power. There’s also a Torsen limited-slip differential to improve traction.
The 308’s rivals also have clever front differentials, although the Peugeot misses out on the dual-clutch gearbox in its focused opponents. This trio are the fastest of their respective model lines, but this could work in the 308’s favour here, because the six-speed manual draws you closer to the car and that engine.
It also means the Peugeot is a fair chunk cheaper to buy than its rivals here, at £28,590. Yet you get a level of kit to match the VW and Skoda, including satellite navigation, DAB, cruise control, massaging sports seats and plenty of smartphone connectivity.
THAT brand image undoubtedly has a bearing on the Golf’s residual value; this car will hold on to the most money here.
Our experts predict the VW will retain 47.7 per cent of its list price, at £15,025. By comparison the Octavia, at 45.1 per cent, will be worth £13,075, while the 308 is rated at 41.9 per cent, so will be worth £11,976 after three years or 36,000 miles.