PLUG QUIZ (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Peugeot's third generation 308 offers an interesting but pricey alternative in Plug-In Hybrid form. Jonathan Crouch looks at the latest version.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 77

Peugeot's 308 family hatch looks pricey but appealing in this Plug-In Hybrid 195 e-DSC7 form. You can also have a full-EV E-308 model, but the PHEV variant probably makes more sense as an all-round proposition with its now-improved 49 mile EV range capability, claimed three-figure fuel cycle reading and notably efficient CO2 return, which offers low BiK tax status. Other brands offer this kind of capability too, but this 308 delivers it with a bit more flair.

Backgroundword count: 117

There's quite a premium to pay if you want your next family hatch equipped with Plug-in Hybrid technology. Is it worth it? That's a difficult question to answer and a lot will depend on the type of driving you do and how frequently you're going to remember the plug your car in. What we do know is that the Stellantis Group of brands offer some of the best PHEV options in this segment, the same technology used in this class with Vauxhall's latest Astra, with the DS 4 and with this car, Peugeot's third generation 308. Peugeot updated this technology in early 2025 with a larger 17.2kWh battery, creating the model we're going to look at here.

Driving Experienceword count: 282

This updated 308 Plug-In Hybrid gets Peugeot's latest-generation more efficient PHEV powertrain. It combines a new version of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a 125hp electric motor, mated to a new seven-speed dual shift clutch automatic transmission. For this 308, this results in a combined 195hp and 360Nm of torque. Drive range from the now-larger 17.2kWh drive battery (only 14.6kWh of which is usable) is up to 49 miles. Rest to 62mph take 7.6s en route to 140mph. The new powertrain comes with a choice of three drive modes, Hybrid, Electric, and Sport. The default mode is Hybrid, automatically managing the alternating or simultaneous operation of the petrol engine and electric motor. To optimise fuel consumption, this mode will prioritise all-electric driving as often as possible. The Electric mode allows driving using only electric power at speeds of up to 83mph, while in Sport the electric power is used to supplement the petrol engine to deliver maximum performance for more dynamic driving. Ah yes; drive dynamics. You might wonder what you're going to get here. After all, the light, agile handling of the standard 308 has to be affected by adding an extra 344kgs of weight brought about by the Hybrid system - doesn't it? If you don't feel the need to weigh your 308 down with the weight of a baby Asian elephant, we'd understand completely; you can certainly feel the difference all that bulk makes when turning into tight corners at speed. But the attraction of being able to drive your 308 for nearly 50 miles without troubling fossil fuel is certainly strong, providing you can stomach the substantial price premium the brand wants for its PHEV tech.

To see the full road test text contact us on 0330 0020 227