Peugeot 308 1.6 turbo Allure Review: French boost

What we like:

Much improved gearbox

generously sized cabin

well-equipped for its price

What we dislike:

Too much unwanted body movements

not exactly very quick for a 1.6 turbo model

Inside, the updated 308 features less obvious changes and improvements when compared to the exterior tweaks. The dashboard is shared with the CC as well as the RCZ, which is not a bad thing indeed as it is made from soft, high quality plastics and materials. The only changes over pre-facelift models are limited to a new Bluetooth audio system as well as new instruments with white dials and a new, sportier looking steering wheel.

The driving position is much better than in many other French models thanks to a variety of adjustments for the seat and steering column. Only the tallest will complain about the seat for not being low enough even in its lowest height setting. Utility wise, there are a variety of storage spaces inside the car to store odds and ends like the large door bins, the compartment under the front seats and so on. The glove compartment on the other hand, seems to be devoid of useable space. At the rear, passengers will enjoy leg and headroom that is up there with the class best. The boot also a well-shaped load area that is flat and deep – it should be useable enough for common chores.

In Allure trim, the 308 turbo offers a well-equipped package indeed. It comes standard with a panoramic glass roof, dual zone climate control, trip computer, electric folding wing mirrors, ESP, six airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounting points, LED daytime running lights, automatic headlamps and wipers as well as a factory fitted stereo system.

The updated 308 turbo is a much-improved car thanks to its new six-speed box and refreshed looks, making it an even more credible alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen Golf and Opel Astra.

Credits: Story and photos by Raymond Lai