Peugeot 308 Touring
August 2011
When looking at buying an SUV, what most don't realise is that there are viable alternatives on the market. Some of these alternatives are definitely worthy of consideration.
Firstly, why are compact SUV cars so popular? Versatility comes to mind. SUV’s can be driven like a regular sedan or hatch, but it can also be used for that weekend getaway due to its storage space and a general feel of adventure when you’re getting into the car. Also being able to do a little soft road driving is another appeal.
Reality paints a different picture. Most SUV cars never leave the road and are usually occupied only by the driver and only occasionally, with family and a load of luggage or the beach ball, towels and esky. So what is the alternative?
One alternative is the Peugeot 308 Touring. It is a very versatile car that can handle almost all duties that a small SUV could. It should not be taken off road of course, but otherwise is perfect for satisfying an individual occupant or a whole car load of people.
The Peugeot 308 Touring is part of the Peugeot 308 range that has design flare like no other car it competes against. The French styling adds an air of individuality that few can rival.
What makes the Peugeot 308 Touring so appealing?
Looking at the exterior, it does not show the level of space available on the inside. Being as compact as it is, it allows for easy parking and manoeuvring around tight spaces. It does not feel cumbersome to drive. In fact the Peugeot 308 Touring is able to swallow a surprising amount of luggage due to the seat fold down system.
Looking for a new car and need a 7-seat SUV? The Peugeot 308 Touring has got you covered! Yes, it is an available option available with a surprising amount of space. When the extra seats are not needed, you simply remove them to increase the load area space. Believe it or not, there are over 50 seating variations on the 7-seat Peugeot 308 Touring!
This is also a very fuel efficient car. When driven in mostly Sydney traffic, the 60 litre fuel tank of the Peugeot 308 Touring achieved an impressive 672km with 30km distance till empty. Most of the driving had at least one more person and usually with the whole family plus the pram and nappy bags!
Model range and features
Depending on the model selected the Peugeot 308 Touring is well equipped and has plenty going for it. The Peugeot 308 Touring XSE, arguably the best choice has rear parking sensors, power windows, rain sensing wipers, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, auto-dusk sensing headlights, rear-parking sensors and a programmable speed limiter are amongst the Peugeot 308 Touring XSE features.
Under the hood
There is a good choice of engine and transmission choices available depending on the Peugeot 308 Touring model. The most fuel efficient engine is the 1.6l Turbo Diesel available in 6-speed manual. For something more powerful and still very efficient, the 2.0l Turbo Diesel is the choice. Being available in either a 6-speed automatic or manual, it is a great performer around town. The auto has its gear changes programmed very well and you will find yourself in the right gear almost every time. A Turbo petrol 1.6l engine is also available and is the performance choice. While not a rocket it provides great performance around town has plenty of poke for overtaking duties.
How does it drive?
Being the size it is, the Peugeot 308 Touring is an easy car to drive. Most cars these days have very poor rear vision as styling sometimes takes precedence over function. No such problem here, especially with reverse sensors. Parking is a breeze.
There is certainly a sporty flare to the handling, but it is not harsh. As with all front wheel drive cars, under steer does set in during higher speed cornering. Although it is doubtful that many drivers will experience this.
There are plenty of competitors out there, both newly released and established players such as the Skoda Octavia wagon, Ford Mondeo wagon and the Subaru Liberty wagon. None have the 7-seat option and not all have the engine and transmission choices offered by the Peugeot 308 range.
All the more reason to test drive and inspect a Peugeot 308 Touring.