This comprehensive guide explores the metamorphosis of the second-generation Peugeot 308. We will analyze its aesthetic, technical, and technological innovations, and compare them with its competitors. Each section highlights its strengths, weaknesses, and challenges in a highly competitive market in 2025.
- Introducing the new Peugeot 308: a bold renewal
- Aesthetic changes and their impact on design
- Key technological innovations of the 308 II
- Available engines: efficiency and performance
- The interior: ergonomics, comfort, and connectivity
- Driving aids and safety in 2025
- Advantages compared to Renault, Citroën, Volkswagen, and others
- Versions and their price positioning
- Roadmap and future of the Peugeot range
- FAQ: everything you need to know about the Peugeot 308 in its current context
Introducing the new Peugeot 308: a bold renewal
The automotive market in 2025 will see a major renewal with the arrival of the second generation of the Peugeot 308. The French brand is positioning itself more than ever as a benchmark in the precise and innovative compact category. The new 308 redefines its segment by combining a sharp design, cutting-edge technologies, and ergonomics designed for the modern driver.
While its direct competitors, such as Renault with its Megane or Volkswagen with the Golf 8, continue to evolve, Peugeot is making a bold bet by offering a compact sedan equipped with a range of features that restore confidence in the brand’s future. The new Peugeot 308 is now more than just an evolution; it’s a true revolution for those looking for a vehicle that combines style, performance, and safety, while remaining affordable.
With some traditional manufacturers experiencing a mixed market deficit, Peugeot isn’t content to simply keep up, but rather seeks to dominate its market by offering increased sales volumes while consolidating its dynamic and innovative brand image. The 308 stands up to comparisons with its rivals and stands out as an essential choice for those looking to combine modernity and practicality.
Aesthetic changes and their impact on design
The new Peugeot 308 adopts a modern silhouette with more aggressive and aerodynamic lines, marking a clear break from the previous generation. Its style is a blend of elegance and dynamism, notably with its new face marked by a wider grille, integrated with claw-shaped LED headlights, which accentuate the aggressiveness of its lynx-like gaze.
The proportions have been reworked to promote a better center of gravity, notably thanks to a more fluid roofline and a wider stance. At 4.36 meters long, it remains compact but gains in road presence. The front end is strongly inspired by the brand’s sporty world, with a so-called luminous ‘claw’ at the rear, attached to the grille for stylistic cohesion.
Over time, the design of this new 308 has positively influenced the perception of the Peugeot brand, which aims to clearly distinguish itself from Citroën and Renault while not neglecting its German allies such as BMW and Audi. Perceived quality is also enhanced by the use of premium materials and careful surface treatment, both inside and out.
Design
Features
Benefits
Aerodynamic look
Flowing lines, coupé profile
Reduced fuel consumption, greater stability
Wide grille
Distinctive signature, integrated LEDs
Increased visibility, assertive style
Dynamic silhouette
Wide stance, sporty lines
Presence and assertiveness on the road
In terms of innovations, the Peugeot 308 positions itself at the top of the range by integrating a technological suite worthy of the best in the segment. The EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform 2), already used by several PSA Group models, guarantees increased rigidity while allowing for the incorporation of different powertrains, including plug-in hybrids.
Among its new features is the fully configurable digital display system, dubbed Peugeot i-Cockpit 4.0. This interface captures the spirit of sports dashboards, with instrumentation in front of the driver, complemented by a high-resolution central touchscreen. The infotainment platform, i-Connect Advanced, offers extensive connectivity features, voice recognition, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Its driving assistance systems are also impressive, with semi-autonomous driving systems, lane keeping assist, blind spot detection, and automatic emergency braking. The 308’s safety is thus enhanced with every kilometer, notably meeting global safety requirements. Peugeot i-Cockpit 4.0 digital instrument panelAutonomous driving assistance systems
i-Connect Advanced multimedia system
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coCOdAnrJfM
- Available engines: efficiency and performance
- With a strong focus on electrification, the 308 now offers several engine options. At the top of the range, a 180-hp plug-in hybrid version and a continuous electric mode allow for optimized fuel consumption while maintaining performance. The 1.2 PureTech 130-hp gasoline version remains a solid value for those seeking a compromise between efficiency and affordability. Diesel engines, generally neglected in Europe for environmental reasons, remain available but in limited quantities. The EMP2 platform also allows for a fully electric version for 2026, paving the way for the future of the range. The 130 hp GT Line version, paired with a manual or automatic transmission, combines driving pleasure with low fuel consumption.
Power
City/highway fuel consumption
Electric range Plug-in Hybrid 180 hp
| 5.2 l/100 km | 50 km | PureTech Gasoline | 130 hp |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6.5 l/100 km | No | BlueHDi Diesel | 130 hp |
| 4.3 l/100 km | No | Fully electric | To be confirmed |
| To be confirmed | ≥ 400 km | Interior: ergonomics, comfort, and connectivity | Inside, the 308 opts for a modern cocoon with a minimalist dashboard incorporating an optional head-up display and a large central touchscreen. The quality of the materials, often perceived as superior to those of Renault or Citroën, conveys a true sense of luxury. Modularity is also improved: the rear seats fold easily, allowing for increased cargo capacity. |
| Designed for comfort, the cabin benefits from new materials, heated and ventilated seats, and even massage seats in some high-end models—a winning touch compared to lesser-equipped offerings from Volkswagen or Toyota. Connectivity, via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is optimized for intuitive use. | Storage spaces have not been forgotten, with more than 20 cleverly distributed dispenser compartments, helping every driver stay organized. All of this contributes to a user experience well above the average for compact cars in 2025. | Premium touchscreen | Ergonomic and modular seats |
Advanced connectivity
Luxury options (M-bedienung, massage seats)
Driving assistance and safety in 2025
- The field of safety is evolving rapidly, and the new-generation Peugeot 308 is no exception. It comes standard with several assistance systems, such as facial recognition to instantly adjust the seat position, an advanced lane-keeping system, and 360° obstacle detection, making every journey more stress-free.
- Semi-autonomous driving systems now allow you to navigate the highway without constant intervention. Automatic braking technology in the event of an imminent collision and driver fatigue detection are also integrated. These aids offer real protection for urban driving as well as long journeys, minimizing the risk of accidents.
- Safety Technologies
- Description
Automatic braking
Obstacle detection and instant response
Saves lives and prevents property damage
| Lane keeping assist | Let the car correct its trajectory | Enhanced comfort, more relaxed driving |
|---|---|---|
| Blind spot monitoring system | Vehicle in blind spot alert | Significant reduction in fender-benders |
| Advantages compared to Renault, Citroën, Volkswagen, and others | In a market where competition is fierce, the Peugeot 308 sets a new benchmark. Compared to the Renault Megane, for example, it offers better technology and more intuitive ergonomics, particularly with its modular platform that facilitates customization. Compared to the Citroën C4 or Volkswagen Golf, it stands out for its bold design and its digital driving philosophy. | In terms of reliability and maintenance, Peugeot has built a very good reputation, compared to certain Nissan or Ford models, which have sometimes suffered from higher maintenance costs in recent years. The French brand, moreover, has committed to a more accessible electrified vehicle policy, allowing customers to enjoy a complete range without compromise. |
| For those undecided between these major brands, comparing the offerings shows that the main difference lies in the user experience and the price-performance ratio. The 308 thus has a head start by incorporating the latest innovations without breaking the budget. | Distinctive and modern design | Advanced safety technologies |
Hybrid and electric powertrain options
Good cargo capacity for a compact car
Versions and their price positioning
Available in several trim levels—Like, Allure, GT Line—the Peugeot 308 aims to be accessible while offering a luxury range for the most demanding. The entry-level version, equipped with the 1.2 PureTech 130 engine, remains attractive starting at €25,000, with equipment options that quickly increase the price. Higher-end versions offer enhanced standard equipment (interior trim, premium sound system, advanced driver assistance). The hybrid version, in particular, offers an excellent compromise, with an introductory price of around €35,000, but with numerous technological gifts that encourage purchase. To ensure good value for money, the range is rounded out with leasing offers and regular promotions, making this car accessible to different buyer profiles. Version
- Drivetrain
- Starting Price
- Key Options
- PureTech 130
Gasoline
≈ €25,000
Advanced Connectivity, Aluminum Wheels
Hybrid Plug-in 180
| Plug-in Hybrid | ≈ €35,000 | Multiple Electric Modes | GT Line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline or Hybrid | ≥ €28,000 | Sporty Design, Exclusive Equipment | Roadmap and Future of the Peugeot Range |
| By asserting its position in 2025, Peugeot plans to continue innovating in line with this second generation. The brand is working on a fully electric version starting in 2026, while strengthening its hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines to meet increasingly stringent environmental standards. | Other models, such as the new-generation Peugeot 208, will also participate in this movement. The general trend is to make Peugeot a global brand, directly competing with Toyota in terms of electric vehicles and Mercedes-Benz in the affordable luxury segment. With a strong focus on sustainability and technical sophistication, the future looks promising for the 308, which could become an undisputed leader in its category. | FAQ: Everything you need to know about the Peugeot 308 in its current context | What is the main difference between the 2025 308 and the previous generation? |
| The new 308 incorporates a more modern architecture, with a bold design, an advanced technology package, and a range of electrified powertrains, making it a very competitive compact car against the VW Golf or Renault Megane. | How much does a plug-in hybrid version of the Peugeot 308 cost? The plug-in hybrid version starts at around €35,000, with options and packages that can increase the price depending on the trim level chosen. | What is the main advantage of this new 308 compared to the competition? | Its balance of style, technology, and price remains its major strength, with a user-friendly and safe driving experience often surpassing its direct rivals. |
Can we expect an all-electric version soon?
Absolutely, the 100% electric version is planned for 2026, with a claimed range of at least 400 km, suitable for both urban needs and long journeys.