Car Statistics: Peugeot - 308 Series 01 (3 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

The 308 looks similar to its predecessor, the 307. It's actually a bigger car with slightly fussier styling to create an updated look. But you'd be forgiven for assuming the 308 is merely a facelift - it isn't, this is an all-new car and drives very differently from the 307.

Handling (4 stars)

Sharp steering, plenty of grip and an eager turn in - particularly with the lighter petrol engines under the bonnet - offers fluidity on a twisting road, nippiness and a potentially exciting drive. It's not quite up there with the Ford Focus in terms of chassis dynamics, but doesn't fall far short.

Comfort (4 stars)

Excellent, as long as you specify the smaller 16 inch wheels. The ride becomes increasingly fidgety and unsettled on bigger rims. And fitted with 18s, what seem like small bumps in the road become serious thumps. Otherwise the 308 gives a pliant, relaxing ride - improved damping helping it to soak up lumpy roads with aplomb.

Quality (4 stars)

The whole package looks and feels more upmarket than the old 307. Particularly the cabin where high-quality fixtures and fittings that are tactile to touch and pleasing to look at accentuate French style and elegance. It shares the same quality feel as a Volkswagen Golf, but avoids being dull or oppressive inside with flamboyant must-have extras like the vast glass roof.

Performance (4 stars)

Driving enthusiasts should looks to the BMW-PSA jointly developed engine - the 150bhp 1.6 THP petrol unit, also found in the Mini Cooper S. Its enthusiastic, zesty power delivery suits the 308 best, powering it to 62mph in 8.8 seconds. Don't be taken in by the GT badge on high-end 2.0 litre diesel models, though. With this engine the 308 loses its urgency, feeling reluctant around town, though it offers useful torque if you cover more motorway miles.

Roominess (4 stars)

There's a big boot and plenty of headroom, and the feeling of spaciousness is amplified by that glass roof. But the cabin probably seems bigger than it is thanks to the abundance of light, and rear passengers could find themselves short of legroom if a taller driver's behind the wheel.

Costs (4 stars)

Peugeot has been downsizing engines on all of its cars to reduce emissions, and of course reduce fuel consumption. The three-door 1.6 litre HDi 90 diesel returns a range-best 62mpg thanks in part to specially developed Michelen Energy Saver tyres which reduce rolling friction by 20 percent, saving fuel.

Value (3 stars)

A well-specified, high-end 308 can cost more than £20,000 which is too much to pay for this family hatch. However, the car makes more sense in low or entry spec - as an environmental choice with the frugal HDi 90 diesel engine, or a sporty choice with the 1.6 litre 150bhp engine.

Stereo (4 stars)

The sat nav system is a bit flamboyant with colourful lines curling off round the screen representing roads. It looks good though, is very easy to use though and clear to follow.