Peugeot 308 I (4A/C) (2007 – 2013)

Reliability score : 5.8/10

The Peugeot 308 Generation I (internal code 4A/C) was introduced in 2007 as the successor to the highly successful but dynamically flawed 307. Built on the same PF2 platform, it offered a significant leap in interior material quality, sound insulation, and overall refinement. The design featured Peugeot's signature 'shark mouth' grille and an expansive glass area, including an optional panoramic roof. A major facelift (Phase 2) occurred in Spring 2011, bringing a more subdued front fascia with LED daytime running lights, improved aerodynamics, and the introduction of the 'e-HDi' micro-hybrid (stop-start) technology. While the 308 Mk1 is praised for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and excellent rust protection, its reputation is heavily marred by the catastrophic reliability of the BM

✅ Strengths

Excellent ride comfort and suspension tuning
High-quality interior materials for its era (soft-touch plastics)
Spacious cabin with a large boot (348 liters) and great visibility
Outstanding fuel economy on diesel engines
Very strong rust and corrosion resistance
2.0 HDi and post-2011 1.6 HDi 8v engines are highly durable

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the Prince petrol engines (VTi/THP)
Early 1.6 HDi 16v engines are prone to terminal turbo failures
Heavy curb weight blunts performance and increases brake/tire wear
Spongy and vague manual gearshift feel (5-speed especially)
Electrical gremlins (BSI unit, frequent bulb blowing)
Heater matrix prone to clogging (blows cold on passenger side)

🎯 Verdict

The Peugeot 308 Mk1 is a car of extremes. If you buy a petrol version (VTi or THP) or an early 1.6 HDi 16v, it can easily become a financial nightmare due to severe design flaws. However, if you opt for a post-2011 facelift model with the 1.6 HDi 8v or any year with the 2.0 HDi, you get a highly comfortable, practical, and economical hatchback that represents excellent value on the used market. Avoid the petrols entirely unless you are in a market where the older TU5/EW10 engines were sold.