The second-generation Peugeot 308 (T9) marked a major turning point for the lion brand. Voted 'Car of the Year 2014', it introduced the modular EMP2 platform, offering significant weight savings (up to 140 kg) and benchmark road handling, combining dynamism and comfort. It also introduced the famous 'i-Cockpit' (small steering wheel, raised instrument cluster, central touchscreen for controls). Restyled in 2017 (phase 2) then slightly updated in 2020 (phase 3 with digital gauges), it achieved immense commercial success. However, while its dynamic qualities are undeniable, its career has been heavily marred by major reliability issues, particularly with petrol engines (PureTech) and diesel emissions control systems (BlueHDi).
The Peugeot 308 II is a brilliant car on the road, but its reliability record is heavily weighed down by hazardous technical choices. If you are looking for a petrol engine, caution is advised: the 1.2 PureTech should be avoided unless the belt has been recently replaced, maintenance is impeccable, and you plan to change the oil every 10,000 km. The 1.6 THP also requires particular attention. Paradoxically, the best choices for this 308 are the older diesels (1.6 HDi 92/115) without AdBlue, or the robust 2.0 BlueHDi (while keeping a budget for the AdBlue tank). To be bought with full knowledge of the facts, with a clear service history being mandatory.