Peugeot 308 turbo - my opinion

Peugeot has been making good head way into the Malaysian market since its launch 3 years ago. The initial model was offered with the 4 speed automatic transmission. Justice was not done to this model as the gearbox was just not suited for the car and was unable to extract the best from the engine.
Having test driven the updated model with 6 speed automatic here is my verdict:-

Handling: - Peugeot cars have always had good handling for a front wheel drive car and it is also comfortable to drive. I didn't notice any difference in handling between the 4 speed automatic model and the newer 6 speed automatic model.
Performance: - the newer 6 speed automatic had better matched ratios which allowed more power to be put to the ground. the engine power was also updated to 156ps which was a welcomed improvement. The fuel economy was said to have improved however i was unable to test this since I didn't own the 4 speed model or the 6 speed model.
Interior: - in typical Peugeot fashion the interior is well laid out and fit and finish is decent.
Exterior: - there were some minor changes to the rear bumper but nothing major.


Overall driving experience: - for the price of the Peugeot 308 turbo it is quite a bargain since no other European model offers such performance or value for this price however, those in the market to buy a European model and has a slightly bigger budget, I would strongly advise them to buy the VW Jetta 1.4 TSI or the Golf TSI. Both these models handle as well as the Peugeot, offer better performance from a smaller engine, offers better fuel economy and better gearbox. Even with the new 6 speed automatic the true potential of the Peugeot 308 1.6 Turbo engine just does not shine. The engine is extremely capable as it has been proven many times over in the Mini Cooper S (with a higher state of tune). The real Achilles' heel for the Peugeot is the gearbox. I am very sure that if Peugeot uses a twin clutch gearbox with good ratios, the car will be much better overall.

I would give this car a 3/5 rating.