The new Peugeot 308SW comes with up to seven seats and despite ticking many mid-sized MPV boxes, it looks more like an estate car.
Replacing the 307SW, the latest people mover from French giant Peugeot is an interesting car. For many people the idea of a tall, conventional MPV like an Opel Zafira or Renault Scenic sends out all the wrong signals. However, this is not the case with the latest 'Pug' as the SW, with its full length glass roof and lower roofline, allows parents to drive a more subtle take on family motoring.
The 307SW had evolved nicely into a smart looking estate, but the 308SW is a tale of two cars because the front end features the aggressive and very handsome pointed nose inspired by Formula 1 race cars whereas the rear is a testament to practicality with a split opening tailgate that by its very nature could never look remotely sporty or interesting. The side view just reveals a large front overhang that is due to the car's front wheel drive set up. So my best advice is to reverse park all the time and this way you will be very happy with the SW's exterior and always get to view it from the right angle when returning to it.
Inside the entry level 308SW comes with just five seats. The middle row is made up of three individual and removable seats. For a few quid more you can get an extra two seats for the very rear of the cabin. When all seven seats are in place the boot space (as in nearly all MPVs) all but disappears.
The big glass roof that first appeared in the 307SW has a convenient electric blind should we get a period of intense sunshine in Ireland! Sadly, as with the car, it is replacing the roof cannot be opened to let in some fresh air should a nappy go wrong! The 'Cielo' roof is standard on all bar the entry model.
All round visibility is excellent, although you are aware of sitting considerably lower than you would in a standard MPV. My SV model has cruise control air conditioning and auto lights plus under seat storage trays and seat back trays on the front seats.
There is just one engine option petrol or diesel. Both are 1.6 litres but the diesel (2 power versions 90 or 110bhp) is 'yer only man'. The 110 HDi is perfect for the car. It runs on the mere promise of fuel and is full of torque and feels like it will pull and pull no matter the load. The French make super diesels and this HDi is Peugeot's lifeblood. The 90bhp HDi is the cheapest car in the range as it has the lowest CO2 (125).
On the open road the SW feels soft and pliant just like the hatchback on which it is based. On twisty roads it rolls predictably but is balanced nonetheless. It certainly can't compete with the Ford Focus in the handling stakes but as a comfortable motor it is hard to fault. French cars are as a rule comfy by nature and the 308SW feels classy.
308SW is clearly less in your face than conventional MPVs and yet is just as up to the task of school run duties and DIY missions along with the best of them.
The 308 isn't a huge leap forward over the 307SW but is a decent car and well worth a closer look, particularly as it has such a good engine under the bonnet.
Michael Sheridan
