VW Golf GTI at its own game. Softer and more supple than its little brother; the 208 GTi, this is a hot hatch with less of an edge.
While it might not lead the class in terms of dynamics - that title going to the Megane 275 - it does still do a good job of being fun to drive when you need it.
The 308 GTi feels locked down, pliant and forgiving to drive at speed, but never quite develops that extra dynamic edge that makes the 208 GTi such an exciting steer. Instead, the car can end up feeling a little over-friendly, with even the VW adopting more of a personality.
That’s not to say the 308 GTi is by any means boring. The engine is powerful yet tractable and a class leader in terms of economy. The interior too, particularly when optioned with the Alcantara bucket seats, feels far more special than the standard slightly dour German-spec hot hatch.
The 308 GTi does a great job of dancing that all-too-familiar hot hatch jig of performance and practicality. The ride in particular is very good, apart from at low speeds where it can get a little choppy.
We would’ve liked to have seen some of the personality from the 208 instilled in the 308, but accept that Peugeot Sport will have had to tone things down in order to compete with the mass market. For those seeking an exciting daily drive that isn’t as uncompromising as a Megane 275, the new Peugeot 308 GTi makes a worthy alternative.
The 308 GTi is available in two different states of tune, putting out either 247bhp in the entry-level 250 version and 266bhp in the range topping 270.
It’s the latter that is the pick of the bunch here, as it also includes bigger 19-inch wheels, a Torsen diff and Michelin Pilot Super Sports, all for £1600 over the entry-level model.
Running the standard Michelin Pilot Super Sports the 270 model finds tremendous turn-in and mid-corner bite. Combined with the taut body control and pliancy over bumps that gives the car enough cross-country pace to live with any other hot hatch in this bracket. What this car lacks compared to the benchmark Megane is a pointy chassis balance – the Peugeot feels locked down and secure where the Renault is alive and thrilling.' Dan Prosser - Road Test Editor,
Performance and 0-60 time > Delivers impressive performance given its smaller-than-usual 1.6-litre engine, whichever state of tune you opt for.
Engine and transmission > The 1.6-litre turbocharged unit produces either 244bhp or 266bhp depending on the version you choose. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard.
Ride and handling > Relatively docile to drive despite its power output, though the small steering wheel doesn't deliver much feel.
MPG and running costs > Impressively frugal at 47mpg combined - that's less thirsty than some smaller, slower hatches. Michelin Super Sport tyres may prove expensive if you regularly track the car, however.
Prices, specs and rivals > Priced similarly to Golf GTIs and Renaultsport Meganes - it's faster and more involving than the former, but not quite as sharp as the latter.
Interior and design > Unusual small wheel and raised instruments are a love-or-hate affair, but the driving environment is sporty and quality better than you'd expect.
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