BMW 3 Series G20 vs Peugeot 508 R83
BMW 3 Series
G20 · 2018 – 2026
The seventh-generation 3 Series (G20), on the CLAR rear-wheel-drive platform.
Peugeot 508
R83 · 2018 – 2026
The second 508 (R83), a fastback on EMP2 with PHEV and PSE.
BMW 3 Series
Pick the 3 Series for benchmark handling, efficient engines and a premium cabin in a compact executive sedan.
Peugeot 508
Pick the R83 for the modern 508 with a sharp fastback design and strong engines.
Performance
B48 320i · Petrol vs 1.6 PureTech 225 · Petrol
| BMW 3 Series | Peugeot 508 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
184 hp
|
225 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
300 Nm
|
300 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
7,1 s
Winner
|
7,3 s
|
| Top speed |
240 km/h
|
250 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
125,2 hp/t
|
158,5 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
134 g/km
Winner
|
140 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
5,9 L/100km
Winner
|
6,0 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW 3 Series | Peugeot 508 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
480 L
|
487 L
Winner
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
—
|
1.537 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,85 m
Winner
|
2,79 m
|
| Length |
4,71 m
|
4,75 m
|
| Ground clearance |
14,4 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
11,4 m
|
11,2 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
1.600 kg
|
1.600 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW 3 Series | Peugeot 508 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (rear-wheel-drive base) | EMP2 (modular) |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | B48 2.0 · B58 3.0 · B47 2.0 diesel · 330e PHEV | 1.2 PureTech · 1.6 PureTech petrol · 1.5/2.0 BlueHDi diesel · Hybrid/PSE PHEV |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | EAT8 automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- EGR cooler can leak on B47 diesels
- Transfer case (xDrive) judder on early cars
- Adaptive dampers need checking at high mileage
- 1.2 PureTech: wet timing belt
- 1.5 BlueHDi: AdBlue and chain on early units
- Infotainment software needs updates
Pros
- Sharp handling from rear-wheel drive
- Big boot & roomy rear seat
- Strong, efficient B-series engines
- Stylish fastback design
- Strong 2.0 BlueHDi diesel
- PHEV and PSE available
Cons
- Firm ride on M Sport (run-flat)
- Pricier than most rivals
- Boot smaller than classic saloons
- Low driving position
Driving experience
BMW 3 Series
Precise, balanced and still the class benchmark to drive. Steering is quick, accurate and communicative, body control taut, and the rear-drive chassis stays planted yet adjustable through bends. sDrive keeps the classic 3 Series balance and a hint of playfulness; xDrive adds all-weather grip without dulling the nose. The optional adaptive M suspension spans comfortable to firmly controlled. The B48/B58 petrols are smooth and free-revving, the B47/B57 diesels pull strongly and stay refined, and the 320e/330e plug-in hybrids glide silently on electric power. The ZF 8-speed is quick and seamless; the early manual is a rare, engaging treat. Overall a poised sports saloon that blends sharp dynamics with everyday comfort.
Peugeot 508
The R83 wears a four-door coupé suit but rides the EMP2 bones of a family saloon, and that mix defines it. It sits low and wide, so the front axle feels keen and the car tracks calmly through corners, while the long wheelbase keeps it planted on the motorway. The small i-Cockpit wheel and raised dials are the most extreme Peugeot has done and demand a real acclimatisation; once settled, the steering is quick and accurate and body roll stays well held. Most versions ride on a comfort-tuned rear that smothers broken tarmac, though big wheels and firmer GT/PSE damping add some fidget. The 2.0 BlueHDi pulls strongly and quietly, the PSE is properly rapid, and the EAT8 automatic shifts without drama. It is a composed, comfortable fastback, not a sports saloon.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
For sale at dealers
BMW 3 Series
0 for saleNo listings at the moment
