Peugeot 308 I (T7) — complete buyer's guide
The complete reference for the first-generation Peugeot 308 (T7, 2007–2013): the PF2 platform, dimensions, every petrol and diesel engine, the 2011 facelift, known issues and a used-buyer checklist.
Production and platform
First-generation 308, internally coded T7. Produced from 2007 to 2013. Built on the PF2 platform (shared with the 307 and related models). Compact hatchback (also available as SW estate and CC cabriolet). Front-wheel drive. Facelifted in 2011 (updated styling, lighting and equipment). Available as petrol and diesel. Related to the 307 in the range; a more modern and refined successor.
Dimensions and practicality
Length about 4,276 mm (hatch); about 4,500 mm (SW). Width about 1,815 mm. Height about 1,498 mm (hatch); about 1,564 mm (SW). Wheelbase 2,608 mm. Boot about 348–400 litres (hatch; up to about 1,200–1,400 litres with the rear seats folded); the SW is larger. Fuel tank about 60 litres. A practical compact hatchback. The boot is adequate for the class. The rear seat is usable for adults. The cabin is functional with a conventional driving position. The ride is generally comfortable; higher-spec versions on larger wheels can be firmer.
Driving experience
The T7 is the 308 that swapped the 307's softness for a more settled, comfortable feel. Built on the PF2 platform, it stays reasonably light, so the front axle turns in cleanly and the car tracks calmly through corners, while the long wheelbase keeps it planted on the motorway. The conventional driving position is easy to live with, and most versions ride on a comfort-tuned rear that irons out broken tarmac. The 1.6 VTi is adequate, the 2.0 HDi pulls strongly and quietly, and the manual shifts cleanly — though the old 4-speed AL4 automatic can feel jerky. It is a comfortable, easy hatchback, not a sporty one.
Engines
Petrol
| Engine | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 VTi 95 / 98 | 1.4 L · 4-cyl (Prince) | 95–98 hp70–72 kW | 136 Nm | ~12–14 s |
| 1.6 VTi 120 / 122 | 1.6 L · 4-cyl (Prince) | 120–122 hp88–90 kW | 160 Nm | ~10–11 s |
| 1.6 THP 140 / 150 / 156 / 175 / 200 | 1.6 L · 4-cyl turbo (Prince) | 140–200 hp103–147 kW | 240–275 Nm | ~7–9 s |
Diesel
| Engine | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 HDi / e-HDi 90 / 92 / 110 / 112 / 115 Common · DPF/EGR issues | 1.6 L · 4-cyl diesel | 90–115 hp66–85 kW | 230–270 Nm | ~11–13 s |
| 2.0 HDi 136 / 140 / 150 / 163 Stronger | 2.0 L · 4-cyl diesel | 136–163 hp100–120 kW | 320–340 Nm | ~9–10 s |
Transmissions and drive
Front-wheel drive. 5/6-speed manual, 4-speed automatic (AL4), 6-speed automatic, or automated manual. The AL4 can be jerky.
Common issues and weak points
1.6 THP (Prince)
- Timing-chain tensioner wear on earlier units. High-pressure fuel-pump issues. Oil consumption. Carbon build-up. Prefer post-2011/2012 examples with revised components and full history.
1.6 VTi (Prince)
- Timing-chain tensioner wear on earlier units. Oil consumption. Carbon build-up. Prefer well-serviced examples.
1.6 HDi
- Turbo issues on some early units. Injector problems. DPF clogging on short-journey cars. EGR issues. Prefer well-serviced examples.
2.0 HDi
- Generally more robust. DPF and turbo issues on neglected high-mileage cars.
Other
- Suspension components (control-arm bushes, anti-roll-bar links) wear with age/mileage. Electronics and sensor issues reported. The AL4 automatic can be problematic. Some VIN-specific recalls (chain, fuel lines, etc.).
- Prefer later examples (post-2011 facelift) with full history, especially well-serviced 2.0 HDi diesels. Avoid high-mileage THP without chain attention. Diesels need DPF/EGR verification.
What to check when buying
- Confirm the exact engine, year (pre- or post-facelift) and powertrain. Full service history and Car-Pass essential.
- Verify all recalls have been completed (VIN check), especially chain and fuel-line campaigns.
- On THP/VTi: check for cold-start rattle (chain) and any oil consumption or fuel-pump issues.
- On HDi: check DPF regeneration history, turbo condition and any AdBlue (if fitted).
- Inspect the suspension for knocks. Check tyre wear and brakes.
- Test all electronics, the air conditioning and gearbox smoothness.
- Listen for unusual engine noises (cold-start rattle, chain noise). Prefer unmodified cars with complete history.
- Take a test drive and watch for chassis feel and any warning lights.
Running costs
Indicative costs for normal Belgian/EU use (approximate 2026 figures). Actual figures vary by region, driving style and service location.
Fuel consumption
- Petrol (1.6 THP / VTi): typically 7–9.5 L/100 km mixed.
- Diesel (HDi): typically 5–7 L/100 km mixed.
Maintenance
Low to moderate for a compact hatchback when well maintained. Timing chain, DPF/EGR and suspension are the main potential cost items. Independent specialists help keep bills down. Budget higher on high-mileage or neglected examples.
Road tax / registration (Belgium)
Varies by engine, power, CO₂ and region. Lower-powered and later diesel versions are generally more favourable. Calculate for the specific variant.
Insurance
Reasonable for the class. Higher-powered versions cost more.
LEZ / low-emission zones
Later Euro 5 versions are unrestricted in Belgian/EU low-emission zones. Earlier Euro 4 cars may face restrictions in stricter zones — check the exact Euro norm.
Market position
A plentiful and affordable used compact hatchback. Well-maintained later diesel examples (especially 2.0 HDi) are the most sought-after. Early high-mileage petrols (THP/VTi) and problematic diesels are cheaper but riskier. The best examples have full history, moderate mileage and evidence of careful ownership. A sorted T7 offers good practicality and comfort for the segment, but engine selection is critical.
Summary
This generation is a practical, comfortable and efficient compact hatchback when the right powertrain is chosen and service history is complete. The 1.6 THP and VTi need careful attention to the timing chain; HDi diesels need DPF and turbo monitoring. Post-2011 cars with full history (especially well-serviced 2.0 HDi) are preferred. Ownership costs are generally moderate, but neglected examples can become expensive.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
