When we talk about hatchbacks that blend European flair with everyday practicality, the Peugeot 308 always enters the conversation. But here’s the real question most buyers wrestle with: which Peugeot 308 trim level should we actually choose?

It’s not just about picking a color and driving off. The 308 lineup has evolved across generations, and each trim level carries its own personality—like siblings raised in the same house but with wildly different temperaments.

Let’s break it all down. Clearly. Honestly. And without fluff.

Why Trim Levels Matter More Than We Think

Trim levels aren’t just badges on the boot lid. They determine:

• Interior materials
• Technology features
• Safety systems
• Wheel sizes
• Engine availability
• Driving feel

Choose the wrong trim, and you might miss the features you’ll use every single day. Choose wisely, and you’ll feel like you’ve outsmarted the system.

Peugeot 308 Generations and Trim Evolution

First Generation (2007–2013)

The original 308 replaced the 307 and introduced:

• Conservative design
• Soft suspension tuning
• Simple trim hierarchy

Common trims included:

• Access
• S
• Sport
• SE

It was practical. Sensible. Slightly understated.

Second Generation (2014–2021)

This was a turning point.

The 308 slimmed down, sharpened up, and adopted the futuristic i-Cockpit. Suddenly, it wasn’t just practical—it was desirable.

Popular trims:

• Active
• Allure
• GT Line
• GT
• GTi

Third Generation (2022–Present)

Now we’re in modern territory.

Sharper design. Larger digital displays. Electrified options. A much more premium feel.

Core trims today typically include:

• Active Premium
• Allure
• GT

Each one carefully layered with technology and refinement.

Entry-Level Trims: Active & Access

What You Actually Get

Let’s clear something up. “Base model” doesn’t mean barebones anymore.

Entry-level 308 trims usually include:

• LED headlights
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• 10-inch touchscreen (newer models)
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Rear parking sensors
• Digital instrument cluster

That’s already more than luxury cars offered a decade ago.

Who Should Choose This Trim?

We’d say:

• Commuters
• First-time buyers
• Fleet users
• Budget-conscious families

If you don’t care about leather seats or panoramic roofs, this trim delivers excellent value.

Mid-Range Trims: Allure

Now we’re getting interesting.

What Makes Allure Special?

Allure is where the 308 starts feeling premium.

Typical upgrades include:

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• Larger alloy wheels (17–18 inches)
• Ambient interior lighting
• Upgraded upholstery
• Keyless entry
• Enhanced safety tech

It’s the trim that most buyers gravitate toward.

Is Allure the Sweet Spot?

Honestly? Often yes.

It balances:

• Price
• Comfort
• Visual appeal
• Technology

You get the “wow factor” without stepping into performance pricing.

Sporty Appeal: GT Line & GT

GT Line – Style Without the Full Performance Punch

GT Line (on older generations) was about visual drama:

• Gloss black details
• Sport seats
• Red stitching
• Larger wheels
• Flat-bottom steering wheel

Underneath? Often the same engines as Allure.

Think of it as athleisure wear for cars.

GT – The Real Performance Edge

GT is different.

Here we see:

• More powerful engines
• Sport suspension
• Advanced driver assistance systems
• Matrix LED lighting
• Premium sound systems

The GT trim transforms the 308 from practical hatchback into something genuinely exciting.

The Iconic GTi Trim (Performance Legend)

If you’re hunting for thrills, the Peugeot 308 GTi deserves attention.

What Made GTi Special?

• 1.6L turbo engine up to 270 PS
• Torsen limited-slip differential
• Massive brakes
• Aggressive styling
• Lightweight chassis

It wasn’t just quick. It was precise.

The GTi is no longer in production, which means it’s becoming something rarer—a future classic.

Hybrid and Electrified Trims

Modern 308 trims now include plug-in hybrid versions.

These are usually available in:

• Allure
• GT

Benefits include:

• Up to 30–40 miles electric range
• Lower company car tax (in some markets)
• Smooth urban driving

The hybrid trims don’t sacrifice style. They simply add efficiency to the mix.

Interior Differences Across Trims

Seats and Upholstery

• Active: Cloth
• Allure: Upgraded fabric or Alcantara
• GT: Sport seats, contrast stitching

Digital Displays

• Base trims: Digital cluster + central screen
• Higher trims: 3D digital display (new gen)
• GT: Larger configurable interfaces

The difference isn’t just visual—it changes how the car feels every morning.

Technology Breakdown by Trim

Let’s simplify this into a structured comparison:

Infotainment

• Active: Standard touchscreen
• Allure: Enhanced connectivity
• GT: Advanced navigation + voice controls

Safety Systems

• Active: Lane assist, AEB
• Allure: Blind spot monitoring
• GT: Adaptive cruise, lane positioning

Comfort Additions

• Heated seats (mid/high trims)
• Dual-zone climate control
• Wireless phone charging

Exterior Styling Variations

Trims affect:

• Wheel size
• Chrome vs gloss black accents
• LED lighting signatures
• Exhaust finishers

GT trims tend to look sharper and more aggressive. Active trims look clean and understated.

Which Peugeot 308 Trim Offers Best Value?

If we’re being brutally honest:

• Best budget pick: Active
• Best overall balance: Allure
• Best tech & features: GT
• Best driver’s choice (used market): GTi

The sweet spot for most buyers? Allure.

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It feels complete without being excessive.

New vs Used: Trim Considerations

Buying used?

Focus on:

• Service history
• Optional packs
• Engine variant

Sometimes a lower trim with optional extras beats a higher trim without them.

Common Optional Packs to Watch For

Some trims allow upgrades like:

• Panoramic sunroof
• Premium Focal sound system
• Driver assistance packs
• Larger alloy wheels

Always check the specification sheet—two identical trims can differ massively.

Insurance & Running Costs by Trim

Higher trims usually mean:

• Larger wheels = higher tyre costs
• Bigger engines = slightly higher fuel use
• More tech = potentially higher repair costs

However, modern 308 trims are generally economical across the range.

Peugeot 308 Hatchback vs SW Trim Levels

The estate version, the Peugeot 308 SW, mirrors most hatchback trims.

Differences:

• Larger boot space
• Slightly higher pricing
• Same technology tiers

If practicality matters, the SW makes sense without losing trim benefits.

How to Choose the Right Trim for You

Ask yourself:

1. Do we care about sporty styling?
2. Is fuel economy a priority?
3. Do we want the latest tech?
4. Are we buying new or used?
5. Is resale value important?

If technology excites you, lean toward GT.
If balance matters, Allure.
If budget rules, Active.

It’s that simple.

Final Thoughts: Trim Levels Define the Experience

The Peugeot 308 isn’t just one car. It’s a spectrum.

From sensible commuter to sharp hot hatch, from efficient hybrid to premium digital cruiser—the trim you choose defines how you experience it.

And that’s the beauty of it.

Pick carefully. Drive happily. And choose the version that feels like it was built for you.

FAQs

1. What is the highest Peugeot 308 trim level?

Currently, the GT trim is the highest standard production level. Previously, GTi was the performance flagship.

2. Is Allure better than Active?

Yes, in terms of features and premium feel. Active focuses on value; Allure adds comfort and tech.

3. Does GT mean faster?

Typically yes. GT trims often include more powerful engines and sport suspension.

4. Are Peugeot 308 trims expensive to maintain?

Not generally. Running costs remain reasonable across trims, though performance versions may cost more.

5. Which trim holds value best?

Mid-range trims like Allure and sporty GT models often retain value better than entry-level versions.

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