When we stand in front of a Peugeot 308 and a Peugeot 208, the question isn’t just about size. It’s about lifestyle. It’s about whether we’re navigating tight city streets like a chess grandmaster—or cruising motorways like we own the horizon.

Both cars share Peugeot’s DNA: bold design, i-Cockpit interiors, efficient engines, and sharp driving manners. But they serve different personalities. So let’s break it down—honestly, thoroughly, and in a way that actually helps you choose.

Peugeot 308 vs 208 at a Glance

Before diving deep, here’s a snapshot comparison:

On paper, the 308 is bigger and more practical. The 208 is smaller and more nimble. But that’s just the beginning.

Design and Road Presence

Exterior Styling: Same Family, Different Attitude

Peugeot’s current design language is aggressive yet elegant. But the vibe differs.

Peugeot 208: Urban Predator

The 208 looks like it’s ready to dart between traffic lights. It’s compact, muscular, and sharp. That LED “fang” lighting? It gives serious attitude.

It’s playful. Confident. A bit rebellious.

Peugeot 308: Sophisticated Athlete

The 308 stretches the design into something more mature. Wider stance. Longer bonnet. Lower roofline. It looks planted.

If the 208 is a street fighter, the 308 is a tailored athlete in a sharp suit.

Interior and Cabin Experience

The i-Cockpit Philosophy

Both models use Peugeot’s i-Cockpit setup:

• Small steering wheel
• High-mounted digital cluster
• Driver-focused layout

But the execution feels different.

208 Cabin Feel

• Cozy and compact
• Ideal for solo drivers or couples
• Slightly tighter rear seating

It feels intimate—like a cockpit should.

308 Cabin Feel

• Noticeably wider
• More legroom and shoulder room
• Better rear passenger comfort

Here, we breathe easier. There’s space to stretch.

Practicality and Boot Space

Boot Capacity Comparison

• Peugeot 208: Around 311 litres
• Peugeot 308: Around 412 litres

That 100-litre difference? It’s significant.

If we’re packing:

• A stroller
• Two large suitcases
• Weekly supermarket haul

The 308 handles it with less Tetris.

Rear Seat Practicality

The 208 works for kids and short trips.

The 308? Adults can sit comfortably in the back—even on longer journeys.

Engine Options and Performance

Peugeot 208 Engines

• 1.2 PureTech petrol
• 1.5 BlueHDi diesel
• Fully electric (e-208)

Perfect for urban efficiency.

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Peugeot 308 Engines

• 1.2 PureTech petrol
• 1.5 BlueHDi diesel
• Plug-in hybrid options

The hybrid version adds serious torque and electric-only commuting potential.

Driving Experience: City vs Motorway

In the City

The 208 shines here.

• Easier parking
• Lighter feel
• Tighter turning circle

It dances through traffic.

On the Motorway

The 308 feels calmer and more planted.

• Better sound insulation
• Smoother ride
• More stable at high speeds

If long-distance driving is your norm, the 308 feels grown-up.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

208 Efficiency

Smaller engines + lighter body = excellent MPG.

Perfect if we want lower fuel bills.

308 Efficiency

Still efficient, but slightly higher consumption due to size. The plug-in hybrid offsets this with electric range.

Technology and Infotainment

Both offer:

• Digital instrument clusters
• Touchscreen infotainment
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Advanced driver assistance

However:

• The 308’s system feels more advanced
• Larger display options
• More premium finishes

It simply feels a step up.

Safety Features

Both cars typically include:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane-keeping assist
• Cruise control

The 308 may offer additional advanced features depending on trim.

Running Costs and Insurance

Peugeot 208

• Lower insurance groups
• Slightly cheaper servicing
• Lower purchase price

Peugeot 308

• Higher upfront cost
• Slightly higher insurance
• Hybrid may reduce company car tax

Budget-conscious buyers lean toward the 208.

Price Comparison

Entry-Level Pricing

• 208: More affordable
• 308: Premium pricing

You’re paying for size and refinement with the 308.

Electric and Hybrid Considerations

e-208

Fully electric.
Perfect for urban drivers.
Lower running costs.
No tailpipe emissions.

308 Plug-in Hybrid

Electric commuting + petrol backup.
Ideal for mixed driving.

If charging infrastructure is available, both offer future-proofing.

Who Should Buy the Peugeot 208?

Choose the 208 if:

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• We mainly drive in cities
• Parking space is tight
• Budget matters
• We don’t need big rear space

It’s practical, stylish, and efficient.

Who Should Buy the Peugeot 308?

Choose the 308 if:

• We travel long distances
• We have a family
• We need larger boot space
• We want a more premium feel

It’s comfortable, spacious, and refined.

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Peugeot 208 Pros

• Affordable
• Efficient
• Stylish
• Easy to park

Cons

• Less rear space
• Smaller boot

Peugeot 308 Pros

• Spacious
• Premium interior
• Strong motorway comfort
• Hybrid options

Cons

• Higher cost
• Slightly larger for tight cities

Long-Term Ownership Perspective

Think beyond the showroom.

• 208 holds value well in urban markets.
• 308 appeals to families and company car users.

Resale demand often mirrors lifestyle trends.

Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

Here’s the truth.

There isn’t a universal winner.

If your life revolves around tight streets, quick errands, and affordability—the 208 feels tailor-made.

If you want more space, comfort, and refinement—the 308 feels like the natural step up.

It’s not about better or worse.

It’s about fit.

And the right fit changes everything.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Peugeot 308 and 208 is like choosing between a tailored blazer and a fitted jacket. Both look sharp. Both serve a purpose. But one fits your daily rhythm better.

We need to ask ourselves:

• Where do we drive most?
• Who do we carry?
• What do we value—agility or space?

Answer those honestly, and the decision becomes crystal clear.

FAQs

1. Is the Peugeot 308 bigger than the 208?

Yes. The 308 is longer, wider, and offers more boot space.

2. Is the Peugeot 208 cheaper to run?

Generally yes, thanks to smaller engines and lower insurance groups.

3. Does the 308 feel more premium?

Yes, especially in interior space and ride comfort.

4. Which is better for city driving?

The 208 is easier to park and more agile.

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5. Are both available as electric?

The 208 has a fully electric version. The 308 offers plug-in hybrid options.

If you want to know other articles similar to Peugeot 308 vs 208: Which Hatchback Truly Fits Your Life? you can visit the category Models.