When we line up the Peugeot 308 and the Peugeot 508, it’s not just a battle of numbers. It’s personality versus presence. Agility versus authority. Urban confidence versus executive calm.

If you’ve ever stood in a dealership wondering, “Do I go practical and punchy—or sleek and sophisticated?” this is the deep dive we wish we had before making that call.

Let’s break it down properly. No fluff. No recycled clichés. Just real-world insight, side-by-side clarity, and the kind of details that actually matter when you live with the car every day.

Peugeot 308 vs 508 at a Glance

Before we dive into nuance, let’s zoom out.

Quick Comparison Overview

In simple terms:

• The 308 is nimble and city-smart.
• The 508 is larger, more composed, and feels more premium.

But size is just the surface.

Exterior Design: Sharp vs Sophisticated

Peugeot 308: Compact but Striking

The 308 doesn’t whisper. It prowls. The new-generation model features:

• Aggressive LED “fang” daytime running lights
• A bold grille with the new Peugeot badge
• Sharp, athletic proportions

It’s compact, but it doesn’t look small. It feels tight, intentional—like a tailored jacket.

Peugeot 508: Executive Drama

The 508, on the other hand, feels cinematic.

• Low-slung fastback silhouette
• Frameless doors
• Sleek LED light signatures

It’s less “city hatch” and more “business class on wheels.” If the 308 is a sprinting athlete, the 508 is a marathon runner in a tailored suit.

Interior Experience: Same DNA, Different Atmosphere

Both cars feature Peugeot’s distinctive i-Cockpit, but they interpret it differently.

Peugeot 308 Interior Feel

Inside the 308, we get:

• Compact steering wheel
• Digital instrument cluster
• Minimalist dashboard design
• High-tech toggle-style controls

It feels modern and playful. The seating position is slightly sporty. You feel connected to the car.

Peugeot 508 Interior Feel

Step into the 508 and things shift:

• More space
• More sound insulation
• Premium materials (especially in GT trims)
• Greater rear legroom

It’s calmer. More insulated from the outside world. If you commute long distances, that refinement matters.

Size and Space: Does Bigger Always Mean Better?

Exterior Dimensions Compared

• 308 Length: ~4.37m
• 508 Length: ~4.75m

That 38cm difference is noticeable in:

• Parking ease
• Turning radius
• Road presence

Boot Space Breakdown

• 308: Around 412 litres
• 508: Around 487 litres

If you carry:

• A stroller? Both fine.
• Weekly groceries? Both fine.
• Long business trips with large luggage? 508 wins.

But let’s be honest—unless you regularly haul large loads, the 308’s boot is more than adequate.

Driving Experience: Urban Energy vs Highway Authority

Here’s where personality really splits.

Peugeot 308 Driving Feel

The 308:

• Feels light
• Turns quickly
• Is easier to thread through traffic
• Parks effortlessly

It thrives in cities. It’s the car you want when roads are tight and parking is scarce.

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Peugeot 508 Driving Feel

The 508:

• Feels planted at high speed
• Is more composed over rough surfaces
• Offers better noise insulation

On highways, the difference becomes obvious. The 508 feels like it’s gliding. The 308 feels capable—but busier.

Engine Options: Power Meets Efficiency

Both models share similar engine families.

Petrol Engines

Common options include:

• 1.2L PureTech (308-focused)
• 1.6L turbo petrol
• Plug-in hybrid variants

Diesel Options

Depending on market:

• 1.5 BlueHDi
• 2.0 BlueHDi (more common in 508)

If you:

• Drive mostly city routes → 308 1.2L works perfectly.
• Do frequent motorway miles → 508 diesel or hybrid makes more sense.

Hybrid Models: Electrified Differences

Both offer plug-in hybrid variants.

• 308 Hybrid: Efficient, compact electrification.
• 508 Hybrid: More powerful, more executive feel.

The 508 PHEV tends to offer:

• Higher total power outputs
• Greater performance focus in GT trims

So if you want performance with efficiency, the 508 hybrid may edge ahead.

Ride Comfort and Suspension

308 Ride Character

Firm but controlled. Slightly sportier setup.

508 Ride Character

More mature suspension tuning:

• Better bump absorption
• Less road noise
• More stable at speed

If comfort ranks first, the 508 feels more relaxed.

Technology and Infotainment

Both offer:

• Digital instrument cluster
• Large central touchscreen
• Smartphone integration
• Advanced driver assistance systems

But higher trims in the 508 often feel more upscale, with:

• Larger screens
• Premium audio systems
• More ambient lighting options

Safety Features Compared

Standard features often include:

• Lane assist
• Automatic emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control (higher trims)

The 508 may include:

• More advanced semi-autonomous features in upper trims

In terms of core safety, both perform strongly.

Running Costs: What Will It Cost You?

Let’s talk money.

Fuel Economy

• 308 generally returns slightly better economy in petrol form due to lower weight.
• 508 diesel excels for motorway economy.

Insurance and Maintenance

Typically:

• 308 = Lower insurance group
• 508 = Slightly higher due to value and size

Parts costs are similar, but tyres and brake components can be more expensive on the 508.

Ownership Personality: Who Are You?

Choose the 308 If You:

• Live in a city
• Want agility
• Prefer compact practicality
• Value lower upfront cost

Choose the 508 If You:

• Drive long distances
• Want executive styling
• Need extra rear space
• Prioritize refinement

Resale Value Considerations

Compact cars like the 308 often:

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• Have broader resale markets
• Appeal to first-time buyers

The 508:

• May depreciate more initially
• Holds appeal in business segments

Market conditions vary, but smaller cars usually move faster in used markets.

Which Feels More Premium?

Let’s be honest.

The 508 feels more premium.

The longer wheelbase, extra insulation, and executive design cues elevate it. The 308 is modern and high-quality—but the 508 adds that extra layer of polish.

Long-Term Reliability Perspective

Both share platform and engines in many markets.

Key points:

• 1.2 PureTech engines require proper maintenance.
• Diesel variants benefit from regular long drives to maintain DPF health.
• Hybrid systems are generally reliable but costlier to repair.

Servicing both on schedule is crucial.

City vs Highway: Real-World Verdict

• In tight streets? 308 wins.
• On a 300-mile motorway journey? 508 wins.

The question isn’t which is better. It’s which fits your routine.

Final Verdict: Peugeot 308 vs 508

If we had to sum it up in one sentence:

The 308 is the smart urban companion. The 508 is the refined road companion.

Both are excellent—but built for different lifestyles.

The 308 makes sense emotionally and financially for many drivers. The 508 makes sense if you crave space, comfort, and a touch of executive flair.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Peugeot 308 and 508 isn’t about right or wrong. It’s about context.

Where do you drive most?
How much space do you truly need?
Do you value agility—or serenity?

The 308 feels like a quick, clever conversation.
The 508 feels like a calm, confident statement.

Pick the one that mirrors your life.

FAQs

1. Is the Peugeot 508 much bigger than the 308?

Yes, the 508 is around 38cm longer and offers more rear legroom and boot capacity.

2. Which is better for city driving?

The 308 is easier to maneuver and park in tight urban spaces.

3. Is the 508 more comfortable on long drives?

Yes, it offers better insulation and ride comfort for motorway travel.

4. Do both offer hybrid versions?

Yes, both the 308 and 508 are available with plug-in hybrid options in many markets.

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5. Which is more affordable to maintain?

Generally, the 308 costs slightly less in insurance and consumables due to its smaller size.

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