When it comes to stylish, driver-focused hatchbacks, two names keep circling back into the conversation: the Peugeot 308 and the Mazda 3. Both are sharp. Both are refined. Both promise that sweet balance between practicality and driving pleasure.

So which one actually deserves a spot on our driveway?

Let’s dive deep. We’ll unpack design, engines, reliability, comfort, tech, ownership costs, and the subtle details most reviews skip. Think of this as the conversation we’d have over coffee—just with a lot more torque figures.

Why Compare the Peugeot 308 and Mazda 3?

We’re talking about two compact hatchbacks that punch above their weight. They sit in the same segment, target the same buyers, and often appear on the same shortlist.

If you're choosing between them, you're probably asking:

• Which feels more premium?
• Which is more reliable long term?
• Which is more fun to drive?
• Which is better value in 2026?

Let’s answer all of that.

Exterior Design: Sharp French Edge vs Japanese Minimalism

Peugeot 308: Bold and Futuristic

The 308 doesn’t whisper. It announces itself.

With its aggressive LED fang-style daytime running lights, frameless grille, and angular bodywork, it looks like it escaped from a concept car stand. The newer generation especially feels premium—almost Audi-like in presence.

We get:

• Sculpted bonnet lines
• Bold Peugeot crest badge
• Sharp rear LED light signature
• Coupe-inspired profile

It’s confident. It’s dramatic. It’s unapologetically French.

Mazda 3: Clean, Sculpted Simplicity

The Mazda 3 takes a different approach. Instead of sharp creases, it uses smooth, flowing surfaces. Mazda calls it “Kodo design.” We call it automotive sculpture.

Highlights include:

• Minimal character lines
• Wide grille with slim headlights
• Muscular rear haunches
• Elegant proportions

The result? Timeless rather than trendy.

Verdict:
The 308 grabs attention immediately. The Mazda 3 grows on you. If you want bold, go Peugeot. If you prefer subtle sophistication, Mazda wins.

Interior Design: i-Cockpit vs Driver-Centric Simplicity

Peugeot 308 Cabin Experience

Peugeot’s i-Cockpit is… different.

You sit low, grip a small steering wheel, and look over it at a raised digital cluster. It feels futuristic and immersive.

We get:

• 10-inch infotainment (or larger on higher trims)
• Configurable digital driver display
• Piano-style toggle switches
• Ambient lighting in GT models

It feels modern. Sometimes experimental. But undeniably premium.

Mazda 3 Interior Philosophy

Mazda’s interior feels like a boutique hotel lobby.

Instead of touch-heavy layouts, Mazda uses a rotary dial controller. Materials are soft. Stitching is precise. The layout is clean and symmetrical.

We get:

• Premium-feeling plastics
• Simple horizontal dashboard design
• Heads-up display in higher trims
• Excellent seat ergonomics

Verdict:
Peugeot feels cutting-edge. Mazda feels mature and polished. If you love innovation, 308. If you love intuitive ergonomics, Mazda 3.

Engine Options and Performance

Now we get to the heart of it.

Peugeot 308 Engines

Depending on region, we typically see:

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• 1.2L PureTech petrol (110–130 hp)
• 1.5L BlueHDi diesel
• Plug-in hybrid options (180–225 hp combined)

The hybrid models deliver strong torque and excellent fuel economy. The petrol versions are smooth but not thrilling.

Mazda 3 Engines

Mazda focuses on naturally aspirated engines:

• 2.0L Skyactiv-G petrol
• 2.5L petrol (in some markets)
• Skyactiv-X mild hybrid (select regions)

The Mazda engines rev freely and feel linear. No turbo lag drama—just smooth power delivery.

Driving Experience: Which Is More Fun?

Peugeot 308 Driving Feel

• Light steering
• Composed ride
• Slightly comfort-biased setup
• Excellent motorway refinement

The hybrid version feels punchy in town thanks to instant torque.

Mazda 3 Driving Feel

Mazda is the enthusiast’s choice.

• Heavier steering feedback
• Balanced chassis
• Responsive throttle
• More engaging at higher revs

It feels more connected—like the car is reading your intentions.

Driving Verdict:
Mazda 3 wins for pure engagement. Peugeot 308 wins for comfort and efficiency.

Fuel Economy Comparison

Here’s where things get interesting.

Peugeot 308

• Petrol: ~45–55 mpg
• Diesel: 60+ mpg
• Plug-in Hybrid: 200+ mpg (official combined)

Mazda 3

• 2.0 Petrol: ~40–50 mpg
• Skyactiv-X: Slightly better than standard petrol

If efficiency is top priority, especially in urban driving, the 308 hybrid leads.

Practicality and Boot Space

Boot Capacity

• Peugeot 308: ~412 litres
• Mazda 3: ~351 litres

That’s a noticeable difference.

The 308 offers:

• Wider loading aperture
• Lower boot lip
• More usable space

Mazda sacrifices some cargo room for styling.

If family practicality matters? Peugeot wins here.

Rear Seat Comfort

Mazda 3 rear space is slightly tighter, especially headroom due to its sloping roofline.

Peugeot 308 offers:

• More legroom
• Better head clearance
• More airy rear cabin

If we regularly carry adults in the back, 308 feels more accommodating.

Technology and Infotainment

Peugeot 308 Tech Highlights

• Fully digital cockpit
• Touchscreen-based interface
• Customizable widgets

Mazda 3 Tech Highlights

• Rotary controller system
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Minimal distraction philosophy

Mazda’s system is less flashy but arguably safer and more intuitive while driving.

Safety Features

Both score highly in safety testing.

Common features include:

• Lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Autonomous emergency braking
• Blind spot monitoring

Both are strong choices for family safety.

Reliability and Ownership

This is where opinions matter.

Peugeot 308 Reliability

Recent generations show improvement. However:

• Older PureTech engines had timing belt concerns.
• Hybrid systems add complexity.

Mazda 3 Reliability

Mazda has a strong reputation for:

• Simple engine design
• Fewer turbo-related issues
• Lower long-term maintenance costs

Historically, Mazda edges ahead in long-term reliability.

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Maintenance Costs

Generally:

• Mazda 3 servicing costs are predictable and reasonable.
• Peugeot hybrid servicing may cost more due to complexity.
• Insurance groups are similar, depending on trim.

If you want fewer mechanical headaches, Mazda feels safer long-term.

Trim Levels and Value

Peugeot 308 Trims

• Active
• Allure
• GT

Mazda 3 Trims

• SE
• Sport
• GT Sport

Peugeot often includes more flashy tech. Mazda focuses on quality and essentials.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Mazda 3 typically holds value slightly better due to reliability reputation.

Peugeot 308 may depreciate faster, but that means better used bargains.

Hybrid Advantage: Peugeot’s Secret Weapon

Mazda does not offer a plug-in hybrid in most markets for the Mazda 3.

If you want:

• Electric-only commuting
• Lower tax bands
• Reduced fuel costs

Peugeot 308 PHEV makes a compelling case.

Which Feels More Premium?

Surprisingly close.

• Peugeot: Visually premium
• Mazda: Materially premium

Mazda often feels closer to entry-level luxury brands in cabin quality.

Who Should Choose the Peugeot 308?

Choose the 308 if you:

• Want bold design
• Need more boot space
• Prefer hybrid options
• Value cutting-edge tech

Who Should Choose the Mazda 3?

Choose the Mazda 3 if you:

• Love driving engagement
• Value long-term reliability
• Prefer classic styling
• Want a more intuitive interior

Final Verdict: Peugeot 308 vs Mazda 3

This isn’t a clear knockout.

The Peugeot 308 is the stylish innovator—spacious, efficient, and tech-forward.

The Mazda 3 is the refined athlete—engaging, reliable, and quietly premium.

If we prioritize emotion behind the wheel? Mazda wins.

If we prioritize space, hybrid efficiency, and bold modern design? Peugeot wins.

It really comes down to what makes us smile when we grab the keys.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Peugeot 308 and Mazda 3 feels like choosing between espresso and green tea. Both energize you. Just differently.

The 308 excites with design and innovation. The Mazda 3 impresses with engineering purity and balance.

There’s no wrong answer—only the one that fits our lifestyle best.

FAQs

1. Is the Peugeot 308 bigger than the Mazda 3?

Yes, the 308 offers more boot space and slightly more rear passenger room.

2. Which is more reliable long-term?

Historically, the Mazda 3 has a stronger reliability reputation.

3. Does the Mazda 3 have a hybrid option?

Not a plug-in hybrid like the Peugeot 308. Some mild-hybrid options exist in certain markets.

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4. Which is better for families?

The Peugeot 308 due to larger boot and rear space.

5. Which is more fun to drive?

The Mazda 3 generally feels more engaging and sporty.

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