When we talk about Peugeot 308 engine size, we’re not just tossing around numbers like 1.2L or 2.0L. We’re talking about personality. About how a car breathes, how it accelerates, how it sips or gulps fuel. Engine size defines character the way voice defines a singer.

And the Peugeot 308? It’s had many voices over the years—some soft and efficient, others punchy and eager.

Let’s break it all down clearly, casually, and comprehensively.

Understanding Peugeot 308 Engine Size Basics

Before diving into specifics, let’s get grounded.

What Does Engine Size Actually Mean?

Engine size (also called displacement) refers to the total volume of all cylinders inside the engine, measured in:

• Litres (L)
• Cubic centimetres (cc)

For example:

• 1.2L = 1,199cc
• 1.6L = 1,598cc
• 2.0L = 1,997cc

The bigger the number, the more air and fuel the engine can burn per cycle. More combustion usually means:

• More power
• More torque
• Higher fuel consumption (generally)

But modern turbocharging has changed the game entirely.

Peugeot 308 Generations and Engine Sizes

The Peugeot 308 has evolved through three major generations:

First Generation (2007–2013)

Second Generation (2013–2021)

Third Generation (2021–Present)

Each generation introduced new engine sizes, technology, and efficiency improvements.

Let’s unpack them one by one.

First Generation Peugeot 308 Engine Sizes (2007–2013)

This was the era of larger naturally aspirated engines and early turbo petrol units.

Petrol Engine Sizes

1.4L Petrol (1,397cc)

• Power: ~95 hp
• Ideal for city driving
• Simple, reliable setup

1.6L Petrol (1,598cc)

• Power: 120–150 hp
• Available as naturally aspirated or turbocharged
• Balanced performance and economy

1.6L THP Turbo

Developed in partnership with BMW. More responsive, more eager.

• Power: Up to 200 hp (GTi)
• Sporty character

Diesel Engine Sizes

1.6L HDi (1,560cc)

• 90–112 hp
• Excellent fuel economy
• Long-distance champion

2.0L HDi (1,997cc)

• 136–163 hp
• Strong torque
• Ideal for motorway cruising

Back then, diesel ruled Europe—and the 308 embraced it fully.

Second Generation Peugeot 308 Engine Sizes (2013–2021)

This generation was lighter, sharper, and more efficient.

Petrol Engine Sizes

1.2L PureTech (1,199cc)

This is where things got interesting.

Small engine. Big impact.

• 82 hp (naturally aspirated)
• 110 hp (turbo)
• 130 hp (turbo)

Despite its small size, the turbocharged 1.2L felt punchy. It proved that smaller engines can outperform older larger ones.

1.6L THP

• 155 hp
• 205 hp (GTi)
• 270 hp (GTi 270)

The 270 hp version? A hot hatch monster.

Diesel Engine Sizes

1.5L BlueHDi (1,499cc)

• 100–130 hp
• Cleaner emissions
• Better fuel efficiency

1.6L BlueHDi (1,560cc)

• 100–120 hp

2.0L BlueHDi (1,997cc)

• 150–180 hp
• Excellent torque

If you drive long distances, these diesel engines were incredibly efficient.

Third Generation Peugeot 308 Engine Sizes (2021–Present)

Now we enter the modern electrified era.

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Petrol Engine Sizes

1.2L PureTech Turbo

• 110 hp
• 130 hp

Still the core petrol engine. Refined, smoother, cleaner.

Diesel Engine Size

1.5L BlueHDi

• 130 hp
• Focused on emissions compliance and efficiency

Plug-in Hybrid Engine Configuration

Here’s where engine size becomes only part of the story.

1.6L Turbo + Electric Motor

Combined output:

• 180 hp
• 225 hp

The 1.6L engine works with an electric motor. Engine size still matters—but battery power adds instant torque.

Petrol vs Diesel: Which Engine Size Makes Sense?

Let’s simplify.

Choose Smaller Petrol (1.2L) If:

• You mainly drive in the city
• You want lower insurance
• You prefer lighter steering feel
• Annual mileage is low

Choose Diesel (1.5L / 2.0L) If:

• You drive long distances
• You need strong torque
• You value fuel economy on highways

Choose Hybrid (1.6L + Electric) If:

• You want performance + efficiency
• You have access to charging
• You want lower emissions

How Engine Size Affects Performance

Engine size influences:

• Acceleration
• Torque delivery
• Towing capacity
• Fuel consumption
• Maintenance complexity

Let’s compare key sizes.

Turbocharging: Why Engine Size Isn’t Everything

A modern 1.2L turbo can outperform an old 1.6L naturally aspirated engine.

Turbocharging:

• Forces more air into cylinders
• Increases combustion efficiency
• Boosts power without increasing size

Think of it like breathing through a performance inhaler.

Engine Size and Fuel Economy

Smaller engines usually mean:

• Lower fuel consumption
• Lower CO₂ emissions
• Lower tax in many countries

But aggressive driving can cancel that advantage quickly.

Real-world MPG depends more on driving style than displacement alone.

Reliability Considerations by Engine Size

1.2 PureTech

• Efficient
• Requires proper maintenance
• Timing belt health is crucial

1.6 THP

• Strong performance
• Earlier models required careful servicing

1.5 BlueHDi

• Solid long-distance reliability

Bigger engines aren’t automatically more reliable. Maintenance matters more than litres.

Insurance and Engine Size

In many markets:

• Smaller engines = lower insurance group
• Larger engines = higher premium

A 1.2L 308 is usually significantly cheaper to insure than a 2.0L GTi.

Engine Size and Driving Experience

Let’s talk feel.

1.2L

• Light front end
• Nimble in traffic
• Great urban balance

1.6L Turbo

• Strong mid-range pull
• Sportier character
• More engaging

2.0L Diesel

• Calm at motorway speeds
• Strong torque for overtaking

Each engine tells a different story.

Which Peugeot 308 Engine Size Is Best?

There’s no universal winner.

We can narrow it down:

• Best all-rounder: 1.2L PureTech 130 hp
• Best long-distance: 1.5L BlueHDi
• Most exciting: 1.6L GTi
• Most economical: 1.2L turbo (gentle driving)

It depends on how you live.

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Engine Size Comparison Across Generations

The trend is clear:

• Downsizing
• Turbocharging
• Electrification

Older 1.6L engines are replaced by turbocharged 1.2L units.
2.0L petrol engines are gone in favor of hybrid systems.

Efficiency is king now.

Peugeot 308 GTi Engine Size Spotlight

The GTi deserves its own section.

1.6L Turbocharged

• Up to 270 hp
• Limited-slip differential
• Performance-tuned chassis

Small displacement. Huge output.

Proof that litres don’t define power anymore.

Maintenance Costs by Engine Size

Smaller engines:

• Lower fuel cost
• Slightly cheaper insurance
• Turbo maintenance required

Larger engines:

• Higher fuel usage
• Stronger components
• Diesel systems can cost more to repair

Balance is everything.

Is Bigger Always Better?

Not today.

Modern engineering has made small engines powerful and efficient. A 1.2L turbo today outperforms many 2.0L engines from 15 years ago.

Technology reshaped displacement logic.

Final Thoughts on Peugeot 308 Engine Size

The beauty of the Peugeot 308 is its range.

From 1.2L city commuters to 2.0L diesel motorway cruisers and 1.6L hybrid systems, it offers a spectrum of personalities.

Engine size is no longer about bragging rights—it’s about matching your lifestyle.

Choose wisely, and the 308 becomes an extension of how you move through the world.

FAQs About Peugeot 308 Engine Size

1. What is the smallest Peugeot 308 engine size?

The smallest widely available engine is the 1.2L PureTech petrol.

2. Is the 1.2 PureTech engine powerful enough?

Yes. The 130 hp version delivers strong everyday performance.

3. What is the largest engine used in the 308?

The 2.0L diesel and high-output 1.6L GTi petrol are the most powerful.

4. Is diesel better than petrol in the 308?

Diesel suits high mileage drivers. Petrol is better for city use.

5. Does engine size affect resale value?

Yes. Smaller, efficient engines often retain value better in urban markets.

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