When we talk about family hatchbacks in the UK and Europe, two names keep circling back like seasoned fighters in the same weight class: the Peugeot 308 and the Vauxhall Astra.

Both are sharp, practical, efficient—and surprisingly stylish these days. But when we park them side by side and really look under the skin, which one actually deserves your driveway?

Let’s break it down properly. No fluff. No vague claims. Just real-world insights, sharp comparisons, and the kind of detail that helps us make a confident decision.

Why This Comparison Matters in 2026

The hatchback segment isn’t what it used to be. SUVs are everywhere. Crossovers dominate. Yet the 308 and Astra are still standing strong.

Why?

Because they offer:

• Better fuel efficiency than most SUVs
• Sharper handling
• Lower running costs
• Practicality without bulk

They’re the smart choice. And smart choices deserve deep analysis.

Exterior Design: French Flair vs British Sharpness

Peugeot 308 – Bold, Futuristic, Aggressive

The latest 308 looks like it escaped from a concept car studio. Slim LED headlights. Fang-shaped DRLs. A wide grille with the new Peugeot badge.

It’s daring.

It says, “I’m not your average hatchback.”

And honestly? It turns more heads than most cars in this class.

Vauxhall Astra – Clean, Confident, Modern

The Astra has reinvented itself. The “Vizor” front grille gives it a sleek, almost premium presence. It’s more restrained than the 308—but no less attractive.

If the 308 is bold fashion, the Astra is tailored precision.

Verdict:
Want drama? Choose 308.
Prefer understated cool? Astra wins.

Interior Design and Cabin Quality

Peugeot 308 Interior – The i-Cockpit Experience

Peugeot’s i-Cockpit remains one of the most unique setups on the market:

• Small steering wheel
• High-set digital cluster
• Angled driver-focused dashboard

Some love it. Some don’t.

But one thing’s clear: it feels premium. Soft-touch materials, sharp screens, ambient lighting—it punches above its class.

Vauxhall Astra Interior – Clean Digital Layout

The Astra counters with its “Pure Panel” digital dash. Dual widescreens. Logical layout. Less visual drama, more ergonomic logic.

It feels solid. Well built. German-influenced (thanks to Stellantis engineering roots).

If you value intuitive controls over flair, Astra may feel more natural.

Engine Options and Performance

Let’s talk power.

Both cars share similar underlying technology due to shared platforms under Stellantis, but tuning differences matter.

Peugeot 308 Engines

• 1.2 PureTech petrol (110–130 hp)
• 1.5 BlueHDi diesel (130 hp)
• Plug-in hybrid (180–225 hp)
• Fully electric e-308

The plug-in hybrid is surprisingly punchy. Smooth acceleration. Quiet delivery. Ideal for mixed driving.

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Vauxhall Astra Engines

• 1.2 Turbo petrol (110–130 hp)
• 1.5 Diesel (130 hp)
• Plug-in hybrid (180–225 hp)
• Fully electric Astra Electric

On paper? Almost identical.

In reality?

• The 308 feels slightly more composed at high speed.
• The Astra feels marginally firmer in steering response.

Driving Experience: Comfort vs Control

Peugeot 308 Ride Quality

The 308 leans toward comfort.

It glides over motorway miles. Suspension tuning is soft enough for daily commuting without feeling floaty.

Perfect for:

• Long journeys
• Motorway drivers
• Family trips

Vauxhall Astra Handling

The Astra feels slightly tighter through corners. The steering has a bit more feedback.

It’s not a hot hatch. But it feels planted.

If we enjoy a twisty back road now and then? Astra has the edge.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Efficiency is where hatchbacks shine.

Petrol Models

• Both return around 50–55 mpg (real world)

Diesel Models

• 60–65 mpg easily achievable

Plug-in Hybrid

• 30–40 miles electric-only range
• Excellent for short urban runs

Electric Versions

• 250–260 miles WLTP range

Neither dominates here. It’s essentially a tie.

Boot Space and Practicality

Here’s where small differences matter.

Peugeot 308 Boot Space

• Hatchback: ~412 litres
• Estate (SW): ~608 litres

Vauxhall Astra Boot Space

• Hatchback: ~422 litres
• Estate: ~597 litres

The Astra hatchback technically offers slightly more boot space. But the 308 SW estate wins overall cargo flexibility.

If we’re hauling pushchairs, suitcases, or flat-pack furniture? The estate versions deserve serious attention.

Technology and Infotainment

Peugeot 308 Tech Highlights

• 10-inch touchscreen
• Customisable i-Toggles shortcuts
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• 3D digital instrument display

Vauxhall Astra Tech Highlights

• Dual 10-inch displays
• Wireless connectivity
• Intelli-HUD (head-up display)
• Advanced driver assistance systems

Both are strong. The 308 feels slightly more futuristic. The Astra feels slightly more intuitive.

Safety Features

Both cars include:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane-keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Traffic sign recognition

Euro NCAP ratings are strong across both ranges.

No clear winner. Both are family-safe choices.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Historically, the Astra had a stronger reliability perception. But recent Peugeot models have improved dramatically.

Running Costs to Consider

• Insurance groups: Similar range
• Servicing: Comparable
• Hybrid maintenance: Slightly higher for both

Depreciation? The 308’s striking design may help it retain value slightly better in newer generations.

Trim Levels Compared

Peugeot 308 Trims

• Active Premium
• Allure
• GT

GT models look especially sharp with larger alloys and sporty detailing.

Vauxhall Astra Trims

• Design
• GS
• Ultimate

The GS trim gives the Astra a sporty edge similar to Peugeot’s GT.

Comfort for Passengers

Rear legroom is respectable in both. Neither feels cramped.

However:

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• The Astra’s rear bench feels marginally more spacious.
• The 308’s rear headroom is slightly tighter due to its swooping roofline.

Families with taller teenagers may notice the difference.

Estate Versions: 308 SW vs Astra Sports Tourer

If we’re serious about space, the estates transform practicality.

• 308 SW: Sleeker design, slightly larger max capacity
• Astra Sports Tourer: More conservative styling, strong practicality

Both are excellent alternatives to compact SUVs.

Electric Versions Compared

The electric duel is fascinating.

Peugeot e-308

• ~250 miles range
• 156 hp
• Fast charging capability

Astra Electric

• Similar battery size
• Similar performance
• Comparable charging speeds

The differences are minimal. It comes down to styling preference and interior feel.

Who Should Choose the Peugeot 308?

Choose the 308 if we:

• Love bold, distinctive design
• Want a premium-feeling interior
• Prefer comfort-focused driving
• Appreciate futuristic dashboards

It feels slightly more “special.”

Who Should Choose the Vauxhall Astra?

Choose the Astra if we:

• Prefer logical layout and usability
• Want slightly sharper steering
• Value marginally larger hatch boot space
• Like clean, understated design

It feels grounded and practical.

The Emotional Factor

Cars aren’t spreadsheets.

The 308 feels expressive. Like it wants attention.

The Astra feels dependable. Like it wants to do its job perfectly.

One is a tailored blazer with personality. The other is a well-cut suit you trust every day.

Which speaks to us?

Final Verdict: Peugeot 308 vs Vauxhall Astra

This is one of the closest matchups in the hatchback segment.

• Performance: Tie
• Efficiency: Tie
• Technology: Slight edge to 308
• Handling: Slight edge to Astra
• Styling: Subjective

If we want flair and a more premium vibe → Peugeot 308.
If we want simplicity, logic, and practicality → Vauxhall Astra.

There’s no wrong answer here. Only preference.

And that’s exactly how it should be.

FAQs

1. Is the Peugeot 308 more reliable than the Vauxhall Astra?

Both are comparable in modern generations. Reliability differences are minimal under current platforms.

2. Which is bigger: 308 or Astra?

The Astra hatchback offers slightly more boot space, but the 308 SW estate has greater maximum cargo capacity.

3. Which is cheaper to run?

Running costs are very similar. Diesel versions offer the best long-term economy.

4. Is the 308 more premium than the Astra?

The 308 generally feels more upscale inside due to its design and materials.

5. Are the electric versions worth it?

If we mostly drive short daily commutes and can charge at home, yes—they’re excellent alternatives to petrol.

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