Review: Peugeot e-308 SW
Peugeot e-308 SW Review
Peugeot is doing a great job of expanding its line-up of electric vehicles. These days, pretty much its entire range is electrified in some way with the new 308 being available with petrol, plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains. But what if you need a little extra space over that standard hatch? That’s where this new SW version comes into play.
Offering more room than the regular car, it’s set to be a good choice for space-conscious families. But more importantly, it’s available with an electric powertrain - and that’s just what we’re testing out.
What’s new?
The new 308 has arrived with a striking design, which is something we’re coming to expect from this new wave of Peugeot models. But above and beyond the eye-catching exterior, we’ve got some clever technology inside and some more upmarket materials as this French brand attempts to push a little more upmarket.
But boot space is what buyers will likely be after from an estate car, which is why the e-308 SW offers plenty of luggage room. There are 548 litres to play with, in fact, which is more than you’ll find in rivals like the MG5. Plus, you can lower the rear seats down and expand this to 1,574 litres.
What’s under the bonnet?
Peugeot has shunned the trend for big batteries in its electric vehicles, favouring lighter and more compact setups which can deliver far better efficiency. In the e-308 SW, there’s a 51kWh battery which can deliver a range of up to 255 miles from a single charge. Connected to a 154bhp electric motor, you should be able to achieve 0-60mph in 9.6 seconds and carry on to a top speed of 106mph.
The e-308 SW can also accept a maximum charge rate of 100kW, which means a 20 to 80 per cent charge can be conducted in 28 minutes. Connect to a usual 7.4kWh home charger and a full top-up will take seven hours and 20 minutes.
What’s it like to drive?
There’s a distinctly comfort-orientated approach to driving with the e-308 SW. Lumps and bumps in the road are dealt with well, ensuring that the cabin remains interrupted by any imperfections in the road. It’s all very quiet, too, with both road and wind noise kept well suppressed.
Peugeot hasn’t given the e-308 SW any fake ‘noises’ piped into the cabin, either, shunning a trend for space-age sounds in electric vehicles. The steering is quite light but it’s direct and makes placing the car simple so that around-town driving can be undertaken with very little fuss. On the motorway, the e-308 SW feels particularly comfortable, too.
How does it look?
As we’ve touched upon, Peugeot has been knocking out of the park when it comes to design. The e-308 SW is no different. It’s easily one of the most striking ‘normal’ EVs out there, with Peugeot’s recognisable ‘claw’ LED running lights giving this car a very noticeable ‘face’. Couple with the sleek roofline and it’s a car which will definitely turn heads.
It’s available in loads of good colours, too, with vibrant blues and greens giving this car plenty of character. You’ll also find Peugeot’s new ‘shield’ badging at the front and rear of the car.
What’s it like inside?
There’s plenty to like inside the e-308 SW. The material quality is largely good, with soft-touch plastics used throughout to help elevate the look and feel of the cabin. The ergonomics are good, too, and the customisable ‘i-toggle’ controls help you to access key functions such as the navigation or media functions without having to delve through the main screen menus.
You still get Peugeot’s i-Cockpit setup, which brings digital dials and an ultra-compact steering wheel. It’s a very personal thing, however, as taller drivers might find it tricky to see the main display ahead of them - the wheel often gets in the way.
What’s the spec like?
Peugeot has given the e-308 SW plenty of equipment as standard. The large main screen comes fitted from the off and it’s easy to navigate and responsive, too. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, too, making it a breeze to mirror your smartphone on the car’s main display.
GT-specification cars - like our test 308 - add in a variety of sporty touches such as contrast stitching and electrically adjustable front seats. However, whichever specification you opt for you’re going to be getting plenty of features.
Verdict
The e-308 SW ticks loads of boxes. It’s a very intuitive electric vehicle and doesn’t feel too alien, so it’s a great ‘first EV’ for drivers looking to make the leap into a battery-powered vehicle for the first time, while its general fit-and-finish is great too.
If you’re already considering the e-308, then we’d probably hang on for the SW; it’s due in the first quarter of 2024 but adds in a healthy dose of practicality which makes it that little bit more usable day-to-day.
