The 2019 Peugeot 308 belongs to the Second Generation (T9), which originally launched in 2013 and won the European Car of the Year award. The 2019 model features the mid-cycle facelift (introduced in 2017) with a sharper grille and an upgraded 8-speed automatic gearbox. It is the sophisticated, minimalist alternative to the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, offering a unique French driving flair.

The 308 makes downsizing work beautifully.

• 1.2L PureTech (Petrol) RECOMMENDED
  A 3-cylinder turbo engine producing 110 HP or 130 HP. It punches well above its weight, offering diesel-like torque (230 Nm) with petrol refinement. The 130 HP version paired with the EAT8 gearbox is the pick of the range.
• 1.5L BlueHDi (Diesel)
  Produces 130 HP. Incredible fuel economy (20+ km/l) but requires AdBlue and strict adherence to diesel quality.

• i-Cockpit: Like the 2008, it features the small steering wheel and high-mounted dials. It clears up dashboard space and gives a sporty feel, though some drivers find the wheel blocks the speedometer.
• Minimalism: Almost all buttons have been moved to the touchscreen. It looks incredibly clean and modern, but adjusting the AC requires taking your eyes off the road.

• 9.7-Inch Touchscreen: Standard on Allure and GT Line. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is decent but can be slightly laggy on startup.
• Glass Roof: The "Cielo" panoramic glass roof (standard on GT Line) is massive, flooding the cabin with light, though it doesn't open.

• 1.2L Petrol Economy: 15–18 km/l (Real world)
• 1.5L Diesel Economy: 18–22 km/l
• Maintenance: Moderate. The "Wet Belt" timing belt needs inspection at every service. Parts are available via Urysia (CFAO) or independent stockists like Impala Auto.

• Ride Quality: This is the 308's trump card. It rides beautifully, soaking up bumps with a fluidity that German cars (Golf/1 Series) struggle to match. It is very comfortable for Nairobi roads.
• Ground Clearance: At 140mm, it is standard for a hatchback. Speed bumps require caution, especially with the sporty front bumper on GT Line models.

5-Star Euro NCAP rating. Reliability is generally good, but the 1.2L PureTech engine requires the correct spec oil (Total Quartz Ineo First 0W-30) to prevent belt degradation. Do not cheap out on oil.

The following are estimated showroom prices for fresh imports (duty-paid) in major Kenyan cities including **Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret**.

The Peugeot 308 is the undervalued gem of the hatchback world. It drives better than a Vitz, looks better than a Golf, and is often cheaper to buy than both. If you are willing to follow strict maintenance schedules (right oil, timing belt checks), you get a premium European car for a bargain price.