Peugeot e-308 Explained: The New 54 kWh Battery Model
The electric compact hatchback segment is certainly crowded, yet there always seems to be at least one new contender that deserves another look. The list of compact cars that are getting “electrified” is growing, and the Peugeot e-308 is one of those cars. While several manufacturers are rounding up headline-grabbing power and futuristic designs, Peugeot has taken a more subtle approach. Here, the strength of the new model is not in extremes, but rather in the well-balanced ability made possible by a completely new 54 kWh lithium-ion battery and a responsive 115 kW motor. It’s a package designed not just to compete, but to compete in a way that provides a highly compelling ownership experience.This is far from your run-of-the-mill EV to beef up the list; it’s a statement of intent from a manufacturer with a history steeped in automotive excellence. Peugeot has concentrated on what really counts for day-to-day driving: efficiency, comfort and sophisticated styling. The powertrain offers a good balance of practical range with smooth power delivery, designed to overcome range anxiety, and at the same time, deliver instant torque that makes urban driving enjoyable. Having been behind the wheel, I can tell you it’s a car that’s been designed to be driven, everything about it, from the layout of the controls to the way it handles with confidence on the road. In this detailed review, we cover all aspects of the Peugeot e-308. We’ll take a look at how it performs on the road, the practicality of the cabin and boot, and the way the on-board technology is packaged. And we’ll also analyse the daily running costs and compare them with its major rivals. Here’s the thing: if you’re thinking about joining the electric bandwagon and you’re looking for a straight, deep dive on a car that offers style without too much compromise, you’ll find none better. Come on. Let’s get started.
A Glimpse into the Peugeot e-308 Review
- 54 kWh Battery: Up to 260 miles WLTP range, minimising range anxiety for everyday use.
- 115 kW Motor (156 hp, 270 Nm): Delivers seamless, assured acceleration in the city or on the highway.
- Real Boot Space: 384 litres in the hatch and 548 in the SW – ready for families and active lifestyles.
- Peugeot i-Cockpit Dual 10-Inch Screens: More fun to drive, and makes information crisp and easy to reach.
- Sophisticated Safety and Driver-Assistance: Builds confidence at the roadside and makes for a relaxing drive
- Low-Cost Home Charging: Keeps operating costs low, leaving more money in your pocket compared to petrol or diesel.
- Battery warranty for 8 years: Gives further confidence and peace of mind to the owner.
- Stylish, Premium Interior: Transforms everyday journeys from the ordinary to a class above.
- Competitive angling: Demonstrates how Peugeot’s unusual combination of comfort, practicality and high-quality cabin makes it a genuine contender for the competition.

Navigating Urban and Open Roads in the Peugeot e-308
From the very first moment you sit in it and take hold of the wheel, the Peugeot e-308 is quite simply an extremely engaging car to drive. On my first spin on busy streets, I was immediately taken by how calm and eager it was. The light steering makes doing tight turns and weaving through packed car parks effortless, and with the instant electric torque you get from the bottom, you can leave the traffic lights with a smooth, exhilarating surge. This isn’t upshift grabbing, neck-snapping speed, but rather a sure-footed and immediate reaction that makes zipping around town really fun. It feels like you’re in complete control, and nipping through gaps in traffic or weaving around the cars in front of you feels effortless.What really makes the in-town ride sing is the suspension. Peugeot has designed a scheme that responds to every bump in the city tarmac, from shuddering potholes to acned manhole covers. It liners on the ride in a way that would put some much larger, much more costly saloons to shame, and it helps generate a nice and relaxing cabin atmosphere. This comfort isn’t simply a slight convenience; it substantially decreases driver fatigue on day-to-day travels. After a busy route, rambunctious intake of air during rush hour, I got relaxed and refreshed, sensing fatigue from the stop-and-go traffic and rumble road does nothing to wear me down. Stress is taken out of the equation by the car, really.On the motorway, the e-308 proves itself to be an able long-distance tourer. It wears down to a gentle hum, and very little wind or road noise can be heard through the well-sealed cabin. Although the initial burst of acceleration is most apparent at low speeds, the vehicle still has enough power to allow you to safely pass other cars while driving at 70 mph. It’s composed as well and feels planted and confident mid-corner. The driving experience is so serene and composed that you can spend all day at the wheel and not feel like you’ve been sapped of all your energy. This double talent makes the Peugeot e-308 an ideal all-rounder for those seeking an agile city car to use during the week and a dependable partner for weekend getaways.
- Light steering: Makes urban manoeuvrability and parking simple and stress-free
- Instant electric torque: Smooth, responsive acceleration ideal for city driving and traffic
- Advanced suspension: Absorbs bumps and imperfections, leading to a comfortable, fatigue-free commute
- Well-insulated cabin: Reduces wind and road noise for a more peaceful motorway experience
- Balanced ride dynamics: Offers stability at speed and composure in corners, boosting driver confidence
Decoding the Peugeot e-308’s On-Road Dynamics
While the Peugeot e-308’s performance figures might raise some eyebrows, on paper, they look relatively modest. A 0-62 mph time of 9.8 seconds is not going to break any records, but the numbers you read in the headlines rarely tell the whole story about a car’s character. In practice, the 115 kW motor, which has an output of 156 hp and an instant torque of 270 Nm, delivers a surprisingly smooth and spirited drive that you will remember. You notice that most in normal everyday driving. Without the wait, the initial response from the electric powertrain is instantaneous and gratifying when pulling away from a junction or joining a motorway. There’s no hesitation, just a linear, confident wave of power that makes weaving down crowded city blocks feel like a cinch. This smooth power delivery also makes the e-308 a comfortable and relaxing car to use as an everyday drive.The car’s handling is yet another place where you can really tell that a big thought went into the engineering. The e-308 is surprisingly stable and composed, especially on curving roads. Much of this stability is due to the way the 54 kWh battery pack is cleverly positioned low in the chassis. This decreases the car’s centre of gravity greatly, thereby dramatically reducing body roll and giving a planted sense through corners. The steering is nicely weighted, providing just the right amount of feedback to keep you connected to the road without feeling heavy or laborious. It might not have the razor-sharp, knife-edged dynamics of a proper hot hatch, but the e-308 gives you plenty of confidence to keep the momentum flowing smoothly. It is also predictable and stable, never feeling like the road is slipping away from the driver.Contributing to the driving pleasure is the precisely tuned regenerative braking. Engaged by a press of the ‘B’ button just below the gear knob, it enables the vehicle to reclaim energy that would have been lost during deceleration and send it back to the battery to improve efficiency. It is easy to use and not too intrusive; on the contrary, it softens a little bit the act of braking when you are taking your foot off the accelerator. This is ideal for one-pedal driving in stop-and-go city traffic, as it minimises how often you have to move your foot between pedals and makes driving less tiring. It’s a smart feature that not only gets you more miles out of each charge but also streamlines the flow of urban commuting.”
- 115 kW motor with 156 hp and 270 Nm torque: Provides smooth acceleration and responsive power for relaxed, confident driving in all conditions.
- Low-mounted 54 kWh battery: Enhances stability and handling, delivering secure and composed cornering even on challenging roads.
- Well-weighted steering: Offers precise control without fatigue, helping you feel connected to the road for a more enjoyable drive.
- Regenerative braking with ‘B’ mode: Boosts energy efficiency and allows intuitive one-pedal driving, reducing fatigue in heavy traffic.
- Seamless electric performance: Makes daily commuting easy, comfortable, and stress-free, regardless of the environment.

Unpacking the Peugeot e-308’s Interior and Practicality
Climbing into the Peugeot e-308, the brand’s distinctive i-Cockpit is immediately in view, a design element that makes it stand out in a crowded market. The most striking aspect is the diminutive, practically square-shaped steering wheel, which you look over instead of through to view the high-mounted digital driver’s display. This setup can seem a little strange at first, and you may need to fiddle with your seat and steering column for a few moments to get comfortable. But once you find your bearings, the interface is surprisingly straightforward. With the clean digital dials right in your line of sight, your eyes can be closer to the road, which is safer and less distracting. Overall, the interior is designed to be as engaging and functional as the exterior, with a modern, driver-focused feel that makes for a cockpit-like experience.The quality of the materials used throughout the cabin underlines Peugeot’s shift upmarket. The dashboard and door panels are covered with soft-touch plastic, and the switchgear is tactile and solid. Nothing in the cabin seems cheap bolt bolt-together, or with a lack of attention to detail as it has been built. This commitment to quality enhances the sense of ownership, the result being a travel cabin that is truly enjoyable in which to be, whether you are on a quick jaunt to the grocery store or a cross-country ride. Balancing minimalist modernism with familiar convenience, the design is the right amount of simple and avoids forcing you to dig through layers of menus on a touchscreen to find important controls.When it comes to day-to-day practicality, the Peugeot e-308 comes into its own as a useful family car. The boot of the hatchback version is 384 litres, enough room for your weekly groceries, school bags or a couple of carry-on luggage for a weekend getaway. While the battery layout means it’s a little bit smaller than its petrol-powered sibling, the room is well-shaped and easy to get into. If you need to accommodate all the different demands of a big family, the SW estate is the no-brainer here. Its ample 548-litre boot makes the e-308 a very practical load-carrier, ideal for family holidays, trips to the garden centre, or lugging around bulky sports equipment. Two adults can sit comfortably in the rear on short journeys, and fold down the rear seats. The SW offers a large flat loading floor that’ll take just about anything you can throw at it.
- Signature i-Cockpit layout: Ensures excellent visibility and a more focused, driver-friendly environment.
- High-grade soft-touch materials: Deliver a premium feel and an enjoyable cabin ambience for daily use.
- : Provides ample storage for shopping, luggage, or day-to-day items.
- 548-litre SW estate boot: Offers excellent cargo versatility for families, larger loads, and active lifestyles.
- Fold-down rear seats: Enable easy transport of larger items and maximise practical space for varied needs.
Inside the Peugeot e-308: A Showcase of Modern Technology
The Peugeot e-308 is packed with an array of up-to-date technology to help ensure every journey is safer, more connected and more comfortable. In the middle of the dash, a sharp and snappy 10-inch central touchscreen acts as the main centre for media, navigation and vehicle options. The interface is quite straightforward, with little lag between input and reaction. A particularly noteworthy attribute: the cluster of customizable digital ‘i-Toggles’ right beneath the primary screen. These may be set up as shortcuts for the features you use most frequently, including climate control, a preset radio station or a favourite contact, so you can access them easily with a single tap without having to navigate menus. This well-thought-out addition greatly improves the user experience as well as minimises the possibility of distractions for the driver.Even better connectivity is a key feature of the e-308’s technology offering. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so you can easily project your phone’s interface onto your car’s screen without plugging in a wire. This integration lets you bring your favourite apps, music and navigation services into a familiar and easy-to-use interface from the moment you step inside. This, along with the clear visuals of the infotainment system, makes it incredibly easy to keep connected while driving, for both making a hands-free call and streaming your favourite playlist without having to worry about this on the road. Peugeot has also given the nod to state-of-the-art driver-assistance and safety technologies. Every e-308 includes basic equipment such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, and traffic sign recognition. Selecting additional trim levels reveals even more advanced features, such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, a godsend in stop-and-go traffic. It automatically keeps a safe distance from the car in front of you, which can take a little stress out of traffic-packed commutes. The optional 360-degree camera system gives you a full bird’s-eye view around your vehicle, allowing you to navigate even the tightest of parking spaces with remarkable ease. Ultimately, the charging functions of the e-308 are adapted to today’s way of living. With 100 kW DC fast charging capabilities, the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in less than 30 minutes – long enough to grab a coffee and hit the road.
- 10-inch central touchscreen: Simple, quick access to controls for an easier, less distracting drive.
- Customisable digital i-Toggles: Personalised shortcuts reduce time spent searching for functions.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Effortless smartphone integration provides seamless access to apps and media.
- Advanced driver-assistance features: Automated emergency braking and lane-keeping make journeys safer and less stressful.
- Adaptive cruise control and 360-degree cameras: Eases congestion driving and parking in tight spaces.
- 100 kW DC fast charging: Rapid top-ups fit conveniently into a busy schedule.

Decoding the Ownership Costs of the Peugeot e-308
One of the most persuasive reasons to make the switch to an electric car is the huge savings in running costs, and the Peugeot e-308 is a classic illustration of that advantage. The main saving is on running costs. When you charge your car at home, especially on a single electricity off-peak rate, the cost per km is much lower than for gasoline or diesel. For a normal commute, the cost can be surprisingly low, often just a few pounds for an entire week’s worth of driving. This steady, predictable saving turns the day-to-day running of a car from a big expense to a relatively small, manageable one. When you take into account the complete exemption from the road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) and the London Congestion Charge, the financial benefits are even more substantial. At the end of the year, those can be hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds saved for a lot of drivers.In addition to fuel and tax, the e-308’s long-term ownership proposition is supported by less maintenance and a strong warranty. Electric powertrains have far fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines, so electric car owners can forget about oil changes, exhaust system repairs or timing belt replacements. This means less expense and time servicing them in the shop. In addition to that, Peugeot also offers peace of mind with an eight-year/100,000-mile coverage on the battery, which includes a wholesale replacement of the battery pack if it drops below 70% of its original capacity. This kind of comprehensive protection alleviates one of the biggest apprehensions potential EV buyers have, making sure that the most valuable component of the car is taken care of for the long run. The remainder of the vehicle is protected by a normal three-year warranty, so you have an adequate amount of assistance from day one.In terms of total cost of ownership, e-308 is a financially prudent option for UK drivers. While the upfront cost may be more than the equivalent petrol engine, the cost savings add up. Again, they’re broadly comparable to other electric family hatchbacks, and there’s nothing unexpected to worry about. Combine that with low running costs, government incentives, reduced servicing requirements and a comprehensive battery warranty, and the e-308 is a very enticing and logical proposition indeed. It lets owners have a stylish, comfortable, and modern car, while simultaneously benefiting from a far smaller financial impact over the course of the vehicle’s life.
- Home charging capability: Enables substantial savings on daily travel compared to petrol or diesel.
- Zero road tax and Congestion Charge exemption: Reduces annual running costs, especially for city drivers.
- Fewer moving parts in the electric powertrain: Cuts down on service visits and lowers maintenance expenses.
- Eight-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty: Provides reassurance for long-term reliability and value retention.
- Standard three-year vehicle warranty: Gives added security and confidence in ownership.
- Competitive insurance rates: Keep overall costs predictable and manageable.
- Lower total cost of ownership: Releases budget over time for other investments or experiences.
Peugeot e-308 vs. The Competition: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The electric hatchback segment is highly competitive, and the Peugeot e-308 faces numerous established and tough competitors. It has a French twist but also the premium feel of comfort, but it’s worth seeing what it has to say against strong rivals such as Volkswagen ID.3, Cupra Born, as well as the budget-friendly MG4. All of these cars shine in different ways, so which one is best comes down to what you want most, be it sporty driving dynamics, value, or elegant design. The e-308 finds its own way in the segment by aspiring to produce a premium, all-round competent feel rather than being the quickest or the cheapest.Here’s how the Peugeot e-308 stacks up against its German rivals, the VW ID.3 and Cupra Born, in which the approaches could not be more different. Both the ID.3 and Born are based on a purpose-built electric platform, which provides them with a significantly different packaging profile, most notably in terms of interior space. Rear seat passengers will have more legroom in the VW and Cupra, and their minimalist, futuristic interiors may win over anyone interested in a tech-forward ride. The Cupra Born, in fact, has a sportier ride with more reactive handling. But this is where the e-308’s counterintuitive route turns out to be its biggest advantage. Its cabin is more traditional and arguably more opulent, with better materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a package more reminiscent of a premium car than a tech toy. The e-308 doesn’t shout about being electric, but it does have a polished, comfortable and well-equipped cabin that many drivers are going to find more welcoming.The MG4 presents a different sort of challenge, mainly in terms of price and value. It has rocked the market by providing a similar real-world range and robust performance at a fraction of the price, which makes the Tesla Model 3 a no-brainer pick for cost-conscious buyers. But a vistazo a lado a lado will show you where Peugeot is focusing its energies. The interior of the MG4 is practical but pales in comparison to the e-308 when it comes to premium crafting and materials quality. The Peugeot’s ride is also more compliant, while road and wind noise are better muted inside, making for a quieter drive. For those who want to feel a touch more premium, a little more sophisticated design, and a slightly quieter, more comfortable ride vs headline-grabbing value, the Peugeot e-308 has a strong case. It’s the pick for anyone who simply wants an EV that feels distinctive and refined in a way its more practical (and sometimes overtly sporty) competitors do not.
- Premium cabin materials: Enhance perceived quality and comfort over rivals.
- Balanced ride quality: Delivers a quieter, more relaxed driving experience.
- Classic design approach: Offers a familiar, reassuring environment for drivers who prefer understated luxury.
- More insulated and refined interior: Reduces fatigue and enhances long-distance comfort.
- Competitive real-world range: Provides practical usability alongside premium features.
- Stronger focus on comfort: Appeals to buyers seeking sophistication rather than flashy tech or the lowest possible price.
Is the Peugeot e-308 Your Ideal Electric Car?
After extensive testing, the Peugeot e-308 stands out as an exceptionally balanced and classy electric hatchback. It is forging its own identity in a crowded market, not by ramping up for the highest possible performance numbers or the lowest possible cost, but by being consistently premium and comfortable. The best bits are a well-executed blend of stylish design, an interior that punches above its weight, and efficient real-world performance. With the new 54 kWh battery pack and 115 kW electric motor, the driving experience is confident and calm, which makes it a truly delightful car to live with on a day-to-day basis. There’s no sacrificing comfort or refinement for this EV, that’s for sure.So, who will buy a Peugeot e-308? It is ideal for the everyday commuter who appreciates a tranquil, hassle-free ride and the additional comfort of knowing his walk back from a relaxed workday will be a little easier on the bank’s bottom line. Its nimble handling and responsive powertrain make city driving enjoyable, and its well-isolated interior turns a stuffed commute into a brief respite. The car is also a brilliant buy for youngish families and especially so in the intriguingly useful SW estate variant. With a generous boot and a cosy cabin, it will breeze through school runs, weekly shopping and weekend breaks. In general, it’ll be attractive to anyone who wants a good-looking, accessible, modern, and genuinely useful EV that feels well-engineered without being too experimental. The e-308 is a straight-shooting and proven in every dimension electric car that manages to surprise regularly with its combination of substance and style. It is not the quickest vehicle nor does it have the longest range in the market, but it does well in what matters most in day-to-day: comfort, quality and usability. I always felt like the car got a little better every time I drove it, transforming even the most mundane outings into fun drives. If you want an electric vehicle that offers high-end French style combined with real-world practicality and low running costs, the e-308 makes a strong case for itself as a highly credible choice that should definitely have your attention.Are you ready to say if the Peugeot e-308 is your best bet? We invite you to try its sophisticated drive. Book your test drive or delve into the specifications to unearth everything this phenomenal electric car has in store for you.
- Premium interior quality: Ensures comfort and sophistication on every journey
- 54 kWh battery and 115 kW motor: Delivers smooth, confident, and efficient performance for everyday use
- Low running costs: Offers significant savings thanks to home charging and zero road tax
- Nimble handling and quiet cabin: Makes commuting and family trips relaxing and enjoyable
- Practical SW estate option: Provides generous boot space and flexible seating for busy households
- Modern French design: Combines stylish aesthetics with user-friendly features
- Honest, well-balanced approach: A car that’s engineered for real-world needs, not just marketing headlines
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