Peugeot E-308 SW: The Ultimate Electric Estate Car
The Peugeot E-308 SW has made an impressive entry into the electric estate car market, offering a touch of luxury and sophistication to a segment with limited options. While it may have a few drawbacks, such as less powerful performance and a sluggish infotainment system, the E-308 SW showcases excellent quality and refinement. In this comprehensive review, we will take a closer look at the specifications, performance, driving experience, interior features, practicality, safety, and running costs of the Peugeot E-308 SW. Whether you’re considering an electric estate or simply looking for a versatile and practical car, this review will help you make an informed decision.
Peugeot E-308 SW Models, Specs, and Prices
Just a few years ago, the electric estate car market was relatively small, with limited options available. However, Peugeot has introduced the E-308 SW as an electric version of its popular hatchback, offering a more upscale alternative to its competitors. The E-308 SW shares its platform with the Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Electric, both of which are part of the Stellantis group. In terms of rivals, the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Estate, SEAT Leon Estate, and Skoda Octavia Estate are worth considering if you’re not specifically looking for an electric vehicle.
Performance and Range
While some electric cars are known for their impressive acceleration, the Peugeot E-308 SW focuses more on providing a driving experience similar to that of a conventional car. Its electric motor delivers a maximum power of 154bhp in Sport mode and 134bhp in Normal mode. The E-308 SW comes with a 54kWh battery, which is expected to offer a range of up to 248 miles per charge. Charging times are reasonable, with 25 minutes required to charge from 20% to 80% at a public charging point. Additionally, the E-308 SW supports 11kW three-phase charging, which is convenient if you have a compatible home wallbox charger.
Insurance and Running Costs
As with most electric vehicles, insurance costs for the Peugeot E-308 SW are likely to be higher than those for petrol-powered cars. While specific insurance groups haven’t been confirmed, it’s advisable to expect a slightly higher premium compared to its competitors. However, the E-308 SW’s low running costs, including reduced fuel expenses and tax benefits, make it an attractive option for those looking to save money in the long run.
Driving Experience
Despite its larger size and weight compared to the standard E-308, the E-308 SW delivers an equally satisfying driving experience. The steering is responsive and reassuring, complemented by Peugeot’s compact steering wheel design. Ride quality strikes a good balance between comfort and dynamic handling, with minimal body roll and excellent grip through corners. The range of driving modes allows you to customize your driving experience, although it’s important to note that the full power of the motor is only available in Sport mode.
City and Long-Distance Driving
In urban environments, the E-308 SW feels surprisingly agile and maneuverable for its size. The electric motor delivers power in a manner similar to that of a combustion engine, providing a familiar driving experience. However, for longer journeys, careful route planning and consideration of charging stations are necessary to ensure a smooth trip. The ride quality on motorways is comfortable, although rear passenger headroom may be limited due to the car’s tapered roofline.
Interior Design and Infotainment System
Peugeot has made significant efforts to elevate the interior of the E-308 SW, aligning with its repositioning as a more upmarket brand. The cabin features high-quality materials, and the trademark i-Cockpit layout with a small steering wheel adds a unique touch. The infotainment system includes physical shortcut buttons and a touch-sensitive panel, allowing easy access to essential functions. However, the system can be slow at times, and the transition between screens may affect usability. Overall, the interior exudes a premium feel, although some aspects, such as the climate control interface, could benefit from physical dials.
Practicality and Boot Space
One of the main advantages of the E-308 SW over its hatchback counterpart is its larger boot space. With 548 litres of capacity with the rear seats up and 1,574 litres with them folded down, the E-308 SW offers ample storage for your needs. The low boot lip facilitates easy loading and unloading of heavy items, and there’s even space under the floor to store the charging cable. While rear passenger headroom may be limited due to the car’s design, the E-308 SW provides generous legroom and knee room, making it suitable for families and everyday use.
Safety Features
The Peugeot E-308 SW has yet to undergo Euro NCAP testing, but it shares many safety features with its petrol and diesel counterparts. These features include lane keep assist, driver attention alert, and an autonomous emergency braking system. However, Euro NCAP has rated the AEB system on the Peugeot 308 as sub-par, highlighting a potential area for improvement. The GT trim offers additional safety features such as rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane positioning assist.
Service Intervals and Warranty
Peugeot recommends servicing the E-308 SW annually or every 20,000 miles. The brand provides a certificate of battery capacity after each service, ensuring the battery’s optimal performance. The E-308 SW comes with a standard three-year warranty from the date of registration, with unlimited mileage for the first two years and a mileage limit of 60,000 miles for the third year. While this warranty is in line with industry standards, it falls short of the seven-year warranty offered by MG.
Should You Buy a Peugeot E-308 SW?
The Peugeot E-308 SW is an excellent choice for those seeking an electric estate car that stands out from the crowd. While it may be more expensive than its competitors, its premium features and refined driving experience make it a compelling option. However, if you prioritize affordability and don’t necessarily require an electric vehicle, the standard Peugeot 308 SW offers similar practicality at a significantly lower price. Additionally, the Skoda Octavia Estate provides superior boot space and overall versatility, making it a strong contender in this segment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Peugeot E-308 SW offers a sophisticated and high-quality electric estate car option. With its elegant design, comfortable driving experience, and practical features, it caters to the needs of families and individuals seeking a versatile and eco-friendly vehicle. While there may be some room for improvement in terms of performance and infotainment system responsiveness, the overall package makes the E-308 SW a worthy contender in the electric estate car market. Whether you prioritize style, sustainability, or practicality, the Peugeot E-308 SW is a car that deserves serious consideration.
