1995 Peugeot 306 XSi review from UK and Ireland
"Capable, reliable and huge fun!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Split coolant hose.
Broken remote locking "plipper".
Alarm a bit temperamental.
General comments?
One of the most underrated cars in existence.
Despite moderate power, the engine is wonderful - one of the torquiest and most responsive petrol units I've ever driven. The car can be driven ridiculously quickly using only 5,000 RPM and it will keep up with a friend's S16 unless he red-lines his car, and even then the difference ain't that great. Feels much faster at low revs / part throttle too, and returns 5 mpg extra to boot.
Chassis and steering are an object lesson - this car talks to you and lets you push it hard in complete confidence. At the limit, the throttle can be used to steer the car almost as effectively as the steering wheel. As for understeer - it doesn't exist unless you're asking the impossible. Truly brilliant.
A few niggling problems but overall, reliability is good. This car has depth to its ability. Handling apart, it won't immediately wow you like some rivals, but I am struggling to find any current equivalent that is anywhere near as enjoyable to drive as this six year old "warm hatch".
A masterpiece.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 8v Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 66000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 91000 miles |
| Previous car | Peugeot 106 |
| Date of Entry | 5th September, 2001 |