1994 Peugeot 306 XSi review from Australia and New Zealand

It's heavy on the front tires (replaced a year ago and I would say they've got another year in them before I get nervous) and also on brake pads - although that may be more to do with the thrill of coming to a swift halt than the car's fault.

I broke the steering rod on a gravel road - I suspect this is due to poor maintenance by the previous owner.

The key-less entry and central locking are shot; boot no longer lots. Ah, the French.

This is a really fun car to drive, it's got a heavy clutch, but around town it's peppy, very responsive in tight situations, but also very smooth. It's a dream to park. Get it out on the open road, however - generally above 3000rpm - and it just takes off; the noise from the sport exhaust is exhilarating. The harder you drive it (especially on rutted dirt roads, of which new Zealand has many) the better it drives.

You get a lot of feedback from the road - I rather like this, you feel like you're really driving it, rather than just turning the steering wheel. This does, however, have a tendency to upset passengers with fragile tummies...

I've replaced the standard stereo with a JVC CD unit (original just had a tape deck) and the standard speakers are terrific.

My only real gripe is that it's a little thirsty, especially when it's getting close to a service and a tune.