2000 Peugeot 306 1.8 Meridian 5dr review from UK and Ireland

Recently the O2 sensor in the induction system has been playing up. And almost at the same time the driver's door lock servo has packed up, meaning the remote central looking won't work.

I bought this car mainly because of its positive handling characteristics, and - more over - its affordable insurance bracket. I couldn't afford anything with a big engine and rear wheel drive (I’m under 25) so I had to go for something with a decent front drive chassis which makes the most of its relatively meager power. French hatchbacks was the route I decided to pursue and the pug 306 stood out (particularly as a couple of friends had had them in the past and sung their praises) and now I know why.

Moving from a 1.2 Ren. Clio to a 1.8 16v was a bit of a step, but I soon got used to the extra power (indeed after nearly 10k miles its feeling pretty sedate now and I'm ready for something a bit more powerful). But it’s been a great car for building up experience on the road.

I love how chuckable it is in the corners, and for nipping about urban areas. But it's a bit choppy at high speeds, and can be a little tiring on the motorways with all the wind and tyre noise etc.

The ride is OK. It can crash about a bit on the pot holes, but nothing serious, it’s also a bit squeeky/rattley, but the build qualities been better than I thought it would be.

I’m also one for creature comforts, and the pug makes a fair fist of delivering these. The Meridian spec. has half leather, elec. windows and mirrors, electric air con. And four airbags. Which is nice.

Now I'm a bit older, I can afford something a bit quicker, and with rear wheel drive so I'll be looking to change my car, but the pug has served me well, soaking up the abuse and providing a decent driving experience. It's been a good intermediary car for someone still learning the ropes of quick road driving, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.