Motoring - Total driving pleasure

The 308 is Peugeot's latest offering to the family hatchback segment, a rival for the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf and - according to Peugeot - a higher quality product than the 307 which went before it.

It shares much of its predecessor's styling, with similar sweeping headlights and a tall roofline allowing for greater cabin space. But the 308 is slightly wider, longer and heavier than before. It also gets a new range of engines including the 1.6 turbo motor from the Mini Cooper S and a totally redesigned interior with a much-needed makeover.

Now the cabin benefits from typically elegant French styling with extensive soft-touch mouldings, an inclined fascia and almost-retro dials and switches. Glass has been used extensively - high-end models get a vast panoramic roof, which is great if you're a passenger and offers excellent all-round visibility. Touches like these lend the 308 an unexpected high-quality feel, matching the best Volkswagen has to offer with a bit more flair.

It's an upmarket impression that's maintained when you get going, where the 308 rides quietly, supply and is generally more civilised than many of its rivals. Carrying speed on a twisting road, we were impressed by the 308's handling which allowed for fluid progress despite the softer, more forgiving suspension. However, with bigger wheels (particularly the biggest 18-inch alloys) the 308 loses some of its refinement and poise - much better to stick with the standard 16s.

Unsurprisingly, our best drive was had in a 308 with the 150bhp 1.6-litre turbo Mini engine under the bonnet. We know this engine loves to rev and, as it's lighter than the diesel units, the front end is noticeably keener to get into corners. If you need something more sensible, then the 1.6-litre HDi 110 diesel offers a decent blend of fun and frugality - it's expected to be the 308's most popular powertrain, though its five speed gearbox could do with a sixth cog for motorways. The 2.0-litre diesel models are overpriced and worth avoiding.

If you're in the market for a family hatch, the 308 should be on your top three list of considerations alongside the VW Golf and Ford Focus, although both of these offer a slightly more engaging drive. But the 308 offers other advantages - notably the glass roof and that quality-finished, elegant interior. Alongside the three- and five-door versions there could also be a good-looking, lightweight 308 coupé - previewed in concept from as the RC-Z - which would be powered by the 1.6-litre turbo with the wick turned up. Watch this space.

With or without this exciting sporty version, the 308 is a return to form for Peugeot which offers a renewed quality feel and the decent driving dynamics for which their small cars were once renowned.

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