Comparison:Peugeot 308 2025 (new) Vs. Renault Mégane 2022 (new)

Dimensions

Stretching out, the Peugeot 308 boasts a length of 4367 mm, exceeding the Megane's more compact 4200 mm. However, the Megane edges forward with a 2685 mm wheelbase, a stretch longer than the 308's 2675 mm, implying potential for a roomier cabin. Width is another battleground, with the 308's 1852 mm and 2062 mm (including mirrors) outshining the Megane's narrower 1768 mm and 2055 mm, respectively. Vertical aspirations see the Megane soaring to 1505 mm, peering down upon the 308's 1441 mm. Turning the tides, or rather circles, the Megane's tighter 10.40 m turning circle is notably more urban-friendly than the 308's 10.50-10.70 m. Furthermore, a higher ground clearance at 135 mm benefits the Megane's off-road pretensions.

Boot/interior

Boot space is a pivotal point, with the Peugeot 308 offering a variable haven of 361-608 liters, while the Renault Megane maintains a steadier hold with 389 liters. However, the tables turn with the seats down: the 308 offers a cavernous 1323 liters up to the roof, overshadowing the Megane's 1245 liters. Both are fitted with 5 seats and Isofix as a standard, beckoning families to take their pick.

Engines/drivetrain

The Peugeot 308 has a range of gear options, with as few as 1 to as many as 8 for the smooth shifting '1.2 PureTech 130 Active Pack EAT8', while the Renault Megane stands firm with a single gear system. Cylinder count in the 308 ranges from 3 to 4, promising variety in performance choices. Max speed sees the 308 reaching for the stars at 235 km/h, far surpassing the Megane's more modest 160 km/h. Power output paints a similar portrait; the 308 flexes with 81-165 kW against the Megane's 96-160 kW. The Peugeot's minimum torque of 205 Nm is less impressive than the Megane's 250 Nm, though its upper range of 360 Nm does take the higher ground. Peugeot also allows for quicker acceleration from 0-100 km/h, ranging between 7.5 to 10.9 seconds compared to the Renault's 7.4 to 10.5 seconds, indicating a fierce match-up.

Consumption/ecology

Fueling up, the Peugeot 308's tank varies from 40 to 53 liters, accommodating engines from the '1.6 HYBRID 180 Active Pack e-EAT8' to the diesel '1.5 BlueHDi 130 Active Pack'. CO2 emissions swing notably from a meager 24.0 g to a sizeable 129.0 g, showing the breadth of the 308's eco-footprint. In the arena of noise, the 308 murmurs at 65-68 dB, slightly louder than the Megane's 64 dB whisper.

Weight/towing

Getting onto the scales, the Peugeot 308's weight fluctuates between 1329 to 1791 kg, providing options for those mindful of weight. It carries a permissible total weight of up to 2175 kg and can tow a respectable 1600 kg with brakes applied. The Renault Megane sticks close in this tug-of-war, with a towing capacity up to 900 kg. On the roof, the 308 supports up to 85 kg, while assessing the weight on a towbar, the Megane carries a heavier load with 80 kg.

Offroad

While neither vehicle is designed as a dedicated off-roader, understanding their capabilities and limits is key for those occasional adventures beyond the tarmac. The higher ground clearance of the Renault Megane, for example, could be a deciding factor for prospective buyers with light off-roading intentions.

EV

Electric range is the currency of the future, and in this regard, the Renault Megane takes a lead with a 300-470 km range, compared to the Peugeot 308's 57-415 km range. Battery capacity is also on Renault's side with a hearty 40-60 kWh range versus Peugeot's 12.4-54.0 kWh. However, the Peugeot's lighter battery could contribute to a more nimble driving experience. With its 1-phase charging system, the Renault Megane makes for an accommodating electric partner.