Which compact car reigns supreme? discover the surprising winner in ford focus vs peugeot 308

In the competitive realm of compact hatchbacks, two formidable contenders stand out: the Ford Focus and the Peugeot 308. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, practicality, and performance. However, they also possess distinct characteristics that may sway buyers in one direction or the other. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the Ford Focus vs. Peugeot 308, examining their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Engine Options

Under the hood, the Ford Focus and Peugeot 308 offer a range of engine options to cater to different driving needs and preferences. The Focus features a turbocharged 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine with 125 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with a more powerful 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the Peugeot 308 boasts a 1.2-liter PureTech engine with 130 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more performance, the 308 GT model offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 225 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy and Emissions

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Ford Focus and Peugeot 308 both deliver impressive numbers. The Focus with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine offers slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The Peugeot 308 with the 1.2-liter PureTech engine achieves an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway. The 308 GT model, with its more powerful engine, has slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Ford Focus has long been renowned for its agile handling and precise steering. It offers a well-balanced and composed ride, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The Peugeot 308, on the other hand, prioritizes comfort over outright sportiness. Its suspension provides a softer ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. While it may not be as sharp as the Focus in corners, the 308 offers a more relaxed and comfortable driving experience.

Interior Space and Comfort

When it comes to interior space, the Ford Focus and Peugeot 308 offer comparable dimensions. Both vehicles provide ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. However, the Peugeot 308 has a slightly larger trunk capacity, with 20.2 cubic feet of space compared to the Focus’s 18.9 cubic feet. In terms of comfort, both vehicles offer supportive seats and a well-appointed cabin. The Focus features a straightforward and intuitive dashboard layout, while the 308 boasts a more stylish and modern interior with a prominent touchscreen infotainment system.

Technology and Features

The Ford Focus and Peugeot 308 come equipped with a range of advanced technology and features to enhance the driving experience. The Focus offers an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also features a variety of driver-assist technologies, including lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Peugeot 308 features a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Additionally, it offers a range of advanced driver-assist technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.

Safety and Reliability

Both the Ford Focus and Peugeot 308 have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Focus earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all IIHS crash tests. The 308 also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick++” rating from the IIHS. In terms of reliability, both vehicles have received mixed reviews from owners. The Focus has been known to experience some minor mechanical issues, while the 308 has been praised for its overall reliability.

Pricing and Value

The Ford Focus has a starting price of $20,000 for the base S trim. The top-of-the-line Titanium trim starts at $26,000. The Peugeot 308 has a starting price of $25,000 for the base Active trim. The top-of-the-line GT trim starts at $32,000. In terms of value, both vehicles offer a competitive package of features, performance, and safety for their respective price points. The Focus offers a more affordable entry point, while the 308 provides a more premium experience with a higher starting price.

Which Car is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Focus and Peugeot 308 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize agile handling, fuel efficiency, and a lower price point, the Focus is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more comfortable ride, a larger trunk, and a more stylish interior, the 308 is a compelling option. Both vehicles offer a strong combination of features, performance, and safety, making them worthy contenders in the compact hatchback segment.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which car has better fuel economy?
A: The Peugeot 308 with the 1.2-liter PureTech engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Focus with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine.

Q: Which car has a more spacious interior?
A: The Peugeot 308 has a slightly larger trunk capacity than the Ford Focus. Otherwise, both vehicles offer comparable interior space.

Q: Which car has more advanced technology features?
A: The Peugeot 308 features a larger touchscreen infotainment system and offers a wider range of advanced driver-assist technologies compared to the Ford Focus.