From Towcar Awards 2008

List price: £18,545 (when tested)
Kerbweight: 1496kg
85% Match: 1272kg
Maximum towing limit: 1700kg
Towball limit: 61kg

BY SMALL HATCH standards, the 308 is something of a heavyweight. Just shy of 1.5 tonnes, its 85% match figure of 1272kg means it will tow lots of family four-berths.

Luckily, it has the brawn to go with the heft. The 2.0-litre diesel engine puts out 240lb/ft of torque. Our test outfit accelerated from 30-60mph in 15.7 seconds. The engine is smooth as well as strong, with good economy, too. The official combined figure promises 51.4mpg.

Stable and secure

In the lane-change test, the 308 was stable and secure. Unhitched, however, the ride is too firm and steering feels numb, while rear-seat legroom is tight compared with the Focus or Golf. The low maximum noseweight is also a concern. A shame, because as a towcar the 308 acquits itself well.

We say
Towing: 4/5
Solo: 3/5
Practicality: 3/5
Buying & owning: 3/5

Verdict: 3/5. Better as a towcar than a solo drive. Smooth engine is a plus.

Braking 30-0mph: 10.97m