Ask the expert: What is the best replacement for a troublesome Peugeot?
My Peugeot 308 broke down after displaying a 'low oil' warning. The garage noted issues with the wet timing belt, which was replaced and the oil feed cleared. I have a dilemma now – face another (presumably) big bill if this sort of fault happens again, or bite the bullet and look for something more reliable. Reliability is a key priority, though cost is also a concern. I favour estates for the boot space. I usually go for petrol but would consider a hybrid. What do you suggest?
– DD
Dear DD,
In these 'wet belt' engines, the timing belt runs in the oil but may eventually degrade and contaminate the lubricant. At least on this occasion the oil starvation wasn't so significant as to cause engine damage.
However, it's never a good idea for any engine to run with reduced oil pressure for any length of time, with the consequent fears for long-term reliability.
That, combined with the prospect of more wet belt reliability issues (or, at the very least, costly replacement at regular intervals) leads me to suggest it probably is time to get rid of your 308.
What to replace it with? You don't mention a budget, but if you can afford it my immediate thought would be a Toyota Corolla Touring Sports. If you're after reliability, Toyota sits at the top of the tree, while its warranty offer of up to 10 years is the best in the business.
The 2.0-litre version offers more poke than the slightly anaemic 1.8. Prices for a tidy example with average mileage and a full history start at about £15,000.
If that's a bit steep, how about a Kia ProCeed? It has been a bit forgotten in recent years, but its stylish looks hide a surprising amount of practicality; with the balance of a seven-year warranty and a solid reliability record, a ProCeed should be dependable. The 1.4-litre petrol turbo is respectably peppy, too.
You'll have to pay at least £12,000 for a tidy example with decent mileage; I found a 2019 model with a full history and 53,000 miles for £12,445
If you require even more practicality, the Skoda Octavia Estate has a boot that's even larger than that of your 308. Go for a 1.4-litre with a recent timing belt change and a good history – you should be able to find one in plush SE L specification for about £11,000.
Granted, the Octavia's reliability record isn't quite as solid as the Kia or Toyota. But the payoff is that the interior is slightly smarter, the ride is more comfortable – and, of course, the boot is much bigger.
All of these would make a worthy replacement for your not-so-trusty Peugeot – but if reliability and running costs are key, the Toyota would be my choice.
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