The Peugeot 308 SW is bigger and better

THERE was widespread, justified acclaim for Peugeot’s second-generation 308 when it was unveiled in 2013. It won the European Car of the Year award, and the French concern moved upmarket.

But, much as I liked the hatchback models, I recently tried the SW station-wagon version and, truthfully, it is a car with which Peugeot can carry the sales fight to its rivals with great confidence.

The SW has, thanks to a longer wheelbase (110mm more than standard), obviated complaint about interior space — rear leg-room, specifically — that slightly tainted the overall feelgood factor of the hatchback. But this car will appeal to a broader market than its siblings do.