A startrescue.co.uk story...

Heady from winning the Car of the Year Award with the 308, Peugeot has launched an estate version of the car – the 308 SW.

The 127mph three cylinder version has a lot to live up to. What does the UK's motoring press think of it?

TopGear

The website incarnation of the popular TV series is very keen on the looks of the 308 SW, preferring them to those of the standard edition. TG also likes the car's generous space – and the seven seat option.

The fuel economy is praised, but the TG team fear that the residual value of this French saloon will drop off more quickly than similarly priced rivals.

TopGear gives the 308 SW a disappointing 4/10.

Telegraph

The Telegraph is a lot more enthused by the 308 SW, giving a thumbs-up for the turbo engine and its spaciousness. The wisdom of the big wheel option is played down, plus the dashboard doesn't impress. However, The Telegraph likes the car's build quality, giving the 308 SW 4/5 stars overall.

AutoExpress

The car lovers at AutoExpress are also a lot more upbeat about the 308 SW, awarding it points for practicality, the smooth diesel engine unit, as well as impressive CO2 figures. They don't however, like the driving position, are less keen on the cabin build quality, as well as being unimpressed by the low speed ride quality.

Of the eight engines available for the 308 SW, four are petrol. Of these, the 1.2-litre e-THP 130 is favoured by AutoExpress, offering as it does smooth revs, gear flexibility and a fun 128bhp.

Despite the issues mentioned, AutoExpress gives the 308 SW a healthy 4/5 stars.

Engine reliability

The Peugeot has increased reliability in recent years, but is still seen as less solid long-term than rivals; it did poorly in a recent engine reliability survey by Warranty Direct (6th worst), making it a more common sight for car breakdown cover providers, therefore less good value for buyers.