Peugeot 306 (1993 - 2001)

Excellent ride and handling combination and a joy to drive.

Best in class until Focus came along.

90bhp 1.6 TU is a decent petrol engine for a family car - very nicely balanced.

167 bhp 2.0 litre GTi-6 is track-car quick with roadholding and handling to match, plus a six-speed gearbox.

All capable of 150,000-plus miles if properly looked after. Non-turbo XUD can do 50 mpg. D-Turbo surprisingly quick. 

Three-Star 'above average' performance in NCAP crash tests. 

3-year warranty from January 2000. 

Sedan saloon (from 1994) has a rear screen wiper. 306 cabriolets (from 1994) and estate cars (from 1996) continued after the launch of the 307.