1997 Peugeot 306 Hatchback (facelift 1997) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the facelifted Peugeot 306 Hatchback ranges from 1030 kg to 1215 kg (approximately 2270 to 2679 pounds), depending on the specific trim and configuration. Its maximum allowable weight, which includes passengers and cargo, varies from 1480 kg to 1630 kg (3263 to 3594 pounds). This weight range reflects its compact design, contributing to nimble handling and efficiency, while allowing a practical payload capacity for a car of its class.

The Peugeot 306 Hatchback facelift offers a luggage capacity of 338 to 340 liters (11.9 to 12 cubic feet) with the rear seats in their standard upright position. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space significantly increases to between 640 liters and 1146 liters (22.6 to 40.5 cubic feet), making it versatile for carrying larger items or increased luggage for travel. This flexibility enhances its practicality as a compact family car.

The Peugeot 306 Hatchback facelift from 1997-2002 has a ground clearance of 120 mm (approximately 4.7 inches). This relatively low ride height benefits handling and aerodynamics, providing a sportier driving experience and stable road grip. However, it requires care on uneven terrain or speed bumps, as the lower clearance may pose challenges when encountering sharp obstacles or rough roads.

The facelifted Peugeot 306 Hatchback is equipped with tire sizes including 185/65 R14, 195/55 R15, and variants with speed ratings such as T, H, and V. Corresponding rim sizes are primarily 14 and 15 inches in diameter, matching these tire options. These sizes strike a good balance between ride comfort, handling precision, and tire availability, contributing to the vehicle’s responsive driving characteristics and everyday usability.

Yes, the Peugeot 306 Hatchback facelift fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4030 mm (158.7 inches) and width up to 1690 mm (66.5 inches), it is smaller than the average garage dimensions, which typically range around 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 2.4 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) in width. Its height of up to 1380 mm (54.3 inches) poses no issues for head clearance, making parking hassle-free for urban or suburban homeowners.

Compared to the pre-facelift Peugeot 306 models produced before 1997, the facelifted 306 Hatchback introduced subtle changes that slightly refined its dimensions. The length remained around 4030 mm, maintaining its compact form, while the width and height were modified slightly within the range of 1680-1690 mm and 1350-1380 mm respectively, providing marginally improved interior space and aerodynamic performance. Overall, the facelift focused more on styling and mechanical improvements rather than drastic size changes.

When compared with other popular compact hatchbacks from the late 1990s and early 2000s, such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk4 or Ford Focus first generation, the Peugeot 306 facelift is slightly shorter but with comparable width and height. The Golf Mk4, for instance, measures about 4215 mm (166 inches) in length, making the 306 more compact yet offering competitive luggage capacity and interior room. Its size makes it ideal for city driving while still competing well against European rivals in terms of space and functionality.

The Peugeot 306 Hatchback facelift (1997-2002) is recognized for its improved aerodynamics, updated front and rear styling, and refined interior design compared to earlier versions. Mechanically, it offered a range of petrol and diesel engines balancing performance and economy. It featured nimble handling, making it popular among drivers valuing agile city cars with a sporty touch. Safety improvements, better sound insulation, and upgraded trim options enhanced overall comfort and appeal during its production run.

The facelifted Peugeot 306 Hatchback offered various engine options, ranging from economical 1.1 and 1.4-liter petrol variants to more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline and turbocharged diesel engines. Fuel efficiency varied accordingly: smaller engines could achieve approximately 6-7 liters per 100 km (33-39 mpg US), while larger or sportier engines consumed more fuel. The car's lightweight design and aerodynamic improvements from the facelift helped maintain commendable performance and good fuel economy for a compact car of its era.