The Peugeot 306 Break 1.9 TDi (90 hp) was a popular station wagon variant produced between 1997 and 2002, falling within the second generation (Phase 2) of the 306 series, designated the 7E. Positioned as a practical and economical choice, it offered a diesel-powered alternative to the petrol-fueled models, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and load-carrying capacity. This variant played a significant role in Peugeot’s European sales, offering a compelling package for families and businesses alike. It was a key offering in the compact estate segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Focus Estate and Renault 19 Estate.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 306 |
| Generation | 306 Break (7E) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TDi (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 2250 rpm (143.82 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D8A XUD9TE |
| Engine displacement | 1905 cm3 (116.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1655 kg (3648.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4338 mm (170.79 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1423-1433 mm (56.02 – 56.42 in.) |
| Rear track | 1424-1432 mm (56.06 – 56.38 in.) |
| Front overhang | 815 mm (32.09 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 943 mm (37.13 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 306 Break 1.9 TDi was the D8A XUD9TE engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was a mainstay of Peugeot and Citroën vehicles throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. It utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common diesel technology of the era, where fuel was injected into a small pre-chamber before entering the main combustion chamber. This design aided in smoother combustion and reduced engine noise compared to direct injection systems. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. The turbocharger, a key component, significantly boosted power output, bringing it to 90 horsepower. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The gearbox ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.9 TDi engine, while not particularly powerful, offered a respectable level of performance for everyday driving. Acceleration was adequate, taking around 14.1 seconds to reach 62 mph, but the engine’s strength lay in its torque. The 195 Nm (143.82 lb-ft) of torque, available from 2250 rpm, provided good pulling power for overtaking and carrying loads. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, but the gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy over outright acceleration. Compared to the petrol-powered 1.6L or 2.0L versions, the 1.9 TDi offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The turbocharger did introduce a degree of turbo lag, meaning there was a slight delay between pressing the accelerator and feeling the power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 306 Break 1.9 TDi typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. Interior features included cloth upholstery, a basic dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Power steering was standard, making maneuvering easier. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally, the 1.9 TDi sat in the mid-range of the 306 Break lineup, offering a good balance of features and affordability. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and more advanced audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The 306 Break featured a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension utilized independent wishbones, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employed a trailing arm setup, which was cost-effective but less sophisticated than independent rear suspension. Braking was handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a responsive and easy driving experience. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 306 Break 1.9 TDi was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted the engine’s lack of refinement and the presence of turbo lag. Compared to other trims in the 306 lineup, the 1.9 TDi offered the best fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. It was also considered more reliable than some of the more complex petrol engines. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Estate and Renault 19 Estate, the 306 Break 1.9 TDi offered a competitive package in terms of price, fuel economy, and practicality.
Legacy
The D8A XUD9TE engine, found in the 306 Break 1.9 TDi, is known for its durability and relatively simple construction. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. Today, the 306 Break 1.9 TDi is a relatively affordable used car, appealing to buyers looking for a practical and economical estate car. Parts availability is generally good, and the engine is relatively easy to work on for experienced mechanics. While not a particularly sought-after classic, the 306 Break 1.9 TDi remains a testament to Peugeot’s commitment to building practical and reliable vehicles.
