The Peugeot 306 Break 2.0i, produced between 1997 and 2002, represents a practical and relatively sporty offering within the 306 range. As a station wagon (estate) variant of the popular 306, it aimed to provide family-friendly versatility without sacrificing the driving experience that Peugeot was becoming known for. This particular 2.0-liter, 132 horsepower version occupied a mid-range position in the Break lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base models while remaining more accessible than the high-performance XSi variants. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the station wagon body style held significant appeal.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 306 |
| Generation | 306 Break (7E) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (132 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) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg, 22.1 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4200 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFV XU10J4R |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 442 l (15.61 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1512 l (53.4 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 (Back) track | 1424-1432 mm (56.06 – 56.38 in.) |
| Front overhang | 815 mm (32.09 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 943 mm (37.13 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/55 R15 |
INTRODUCTION
The 306 Break 2.0i, launched in 1997 as part of the facelifted 306 range (often referred to as the Phase 2 model), built upon the success of the original 306 launched in 1993. The Break, or estate, body style was a crucial component of the 306’s appeal, offering a practical alternative to hatchbacks and sedans. The 2.0i variant, powered by the RFV engine, provided a balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle. It sat above the 1.6L and 1.8L models in terms of power, but below the more focused XSi and GTI trims.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 306 Break 2.0i lies the RFV XU10J4R engine, a 1998cc inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is a member of the XU series, a long-running and well-regarded Peugeot-Citroën engine family. The RFV version featured multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain for improved breathing and efficiency. The engine produced 132 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and drivability over outright performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a good spread of gears for both urban and highway driving. The transmission was known for its relatively smooth shift action, although it wasn’t particularly sporty in feel.
Driving Characteristics
The 306 Break 2.0i offered a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not a sports car, the 132 hp engine provided sufficient power for relaxed cruising and overtaking. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.2 seconds, and it had a top speed of approximately 125 mph. The 5-speed manual gearbox allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6L and 1.8L models, the 2.0i felt noticeably more responsive, particularly when fully loaded. However, it lacked the sharper handling and more aggressive engine characteristics of the XSi and GTI versions. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well, making it a pleasant long-distance cruiser.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 306 Break 2.0i typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included central locking, power steering, electric front windows, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with a practical and durable finish. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 2.0i offered a step up in interior trim quality compared to the base models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges and controls.
Chassis & Braking
The 306 Break featured a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension at the front and a trailing arm setup at the rear. This suspension configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking was handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The ABS system enhanced braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The steering was rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive control. Tire size was typically 195/55 R15, offering a good compromise between grip and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 306 Break 2.0i was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its practicality, comfortable ride, and reasonable performance. Compared to the lower-powered models, the 2.0i offered a noticeable improvement in drivability, making it a more enjoyable vehicle to drive on a regular basis. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its class, averaging around 33.6 US mpg on the extra-urban cycle. However, it wasn’t as fuel-efficient as the diesel-powered variants. Compared to the XSi and GTI models, the 2.0i offered a more affordable and practical option, sacrificing some performance for increased versatility.
Legacy
The Peugeot 306 Break 2.0i has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the XU10J4R engine being known for its durability. However, like any older vehicle, it is susceptible to age-related issues such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components. In the used car market today, the 306 Break 2.0i represents an affordable and practical option for those seeking a classic French estate car. Its combination of practicality, comfort, and reasonable performance continues to appeal to enthusiasts and those looking for a dependable family vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, although some specific trim pieces may be difficult to find. The 306 Break, in all its variants, remains a fondly remembered vehicle from Peugeot’s lineup.
