The Peugeot 306, produced from 1993 to 2002, was a small family car designed and manufactured by the French automaker Peugeot. The facelifted version introduced in 1997 brought revised styling and minor mechanical updates. Among the various engine and transmission combinations offered, the 1.4i variant with 75 horsepower and a five-speed manual transmission represented an entry-level option, particularly popular in European markets where fuel efficiency and affordability were key considerations. Production of this specific configuration ran from 1997 to 2002, serving as a practical and economical choice within the 306 range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 306 |
| Generation | 306 Hatchback (facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4i (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 156 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 72.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm, 116.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 3400 rpm (88.51 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | KFX TU3JP |
| Engine displacement | 1361 cm3 (83.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1030 kg (2270.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 338 l (11.94 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1146 l (40.47 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Length | 4030 mm (158.66 in.) |
| Width | 1689 mm (66.5 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| 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 | Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 T |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.4i engine in the 306 facelift utilized the Peugeot KFX (TU3JP) engine code. This is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder engine with a displacement of 1361cc. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing a balance between efficiency and performance. The engine produced 75 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 120 Nm of torque at 3400 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was a standard offering, providing adequate gear ratios for everyday driving. This engine was known for its simplicity and relative reliability, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4i 306 offered modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 12.3 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 105.63 mph. While not particularly quick, the engine provided sufficient power for urban and highway driving. The five-speed gearbox allowed for reasonable control over engine speed, and the gear ratios were well-suited to maximizing fuel economy. Compared to higher-output versions of the 306, such as the 2.0i 16V, the 1.4i felt noticeably slower, but it offered a more relaxed and economical driving experience. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience than the optional automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4i model typically represented the base trim level of the 306 range. Standard equipment generally included power steering, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and a radio/cassette player. The 306 offered a range of trim levels, with higher-spec models featuring more luxurious appointments and additional equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The 306 utilized a trailing arm rear suspension, a common design for compact cars of the era. The front suspension employed a MacPherson strut setup. Braking was provided by ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The braking system was adequate for everyday use, but lacked the stopping power of more advanced systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4i 306 was well-received as an affordable and economical option in the small family car segment. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and practicality, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other engines in the 306 lineup, such as the 1.6i and 2.0i, the 1.4i offered lower running costs but less excitement. It competed with other popular hatchbacks of the time, such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Renault Megane.
Legacy
The 1.4i Peugeot 306 remains a relatively common sight on used car markets, particularly in Europe. The KFX engine is known for its durability and ease of maintenance, making it a reliable choice for budget-conscious buyers. While not a particularly collectible model, the 1.4i 306 represents a practical and affordable example of 1990s French automotive engineering. Parts availability is generally good, and the car’s simple design makes it relatively easy to repair. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its practicality and reliability.
