The 2026 308 Hybrid is the compact hatchback with an automatic gearbox and Peugeot's petrol-electric hybrid system (most recent 308 hybrids are plug‑in capable on the Irish market). Expect lower running costs in town and on commutes but also extra checks: the high-voltage battery and charging equipment are important items, and the e‑automatic gearbox will need software/maintenance at intervals. New cars come with manufacturer warranties but confirm the exact hybrid-battery warranty and whether the dealer has applied all available software updates.

• If it's a plug‑in variant: that the charging cable(s) are present and the charge port and seals are undamaged; test that the car will charge and reports an EV range.
• Hybrid battery state-of-health/readout and any stored hybrid-system fault codes on the dealer's diagnostic check.
• Automatic gearbox behaviour on a test drive — smooth changes, no hesitation on acceleration or rough shift transitions (listen for torque-converter shudder).
• Regenerative braking feel and that the petrol engine restarts smoothly after extended EV driving (no warning lights or limp-mode behaviour).
• Tyre specification and manufacture date, and a quick walkaround for dealer-prep damage to paint and underbody (new cars sometimes get scuffs during transport).