The newest iteration of the 308CC droptop asks a peculiarly French question of potential owners: are you willing to become an accessory to a beautiful cabriolet, or do you see fit to have it be an accessory of a luxurious lifestyle.

There’s no questioning the lines of the Peugeot convertible, whose hardtop manages to provide an attractive look no matter up or down. Even the interior speaks of a quality that you would find on the suit you wear to interviews or the best dress in the closet. But the 308CC also acts like the tight shoes that you only wear when you have to walk a few metres to your destination, forcing you to choose between looks and comfort.

Let’s start with what is normally a question of how many, in this case cupholder. The 308CC has none. While it’s a very easy number to count, it fits in with the mentality of the Peugeot that is found in the miniscule glove compartment and overall storage capabilities. This is clearly a car to be seen in and admired by onlookers.

If you manage to get the driver and the front-seat passenger well sorted before a drive, try not to ruin friendships by making anyone else sit in the backseat, it simply won’t happen with the 308CC. Once you do turn on the engine, however, you’ll find a decently peppy powertrain in either the petrol or the available diesel.

Steering is decent, if not amazing, though for a pair on a night out the interior and the view more than makes up for the lack of friskiness. On the other hand, the handling that works well on smooth roads can transmit potholes or other road issues with surprising ease, ruining an otherwise enjoyable experience with the top up or down.

Speaking of the top, it doesn’t have the glass of its competitors, nor does it respond with particular alacrity to commands upwards or downwards. At a shade over 20 seconds, you won’t want to attempt the switch outside of a parking lot or other rest area. On the other hand, when it is up you do have a quietness that allows you to take in the quality of the interior and of your companion for the evening.

But we’re back to the tight, pointy shoes issue. The Pug relies a lot on its styling, much like a pair of heels that lead to blisters and a lot of discomfort. For two, it’s a great bet, outside of the aforementioned issues. You could do just as well with the other convertibles in its range if you’re willing to forgo the styling of the 308 CC. But then, you might feel like you’re wearing your car, when the 308 CC would love to add you as the final accessory to its collection.

Specifications:
Engine: 2.0-litre, four cylinder
Power: 100kW@4000rpm
Torque: 320Nm@2000rpm
Induction: Multipoint injected, turbocharged
Transmission: Six speed automatic
Driven Wheels: Front
Brakes: Discs with ABS, EBA & EBD
Top Speed: 202km/h
0-100km/h: 11.8 seconds
CO2 Emissions: 185g/km
Fuel Consumption: (ADR) 7.0 litres/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 litres
Fuel Type: Diesel
ANCAP Rating: Five-stars
Airbags: Six
Safety: ESC with TC; Roll over pop up bars
Spare Wheel: Full size alloy
Suspension: Macpherson strut (F) / Multi-link (R)
Cargo Capacity: 465 litres (Roof Up) /266 litres (Roof Down)
Tow Capacity: N/A
Turning Circle: 10.7m
Warranty: Three years/100,000km
Weight: 1695kg (Tare)
Wheels: 17-inch alloy