With the rise of the all-conquering SUV, the automotive world has witnessed the slow decline in popularity of the large family hatchback and saloon and that’s a shame. But they have not gone away completely and, whether with a traditional boot or a rising hatch, this sector of cars continues to be available. That’s why it is good to see that the French manufacturer Peugeot has not yet given up on this type of model and furthermore it is still possible to import this car from Japan. There’s a choice of 508 models too: a Fastback, a regular saloon and an estate car (station wagon), with sporting variants.
The Style
The Peugeot 508 has moved with the times and now features sleek styling and a very classy interior and with technology to match. As a premium car, it is similar in concept to the Kia Stinger from Korea.
The latest 508 certainly looks the part with cool frameless doors and a grown-up design that competes with and in some cases improves upon some of its prestige German rivals. The front features a striking set of vertical LED daytime running lights, a sharp grille and slim headlamps.
From the side the Peugeot 508 Fastback specifically appears more compact than some competitors, belying the roomy interior. This has a little less headroom in the back than the regular saloon and for those who prefer more space and practicality, there’s the estate car. Most recently, a plug-in hybrid has joined the ranks.
At the back the simple, modern design has ‘claw-effect’ rear lights that sit in a black bar that runs the width of the car. Twin tail pipes hint at the performance potential.
On The Inside
The inside of this car is of a very high quality. Peugeot have put a strong focus on the interior design. The 508 is competitively priced but the interior looks more expensive than that, especially with superb leather electrically-adjustable seats.
Peugeot’s now familiar i-Cockpit dashboard design with the small steering wheel is driver focused. With its piano-key main switches, you either like it or you don’t and it seems the majority of drivers do. As with most premium vehicles most of the functions are accessed via the multi-media touchscreen or the steering wheel controls.
There is the full complement of safety equipment, including as an option a pack (standard on the GT Fastback) that includes Night Vision (extra cost), Park Assist, Park Drive Assist Plus, Security Pack, infra-red camera and sensors & radars.
On The Road
The 508 is powered by latest-generation PureTech (petrol) and diesel BlueHDi engines complaint with the latest Euro standards. Two petrol variant power outputs are available, based on a 1.6L unit, the most powerful of which offers the sporting driver 225bhp. Three diesels are also available, either 1.5L and 2.0L. The 2.0L diesel is great, delivering on both power and economy.
Out on the highway is where this car truly comes into its own. Most models offer active suspension which is standard on all petrol models variants, remaining very comfortable even at motorway speeds. There’s virtually no noise from the engine or wind noise from the mirrors or the road. The small steering wheel makes the 508 nimble to manoeuvre making for an enjoyable driving experience. In short, this is a very refined car. Highly recommended.
