- Peugeot 508 review: A Brief Journey Through History
- How does the Peugeot 508 perform?
- How is the Peugeot 508 to drive?
- What is the interior like?
- How practical is the Peugeot 508?
- Price and competitors
- What features are available as standard?
- Peugeot 508 Review Summary: Should you buy, finance, or lease one?
We see in this Peugeot 508 review, that the manufacturer’s classy medium-range 508 model has sharpened up its act with this improved version of the second-generation design.
Aimed at offering a classier approach to the D segment motoring, it delivers an appealing combination of style and savoir-faire. Life’s too short for boring cars.
In an era dominated by SUVs, this model stands out as a beacon of individuality, offering both five-door fastback and estate body styles.
Its distinct character beckons those seeking a departure from the ordinary, presenting a compelling alternative to premium-badge rivals.
A Brief Journey Through History
Peugeot‘s lineage of distinguished D-segment designs traces back through the decades, from the iconic 403 of the ’50s to the sleek 505 of the ’80s.
With the advent of front-wheel drive in the 405, the brand embarked on a journey of reinvention.
However, the launch of the second-generation Peugeot 508 in 2018 marked a significant turning point, garnering positive attention and sales success.
How does the Peugeot 508 perform?
Step into the Peugeot 508, and you’re greeted by the revolutionary “i-Cockpit” layout, a hallmark of ergonomic design.
While traditional diesel engines are no longer available, the focus has shifted towards plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants.
The PHEV powertrain delivers a balance of efficiency and performance, complemented by the brand’s signature sporty handling characteristics.
The compact steering wheel and configurable instrument screen epitomise a fusion of form and function.
Whether propelled by petrol, hybrid, or sport-engineered powertrains, the Peugeot 508 delivers a harmonious blend of performance and efficiency in this review.
How is the Peugeot 508 to drive?
Behind the wheel, the Peugeot 508 offers a refreshing departure from its competitors.
The “i-Cockpit” dashboard design may divide opinions, but its ergonomic layout and intuitive controls enhance the overall driving experience.
With responsive handling and refined suspension tuning, the 508 strikes a fine balance between comfort and agility on the road.
What is the interior like?
Step inside, and you’re enveloped in a world of luxury and sophistication.
From the exquisite stitching to the ambient lighting, every detail reflects Peugeot’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship.
The advanced i-Connect infotainment system seamlessly integrates with modern connectivity features, ensuring a seamless driving experience.
The i-Cockpit layout places essential controls within easy reach, while premium materials and thoughtful details create a sophisticated ambience.
How practical is the Peugeot 508?
While the Peugeot 508 prioritises style, it doesn’t compromise on practicality.
The 508 provides sufficient legroom and comfort for rear passengers, making it suitable for both commuting and long journeys.
The Peugeot 508 offers generous boot space, making it ideal for both daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Ample storage options, including spacious door bins and a generous boot capacity, ensure convenience for everyday use.
Thoughtful touches like cup holders and USB ports enhance convenience, while the panoramic glass roof adds a touch of opulence.
Price and Competitors
While premium-badge alternatives command a hefty price premium, the Peugeot 508 offers a compelling value proposition.
With prices starting from £34,000, it combines affordability with sophistication, making luxury motoring accessible to discerning drivers.
While it may command a slight premium over some mainstream models, the 508 offers exceptional value for its combination of style, performance, and features.
Competitors such as the Citroën C5X, Skoda Superb, and Volkswagen Arteon provide alternative options in the medium-range segment.
Standard Specification Overview
The standard specification of the Peugeot 508 offers a comprehensive set of features across all models, ensuring a high level of comfort, convenience, and safety for drivers and passengers alike.
Exterior Features:
The Peugeot 508 boasts an array of exterior features designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
The inclusion of Matrix LED headlights ensures optimal visibility in various driving conditions, while keyless entry adds convenience by allowing easy access to the vehicle.
A reversing camera, along with parking sensors, assists drivers in manoeuvring the vehicle safely, especially in tight spaces.
Additionally, power-folding mirrors provide added convenience when parking or navigating through narrow passages.
The presence of dark-tinted rear side and tailgate windows not only adds to the vehicle’s sleek appearance but also enhances privacy for rear passengers.
Interior Features:
Inside the cabin, occupants are treated to a host of comfort and convenience features.
Heated seats with lumbar adjustment ensure a pleasant driving experience, particularly during colder weather.
The rear armrest with a ski hatch adds versatility by allowing for easy transportation of longer items such as skis.
The i-Cockpit instrument binnacle, centred around a configurable 12.3-inch digital display, provides drivers with essential vehicle information at a glance.
Infotainment needs are catered to by a 10-inch touchscreen display, offering features such as Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.
Furthermore, the inclusion of a premium audio system ensures an immersive listening experience for all occupants.
Safety and Drive Features:
Safety is paramount in the Peugeot 508, with a range of advanced features aimed at enhancing driver confidence and occupant protection.
The alarm system provides added security against theft or unauthorised entry.
Meanwhile, the drive mode system allows drivers to tailor steering feel, throttle response, and gear shift timings to suit their preferences.
The standard camera safety kit includes features such as advanced emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot detection, and intelligent speed adaptation, all working together to mitigate the risk of accidents and collisions.
Spec Level Differences
Peugeot offers various trim levels to cater to different preferences and budgets, each offering its own set of features and aesthetic enhancements.
Allure Spec:
The Allure trim level serves as the entry point into the Peugeot 508 range, offering a balance of affordability and features.
Key highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels and part-leather upholstery, providing a comfortable and stylish interior environment.
Prices start from £34,170 (correct as of March 2024).
GT Spec:
Stepping up to the GT trim level introduces a higher level of luxury and performance-oriented features.
This includes 18-inch alloy wheels, part faux-leather upholstery paired with Alcantara, and additional Drive Assist features such as adaptive cruise control and a 360° camera system for enhanced safety and convenience.
Prices start from £36,820 (correct as of March 2024).
Sport Engineered Version:
At the top of the range sits the Sport Engineered version, which represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury in the Peugeot 508 lineup.
With its 20-inch alloy wheels, Napa leather upholstery, night vision system, and premium audio system, the Sport Engineered version offers the ultimate driving experience for discerning customers.
Prices start from £53,975 (correct as of March 2024).
Extras and Options
In addition to the standard features offered across the range, Peugeot provides customers with a range of extras and options to further personalise their vehicles to suit their individual preferences and requirements.
Panoramic Glass Roof:
Customers can opt for a panoramic glass roof, allowing for an airy and spacious interior ambiance while providing panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
AGR-Approved Front Seats:
For enhanced comfort and support, AGR-approved front seats are available as an option, providing ergonomic seating for long journeys.
What is AGR-approved?
“Aktion Gesunder Rücken” is an initiative dedicated to fostering spinal health, spearheaded by an independent German organisation focused on advancing research on the prevention of back pain.
Dynamic Pack:
The Dynamic Pack, available on hybrid models, includes features such as adaptive suspension control, further enhancing the driving dynamics and ride comfort of the Peugeot 508.
Tow Bar and Powered Tailgate:
For added versatility and convenience, customers can choose to add a tow bar for towing trailers or caravans, along with a powered tailgate with gesture control for hands-free operation when loading or unloading cargo.
Aesthetics and Customisation
Peugeot offers a range of paint colours and upholstery options, allowing customers to personalise their vehicles to reflect their individual tastes and preferences:
Safety and Efficiency
The Peugeot 508 prioritises safety with its comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, providing drivers and occupants with peace of mind on every journey.
Meanwhile, efficient engine options, including hybrid variants with plug-in capabilities, offer both performance and fuel economy benefits, making the Peugeot 508 a practical choice for drivers looking to save money on fuel.
Residual Values and Ownership Costs
Improved residual values make the Peugeot 508 a compelling choice in terms of ownership costs, providing long-term value and peace of mind for owners.
Maintenance plans are available to cover essential servicing, while the battery warranty for hybrid models adds an extra layer of assurance for drivers.
Peugeot 508 Review Summary: Should you buy, finance, or lease one?
In conclusion of this review, the Peugeot 508 offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality, making it a standout choice in the competitive D-segment market.
With its comprehensive standard specification, customisable trim levels, and advanced safety and efficiency features, the Peugeot 508 caters to the needs and preferences of modern drivers.
Whether it’s the entry-level Allure trim or the top-of-the-line Sport Engineered version, there’s a Peugeot 508 model to suit every lifestyle and budget.
With improved residual values and ownership costs, the Peugeot 508 represents a smart investment for discerning drivers looking for a stylish and sophisticated vehicle that delivers on both style and substance.
