The all-new PEUGEOT 508
Due here in Spring, Hannah Gordon gets behind the wheel of one of the most anticipated cars this year, the Peugeot 508 Fastback
What is it? A low slung coupe style car, Peugeot has brought something different to the market instead of the usual SUV models.
Who is it aimed at? Designed for the executive car market, the coupe styling and large boot lend itself to the business sales rep sector.
Styling? The Peugeot 508 has unique styling thanks to its distinctive headlight and LED daytime running lights at the front and a new right configuration at the rear. The doors are frameless and the whole silhouette of the 508 is smooth and sleek, it takes on a similar shape to the Audi A5 but with its own French styling cues.
Under the bonnet? Peugeot offers a choice of two petrol and three diesel engines, the diesel engine includes an entry-level 1.5-litre BlueHDi that produces 130bhp and comes with an eight-speed automatic. There is also a 2.0-litre Diesel engine with two different power outputs of 160bhp and 180bhp. The petrol alternatives are a 1.6-litre turbocharged PureTech that also has two power outputs of 180bhp and 225bhp. All engines come with the option of the 8-speed EAT automatic transmission.
What about inside? As we’ve come to know it the Peugeot interior has become extremely familiar with the smaller than normal steering wheel and futuristic switchgear which characterise the I-Cockpit design. Dials have been replaced by a large digital display and on Allure models and upwards a decent size 10-inch touchscreen infotainment adorns the centre dash. As standard there is Apple Car Play and Android Auto, a handy option is wireless smartphone charging. The interior feels of good quality and well put together, although one problem I did have was that if I had a drink in the cup holder then changing gear was difficult.
Interior space is good with front passengers enjoying good room, three adults fair less better with space in the rear though, boot area is good with 487 litres to play with.
Inside there is good space for a family car
On the road? Adaptive suspension is standard across all petrol models and the 2.0-litre diesel options, alongside the four different driving modes, enables you to chose a set-up that suits you. The lower powered diesel option does lack power but is perfectly suitable for motorway cruising, if you prefer a manual gearbox then your only option is the 130bhp Diesel engine. The Peugeot 508 does corner well and thanks to the small steering wheel you do get more feedback, but the suspension is a bit rough at times especially along less than perfect road surfaces.
What about safety? When tested by Euro NCAP it received the full five stars possible. As standard the 508 benefits from a Safety Pack, with this you get the following driver aids; Advanced Automatic Emergency Braking System with Distance Alert, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Speed Limit Recognition.
Will it break the bank? Prices for the 508 fastback start from €32,400 for the Active 1.5 BlueHDi 130bhp model,
What are my options? Standard equipment on the entry-level Active model includes the i-Cockpit with 8” touchscreen, compact steering wheel and customisable heads up digital instrument panel, 16” Alloys, spare wheel, speed limit recognition, lane keeping assist and cruise control and speed limiter. The Allure level three model costs from €34,930 and adds a 10” touchscreen with satellite navigation, blind spot monitoring, high beam assist, road sign recognition and recommendation, advanced driver attention alert, 17” alloys, USB x 2 in the rear, keyless access and start, lumbar support and dark tinted rear glass. The GT Line comes with a host of extras including 18” alloys, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, full LED headlights and 3D LED rear lights, 2nd row armrest with ski flap, electric lumbar support and tilt, GT Line exterior and interior styling (GT Line badging, chequered chrome radiator grille, stainless steel scuff plates, perforated leather steering wheel with GT Line emblem) and iCockpit Amplify (choice of two interior ambiences: Boost or Relax) with Driver Sports Pack. The range-topping GT version is priced from €49,120 for the 2.0 BlueHDi 180bhp automatic version and comes equipped with 18” alloys, Focal sound system, Nappa leather seats with full electric driver’s massage seat, active suspension control, an electric tailgate and GT exterior and interior styling (GT badging).
So what’s the verdict? Its good to see something different to the usual SUV designed models that are being churned out week after week, the Peugeot 508 Fastback is distinctive with nice details and proportions. The exterior styling is not the only thing to catch the eye as the unique interior sets it apart from rivals. The obvious draw of the car is to appeal to families so the news that a hybrid could be added to the powertrain line-up in 2019 could add further appeal. The diesels are particularly noisy but the smaller powered petrol seems a perfect engine for versatility and refinement.
Why you’ll buy one? Stylish; distinctive interior; Well equipped
Why you won’t? Noisy diesel, ride quality a little harsh, rear seat room a little tight
Peugeot 508 Fastback 1.5L BlueHDi 130 S&S
Engine: 1499cc
Max speed: 210 km/h
0-100 km/h: 9.7 seconds
Emissions: 103 CO2 g/km
Model price range: prices start from €32,400
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP : 5
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 3.8 l/100KM (72 mpg)
Boot Capacity Seats up: 487 litres
Length: 4750 mm
Width: 1859 mm
Height: 1403 mm
Wheelbase: 2793 mm
For more information check out peugeot.ie, the Peugeot Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Hannah Gordon
7th January 2019
