Peugeot 508 Peugeot Sport Engineered

The formation of the new Peugeot SPORT marque gave birth to the ultimate 508 ever created, the 508 PEUGEOT SPORT ENGINEERED. With its sport-tuned dynamics, PHEV powertrain, and aggressive styling, this is what the 508 has been missing the whole time.

2021 Peugeot 508 PSE

2021 Peugeot 508 SW PSE

With prices starting at 67,100 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever 508 PSE is more costly to own than the Volkswagen Arteon R, but on the upside, it's cheaper to own than the BMW M3, making this the bargain high-performance saloon of the year, but it's not really a bargain high-performance car because, as I said, it's more expensive than the hot Arteon I've mentioned a few seconds ago.

Anyway, the styling. At first glance, it looks just like the normal, second-generation, Peugeot 508, in sedan and SW variants, but the PSE variant gave both of these body styles some juice. It features a dark front grille, yellow-green accented signature front bumper, yellow-green brake calipers similar to the Subaru WRX STi, new rear bumpers, and dark-colored 20-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires to match its personality. With its dark-themed styling, the 508 PSE is what happens when a businessman's car has gone after hours.

The interior works and feels just like the normal 508 and the i-Cockpit still works as every new Peugeot should. It's still as spacious as the normal 508, of course, and with the SW variant, it can carry loads of stuff whether for business or for pleasure.

The highlight of the 508 PSE is its performance and this is the kind of performance Asian medium-sized cars should learn from them. Powered by a 1.6L turbocharged engine connected to two electric motors and mated to an e-EAT8 gearbox, it generates a total power output of 360PS of power and 520Nm of torque, sprinting from 0-100kph in 5.2 seconds and an electronically-governed top speed of 255kph. Not as fast as the Arteon R but with that kind of performance numbers, the 508 PSE is a French high-performance super saloon that wants to equate with Germany's finest. As for fuel efficiency, it's a surprising 2L/100km on the WLTP scale. That's 50kmpl if you do the math.

Driving on electric power only, it has a range of 42km, and like most PHEVs, the 508 PSE's batteries can be charged but, depending on which charging point you're on, it will take almost half a day to recharge its batteries that supplement the two electric motors.

Because it has two electric motors on both sides, the 508 PSE is a four-wheel-drive vehicle, making it suitable for a chilling trip to Val Thorens on a holiday without making a ruckus. Aside from that, the 508 PSE, thanks to Peugeot's motorsports know-how, features sport-tuned dynamics underneath, making it capable of toying around the corners of Paul Ricard like it's its first try, although the digital engine sound mapping idea is cheesy, by the way.

You can play with it all day while trying to embarrass every Asian-made midsized executive car in its size, wishing that one day, they'll be as cool as this lion, but this is the real world, and although the sporty dynamics can upset a Regular Joe driving on normal day-to-day traffic, the 508 PSE features a wide range of ADAS just like the normal 508, and such safety features are worth noticeable.

The dismal charging times and the safety features not friendly to speedo boys behind the wheel are the downsides of the 508 PSE, but with the performance and styling that made a big impression, the 508 PSE is the high-performance Peugeot saloon they have been waiting for and looks like the Germans are on heightened alert.

Photo: Peugeot

Peugeot 508 II

Peugeot's been busy cashing in on their hit crossovers such as the 2008, 3008, and the flagship 5008, but there is still work left undone for the 508 range. Although sales of the 508 have been stagnant due to the rise of crossovers, they decided to give the 508 another go with this new generation and what a Peugeot it is.

2019 Peugeot 508

2019 Peugeot 508 SW

Available in sedan and SW variants, the new Peugeot 508 starts at 32,300 Euros TTC so it's reasonably priced for a flagship saloon that competes to the likes of the Mazda Atenza, Subaru Legacy, Kia K5, Toyota Camry, and many others and by observing the design of the new model, the new 508 draws inspiration from the Exalt Concept, making it one of the best-looking saloons that borrows concept car elements out of it and making a buzz out of it. The only problem about the new look is the front because while it's nice to look at, the 508 badging in the middle spoils the appeal. It's fine on a Land Rover but in here, it's plain rubbish. It's like a supermodel with a big boil in her nose and you don't want that to happen.

2019 Peugeot 508 interior

On the inside, the futuristic elements today's Peugeot model carries since the 308, dubbed the i-Cockpit, are all here and it's sort of reminiscent of the interior from today's Ford GT, if you know what I mean? Anyway, while the dashboard is too futuristic to be ignored because of its clever sat-nav with smartphone connectivity, clever speedo, and so on, the comfort zone really works rather well in this new model, and thanks to the use of the EMP2 platform, it's surprisingly more spacious than the old 508 as well as the boot space, whereas the SW variant has the upper hand.

2019 Peugeot 508

Speaking of EMP2 platform, that new platform used on the new 508 results in a more lively driving experience that makes you come back for more, and when you go for the top-spec GT PureTech 225 S&S EAT8, the 508's dynamics really speaks for themselves but for subtle driving pleasure, there are different variants to choose from, just don't go for the diesel variants because France, like the rest of Europe today, treated diesels like public enemy number one because of the D-word from the headlines.

The driving pleasure of the new 508 is great indeed because of its new platform and sophisticated suspension and chassis setup that fares better than the previous model and for going home, the new 508 will be ready with a wide range of driving and safety aids so you don't have to worry about a thing.

So, is the new Peugeot 508 improved compared to the previous 508? Yes. These improvements made the new model relatively superior compared to the competition in terms of comfort, performance, safety, and packaging but while the design is great to look at, the 508 badge on the front side is a zit that deserves to be pinched and popped but while the front view is the least of the worries, the new 508 tries hard to win back the public whose attention is shifting to crossovers.

Photo: Groupe PSA

Peugeot 508 RXH

2013 Peugeot 508 RXH

2013 Peugeot 508 RXH interior

Using the technology learned from the 3008 HYbrid4, which is dubbed as the world's first diesel-hybrid engine, the 508 RXH continues this new trend that sends the rivalry between diesel and hybrid to a screeching halt and into their joint custody.

Although, it uses the 508 SW as its basis but with added aesthetics to provide its robust and feisty character lines, the 508 RXH was made for those who are adventurous enough to travel around the world but caring about the environment. Under the hood was the 2.0 l HDi FAP diesel engine that produces 120 kW (163 bhp) but with the electric motor active, it generates 147 kW (200bhp) of power. Up to 300 Nm of torque is delivered to the front wheels by the HDi diesel unit and up to 200 Nm to the rear wheels with the electric motor.

Thanks to its HYbrid4 technology, this provides the driver with four unique drive modes such as Zero Emission Vehicle, 4WD, Sport, and Auto. In ZEV mode, the 508 RXH provides quiet operation and zero emissions for eco driving. Put it on 4WD mode, and the RXH would go anywhere from tarmac, gravel, and snow. And in Sport mode, it makes the RXH more agile on the corners. The HYbrid4 technology provides 67.2 mpg of combined fuel economy and CO2 emissions of less than 109 g/km. The only available transmission was a 6-speed paddle shift transmission.

Available colors are Blanc Banquise, Gris Thorium, Noir Perla Nera, gris Haria, Brun Calern, and Blanc Nacre.

My comment:
Can the 508 RXH be an eco car that can go offroading and be kinder to the environment? PSA Peugeot Citroen says yes and with the teachings from the 3008 HYbrid4, the 508 RXH continues the trend of uniting diesel and hybrid in today's standards. This is something that only PSA Peugeot Citroen's been capable of since the 3008 HYbrid4 and the Citroen DS5.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

The executives in France-tan's clothing: Latitude vs. C5 vs. 508

2011 Renault Latitude

2011 Citroen C5

2011 Peugeot 508

Those three executive medium sedans are from France, hence I called them the executives in France-tan's clothing. Wouldn't believe I used the "France-tan" word? Never mind, the Renault Latitude, Peugeot 508, and the Citroen C5 sedan are executive medium sedans stands out the crowd with its premium quality, performance, comfort, and everything else. The Citroen C5 and Peugeot 508 are made in France but the Renault Latitude is made in South Korea under the name Renault Samsung SM5. Come to think of it, those three are beautiful indeed but time for me to judge which of these French executive medium sedans is my pick...

In terms of overall design: I guess I can make it a three-way tie because all three got the best looks.

In terms of pricing: Let's see, the Renault Latitude Business dCi150 costs 32,500 Euros while the Peugeot 508 Access 1.6L VTi 16v 120ch BMP6 costs 23,300 Euros and the Citroen C5 Berline VTi 120 BMP6 Attraction costs 22,600 Euros, which makes the Citroen C5 the winner because of its affordability.

In terms of fuel efficiency: Since both the Citroen C5 and the Peugeot 508 are offered with the e-HDi Micro-Hybrid technology, they deserved the credit. Better luck next time, Latitude.

In terms of performance: The Renault Latitude takes over. The Renault Latitude's V6 engine has more power than the 2.2L HDi engines offered from the Citroen C5 and the Peugeot 508. It is the only Renault that offers that kind of powerful diesel engine for now.

A hybrid SUV version of the Peugeot 508?

2013 Peugeot 508 RXH

Indeed it is. The 2013 Peugeot 508 RXH is the hybrid crossover version of the Peugeot 508 using the 508 SW as its base. It competes against the likes of the Audi A4 Allroad and Subaru Legacy Outback when it hits Europe at the first half of this year.

Details remain slim for now but the 508 RXH is the second Peugeot to be equipped with Hybrid4 technology, the new diesel-electric hybrid feature that was first equipped on the 3008 Hybrid4, providing low emissions and cleaner driving while tackling mud, sand, gravel, and snow.

Expect full details at Frankfurt!

Scoop:

http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/peugeot-508-rxh-diesel-hybrid-to-debut-at-frankfurt-motor-show/

Peugeot 508

2011 Peugeot 508

Although the controversial Peugeot 407 and the aging Peugeot 607 met their demise, it seems that this new Peugeot premium-class, the 508, is much more similar to Toyota Mark X because the Mark X combined the Mark II, Cresta, and Chaser (don't forget the Verossa) into one premium sedan. The Toyota Mark X is too premium enough against the Peugeot 508. The real rivals of the Peugeot 508 are the Volkswagen Passat B7 and the Kia K5/Optima.

STYLING: The Peugeot 508 is essentially a production version of the "5 by Peugeot" concept car as seen on the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. It comes in two available body styles; the 508 sedan for premium preference and the 508 SW for spacious premium. It is somewhat disappointing that Peugeot did not offered a coupe version of the 508 yet. Still, I still prefer the styling of the Kia K5 over the new Peugeot 508, but on the lighter side, it looks more attractive than the Volkswagen Passat B7.

2011 Peugeot 508 interior

INTERIOR: The Peugeot 508's interior design is somewhat more of a carbon copy of its French arch-rival, the Renault Latitude (known in South Korea as the third-generation Renault Samsung SM5). However, the Peugeot 508's interior is the best-looking interior in all of Peugeot's lineup because of its premium amenities offered such as colored HUD (Heads Up Display), four-zone air conditioning, hands-free access and start-up, JBL audio system, multi-function steering wheel, navigation system, and a whole lot of conveniences offered on the 508. 

PERFORMANCE: Being a full-fledged European eco-car, the 508 comes with the new 1.6L e-HDi FAP engine. This micro-hybrid system has a power output of 112PS, consumes for about 4.2 liters of diesel and it has the lowest CO2 emissions of 109-110 g/km. This is considered to be Peugeot's finest because of its micro-hybrid technology. The 1.6L e-HDi variant on the 508 comes with the new automated 6-speed manual transmission. Other engines available as of launch are the 1.6L HDi FAP engine with the power output of 112PS and comes with the 5-speed MT, and the 1.6L VTi petrol engine packed with 120PS of power output, 6-speed AT, and consumes 6.2 to 6.3 liters of premium gasoline. A turbocharged 1.6L engine and a 2.0L HDi engine may follow this 1st quarter of 2011. 

 

SAFETY: For peace of mind, the Peugeot 508 comes with the finest safety features such as the xenon headlamps, Electronic Stability Program, six airbags, ISOFIX, power steering, and Peugeot Connect SOS. 

My thoughts about the 508: 

Based on the design from the Peugeot 5 Concept, the Peugeot 508 defines premium to the next level and trust me. The 508's design is even more attractive than the Volkswagen Passat B7 but less attractive than the Kia K5/Optima. Other rivals of the Peugeot 508 include the Hyundai YF Sonata, Toyota Camry, Chrysler 200, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Teana, Honda Accord Inspire and Accord Euro, Renault Latitude, Citroen C5, and Subaru Legacy. With the new e-HDi engine equipped on the 508, this lion is grown to be more "clean and economical" on European roads. Although most Europeans deserved more from a medium-sized sedan, this Peugeot is the most majestic of all the Peugeots ever made. Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen