Described by Peugeot as “truly a revelation in every respect” the all-new Peugeot 508 flies the Peugeot flag in a segment where it's never been much of a formidable player - that of the large, family-sized sedan. Sporting Peugeot's contemporary design approach first seen on the SR1 concept car, the 508 is certainly more elegant than the 407 is supersedes.
It also offers a relatively wide range in South Africa, with four models sporting three different engine options. Of these only one is petrol-powered, this being Peugeot's familiar 1.6-litre THP turbopetrol mill that pushes 115kW at 6000rpm and 240Nm at 1400rpm.
Next up is a 2-litre HDi turbodiesel good for 120kW at 3750rpm and 340Nm at 2000rpm and there's an even mightier diesel option in the form of a 2.2-litre unit (150kW at 3500rpm and 450Nm at 2000rpm) fitted to the flagship 508 GT. According to our launchman Jesse Adams, “The GT offers tractable acceleration without any nasty diesel noises.”
“Power from the 1.6 turbo is sufficient at best, but if performance is what you're after, the GT is the only option. Peugeot doesn't make any performance claims for the 508, but I suspect the 1.6 THP might wheeze a little if put under too much pressure. The 2.2-litre GT model however, pulls strong with little effort at low revs.”
All models come with six-speed manual transmissions, manual only on the 2.0 HDi, manual or auto on the THP and auto only on the GT. “The GT's paddle shift gearbox might not be as lightning quick between gears as some of the modern dual-clutchers available today, but it does change up and down with almost imperceptible smoothness,” Jesse concluded.
The GT also sports a sophisticated drop-link dual wishbone front suspension system, while the rest of the range makes do with a MacPherson-type front axle. All models have fully independent multi-link rear suspension though.
Jesse observed that the GT's wishbone suspension makes a noticeable difference. “The ride quality in the lesser model is indeed softer, partially because it rolls on 16-inch wheels and not 17s. Where the GT offers sports sedan-like feedback through the steering wheel, the McPherson-strutted Allure hovers more comfortably over bumps in the road with the same sort of numb sensation you'd expect from a high-profile tyred front wheel drive saloon.”
“I wouldn't say the 508 is as engaging to drive as aforementioned German models with rear and all-wheel drive chassis, but it is extremely comfortable and very quiet inside thanks to advancements made by Peugeot in interior quality levels.
“The 508's cabin is probably its strongest attribute, and it's obvious by its fit and finish, as well as its design, that Peugeot's been studying the Germans closely.”
Equipment across the range is generous enough, with the base 'Active' models boasting cruise control, parking sensors, automatic headlights, CD/MP3/Bluetooth audio system and six airbags.
The Allure adds quad-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and start, half-leather seating, electric handbrake and sunblinds, while the GT also receives head-up display, satellite navigation and heated leather seats.
PRICING:
1.6 THP Active - R283 700
2.0 HDi Active - R303 200
1.6 THP Allure AT - R306 700
2.2 HDi GT AT - R409 900
Prices include a 3-year/100 000km warranty and a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan.