Peugeot 508

Overview:

Starting with the introduction of Peugeot 508, it is obligatory to mention that this full-size family sedan is a praiseworthy replacement to two Peugeot cars; Peugeot 407 and Peugeot 607. Over and above everything, this car has many a times bagged international awards being the 'best car of the year' and 'best imported family car'. Featuring feline-like front profile and overall pretty good face, this car is liked by autocar enthusiasts in France and other countries to which it was exported in big numbers. It features a thinner front grille, a sharper front end and a revised tailgate. In Malaysian auto market, you can get the availability of this car in three variants namely – Peugeot 508 THP, Peugeot 508 SW THP and powerful Peugeot 508 GT. The GT trim of the sedan gives the agility to move the vehicle producing 206 PS at 3500 rpm and 450 Nm of torque at 2000 rpm. Inside, passengers are treated to lots of space and a high-quality interior. The dashboard feels well made and the seats are supportive and comfortable. Innovative and state-of-the-art equipments like the dashboard 7-inch multi-function color touch screen, efficient AT6 transmission and alloy wheels gives Peugeot 508 a definite style, comfort and pleasurable driving. The on-board sat navigation help you need whilst out and about. Even in tight city spaces, parking the new 508 is easy with the reversing camera. Its triggered automatically when you shift into reverse, and an image of what's behind you is displayed on the screen.

The 508 is firm without being uncomfortable and feels reasonably composed and stable when tipped into a fast, tightening corner. On faster, undulating roads it maintains a steady serenity reminiscent. Kudos to front Macphersons and double wishbone rear suspension system. Assisting which, ESP, EBD (electronic brake force distribution) and EBA (emergency brake assist), cruise control and speed limiter works for stable and safe ride.

Mileage and Fuel economy:

There are two versions of the engine available for this car; 1.6-litre and 2.2-litre. This particular segment of the car of fuel economy places the 508 miles ahead of its rivals. You get frugal 5.7 litre/100km of consumption rate with this car of Peugeot. The powerful GT trim gives mileage count of 7.1 litre/100km, which is again a good count for a sedan.

Power:

This light-weight aerodynamic vehicle is available with two engine options in three trim levels. The Peugeot 508 equipped with 2.2-litre turbodiesel HDI engine for GT trim produces 206 PS at 3500 rpm and high torque of 450 Nm at 2000 rpm. The other two trims are powered with a mighty 1.6-litre twin scroll tubo high pressure (THP) engine that prepares the sedan to run producing maximum power output of 165 PS at 6000 rpm and high torque of 240 Nm between 1400 to 4250 rpm.

Acceleration & Pickup:

The impressive engine range provided for Peugeot 508 allow you to breach the speed mark of 100 kmph from standstill position in 8.4 seconds and the top speed of the vehicle is 235 km/h.

Exterior:

Peugeot 508 is a delineated stylish 4-door sedan that illustrates authoritative, contemporary and commanding design layout. Looking at its front profile, you may surmise that this facade has been appointed with techno-details that gives it a 'felinish' appearance. Sleek LED headlamps placed on the edges and pouncing bonnet profile are the key features representing the alley cat front look. Three-claw rear lights are placed at the extreme corners increasing the surface area of boot gate that widens the opening to cargo compartment. These lights fitted in not just embark the car's strong presence on-road, it also use less energy upto 50% and contribute lower CO2 emissions. Moreover, sunroof feature is also given with venting and sliding opening that allows light/fresh air to enter the passenger compartment.

Exterior Measurements:

The overall dimensions of this car is measured as 4830 mm x 1828 mm 1456 mm (L X W X H) for Peugeot 508 THP and GT trim. Whereas, there are slight changes in dimensions for SW THP Variant, which makes a total count of 4829 mm x 1828 mm x 1476/1487 mm (L X W X H).

Interior:

The all-new Peugeot 508 deserve full marks for hauling itself back into the game with its interiors. It is a tidy blend of its own in-house design cues and a more generic Germanic quality. The driver interface is intuitive with rightly set buttons around the centre console. The three-spoked steering wheel feature controls close to the driver's hand for easy operation and access over the segment. The panoramic glass roof adds to the sense of space inside the 508 and means that everyone in the car benefits from plenty of natural light and incredible visibility. The innovative color head-display keeps all the essential driver information, including speed, cruise control, speed limiter and navigation information at eye level.

Interior Comfort:

The interiors of Peugeot 508 is a bliss for occupants looking for a spacious sedan with decent passenger room and controls. For rear passengers comfort, air conditioning control switches are given on the centre console through which you can set different temperature for rear cabin. Also, audio functions are given on the same panel instead of dashboard to make it easy to operate for driver. Also, you have the opportunity of using electronic recognition (keyless access and start-up) rather than the traditional key. So, with the identifier still in your pocket you can access your vehicle, start it and stop it simply by using the Start/Stop button. In addition, a number of handy passenger storage options are provided like centre console or glove compartment making it superbly practical for a long journey.

Interior Measurements:

Peugeot 508's generous 612-litres of boot capacity rises to 1817-litres with the seats folded down to roof height. This volume is sufficient enough to haul cargo along with you driving for distant journeys.

Engine and Performance:

This light-weight aerodynamic vehicle is available in two engine options - 1.6-litre and 2.2-litre for three trim levels. The Peugeot 508 equipped with 2.2-litre turbodiesel HDI engine for GT trim produces 206 PS at 3500 rpm and high torque of 450 Nm at 2000 rpm. The other two trims are powered with a 1.6-litre twin scroll tubo high pressure (THP) engine that prepares the sedan to run producing maximum power output of 165 PS at 6000 rpm and high torque of 240 Nm between 1400 to 4250 rpm. Furthermore, adding technological expertise and innovation this engine is coupled with automatic 6-speed gearbox with auto adaptive capability.

Stereo and Accessories:

Interiors of Peugeot 508 states commanding presence and this you will soon realize after sitting in the cockpit. The innovative technological drive-systems equipped inside makes driving easy in rough terrains. Navigating through 7-inch touch screen via built-in satellite navigation you can reach any desired destination in less time. The Peugeot Connect USB box lets you listen to tracks from an MP3 player or iPod through the 508's audio system, so you could have your entire music collection in the car with you. With Bluetooth you can also stream music wirelessly and use it to make and receive safe, hads-free phone calls.

Wheels:

Peugeot has always set the standard in terms of road holding and, consequently driving enjoyment. You get 18-inch alloy wheels fitted in the car in tyre measurement 235/45 R18 for THP and SW trim. Whereas, GT trim offers you 19-inch wheels fitted in tyre size 235/40 R19, further emphasizing 508's presence.

Braking and Handling:

In terms of improvised road holding, all thanks to McPherson type struts with helical springs, dampers and anti-roll bar front axle with multi-arm helical springs and multi-valve dampers rear suspension that ensures excellency of brakes & smooth riding 4WD drive system. To this chassis construction, Peugeot 508 has got further assistance of power brake system, featuring ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The electronic stability program (ESP) detects the signs of a skid and helps reduce over-steer. The ESP function is assisted by EBD and EBA.

Safety and Security:

Talking about the safety aspect packed in this stylish sedan, extra efforts have been made adding technological advancements to its structure. ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Stability Programme and Brake Assist makes the braking mechanism of the vehicle more efficient and renders stability. 6 airbags system employed 2 for front passengers, 2 side airbags and 2 curtain airbags provides high degree of protection in the event of a collision. Other safety aspects hampered with this car includes reverse parking camera, Peugeot Connect SOS and drive-assistance services.

Pros:

Impressive refinement
Good to drive
Smart styling

Cons:

Sluggish gearbox
Cabin lacks practicality
Higher-spec models expensive