The Peugeot 508 is a stylish alternative
IT’S AMAZING HOW WE tend to gravitate to the more top-of-mind brands and models when looking for a new car. And that means we often overlook something a little left-of-centre that could deliver a lot more driving pleasure and satisfaction.
A perfect example of that is Peugeot, once a top-selling brand in Australia (think back to the Redex-winning 203, almost indestructible 403 and the 404 that set new standards in comfort).
Peugeot’s highly-awarded all-new 508 has arrived in Australia, delivering class-leading technology and drivetrains and two stylish body styles.
The new 508 is available in Fastback and Sportwagon body styles, with pricing from $53,990 and $55,990 respectively. The only options (a refreshing change from many other European brands) are exterior colour choice and an opening panoramic sunroof.
Each body style will be available solely as a GT model and powered by an all-new, high-output version of Peugeot’s proven 1.6L, turbo-petrol, four-cylinder engine developing 165 kilowatts of power and 300 Newton metres of torque. First previewed on the recently introduced 308 GT, the new engine is paired to an all-new Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission.
The strong drivetrain, combined with the vehicle’s light overall weight, delivers impressive performance and fuel economy, all-new 508 accelerating from standstill to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds (8.2 seconds for Sportwagon) yet consuming just 6.3 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle.
The 508 arrives with impressive credentials, having already amassed numerous design and motoring awards, including the ‘2018 Most Beautiful Car of The Year’ award.
Ben Farlow, Managing Director of Peugeot Australia, said that while the term “all-new” is one that tends to get over-used in modern times, in the case of the Peugeot 508 the vehicle is all-new not just in design but also in its thinking, engineering and intent.
“The Peugeot 508 arrives at a time when the sedan segment is ripe for a shake-up. Not only is the 508 outstanding value, it’s great to look at, great to drive and it stands out in its class,” Mr Farlow said.
Compared to its predecessor the new 508 is lighter, lower and shorter yet offers greater interior space, more technology, a significantly more powerful engine and vastly improved fuel economy, not to mention substantially more design presence on the road.
Optional equipment is limited to an opening panoramic sunroof ($2,500) and a choice of six metallic and two pearlescent paint colours ($590 and $1050 respectively). Hurricane Grey is a no-cost option.
The Peugeot 508 comes with Peugeot’s five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year roadside assistance and five-year Service Price Promise program, yet another strong selling point when many luxury brands persist with a shorter three-year warranty.
Once we have tested and assessed the new Peugeot 508, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.