It replaces both the so-so 407 and the slow-selling 607, and will be available as either a saloon or estate from launch. Based on the same platform as the Citroen C5 and outgoing 407, the 508 saloon is 4790 mm long, while the estate is 4810 mm. Those measurements are increases of 99 mm and 47 mm over the respective 407 versions, and reflect the 508’s dual segment role.
The 508 sees the arrival of a new design language for Peugeot. Gone, thank goodness, is the gaping wide-mouth look typified by the 407 and 4007 SUV. The new model also manages to be less fussy at the front than more recent Peugeot offerings such as the 5008 MPV, but some of the details - like the ‘Peugeot’ name badge on the grille, and the strange bonnet lip that comes down to meet it - seem a bit unnecessary. The rest of the car looks neat enough though, the most striking feature being a strong shoulder line that runs the length of the body.
For many prospective customers, cabin fit and finish will be key factors when deciding whether to buy the 508. However, Peugeot has yet to release any interior design details.
Similarly, technical information is sparse, but it is known that the diesels will get an improved stop-start system to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. Also promised soon after launch is a Hybrid4 version. This combines a diesel engine driving the front wheels with an electric motor powering the rears. Peugeot claims the package offers 200 horsepower performance combined with CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km. That’ll be very attractive for UK drivers, because it means no road tax and potentially no London Congestion Charge.
When sales start in early 2011, the Peugeot 508 will doubtless have to face the usual challenges of a non-prestige large car in Europe. However, it may be the case that success here is secondary to Peugeot’s objective of strong sales in China, where the car will also be built.
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