The Peugeot 508 is one of the best-looking large family cars. The latest version (sold new from 2018) is a five-door hatchback; older models are four-door saloons. Both are also available as an estate, badged 508 SW. The latest version looks particularly distinctive, especially the high-spec models which have tooth-like vertical ‘daytime running lights’ at the front.
The 508 feels light and responsive, which makes it both easy to nip around town and quite good fun on winding country roads. It’s a quiet and comfortable long-distance motorway cruiser, too. The 508 is available with a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, plus hybrid options. They all give good acceleration. Manual and automatic gearboxes are available. All models have parking sensors to aid manoeuvring.
The 508 is a large, five-seat family car that’s roughly the same size as the Ford Mondeo or Vauxhall Insignia. The latest version is a hatchback; older models have a saloon body. The hatchback has plenty of space for four adults and three children will fit comfortably across the back seat, giving it pretty good credentials as a family car. Its sleek styling does restrict back-seat headroom a little, however. The boot isn’t as large as that of some rivals but it’s big by most standards, with space for four large suitcases. The high-tech dashboard takes some getting used to but is fairly user-friendly and feels well made. All models come with smartphone connectivity, air con and cruise control.
The 508’s petrol and diesel engines are very fuel-efficient for this type of car. According to official figures for the latest version, petrol models give fuel economy of 36mpg to 49mpg and diesels give 45mpg to 63mpg. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model has an official average of more than 160mpg but what you get in the real world will depend on how often you charge the battery and where and how you drive it. The maximum electric-only battery range is 39 miles – after that, you’ll be using the petrol engine alone. Safety organisation Euro NCAP gave the 508 a full five-star rating.
The 508’s rivals include the Volkswagen Arteon and the Skoda Superb. It’s not quite as spacious as either of those but it’s a practical family car nonetheless. It looks great outside and in, feels good to drive and is excellent value.
There aren’t many large family cars that look as good as the 508 and match its low running costs.
Peugeot has a reputation for building dependable cars and the brand ranked first out of 24 manufacturers in the latest J.D. Power UK Vehicle Dependability Study.
The 508 is one of the most cost-effective large family cars, with excellent fuel economy for its size. Petrol models can give up to 49mpg, while diesel can give up to 63mpg. There’s a plug-in hybrid with a 39-mile range on battery power, too.
The 508 has plenty of passenger and boot space, so it works well as a family car. Taller people, though, may find the headroom a little tight in the back seats.
The 508 is one of the most stylish cars of its type, with a high-tech look inside and out. While it’s not as practical as some rivals it’s a roomy family car nonetheless, and running costs are especially low.
Peugeot 508
2013 (13) - 2.0 HDi 140 Active 5dr
Peugeot 508
2013 - E-HDI SW ACTIVE 5-Door
Peugeot 508
2013 - 1.6 HDi Active 5-Door
Peugeot 508
2024 - 1.6 Hybrid 225 GT 5dr e-EAT8
Peugeot 508
2018 - 2.0 BlueHDi 150 GT Line 4dr
Peugeot 508
2021 - 1.5 HDi GT FASTBACK EAT EURO 6 AUTO 5DR LEFT HAND DRIVE
FRENCH REG
Peugeot 508
2017 - 2.0 508 GT SW Blue HDi S/S Auto 5dr
Satnav+Panroof+Camera+Carplay
Peugeot 508
2014 (64) - 2.0 HDi 140 Allure 4dr
Peugeot 508
2019 (68) - 2.0 BlueHDi 180 GT 5dr Auto