Peugoet’s latest estate car is a surprising looker. But how well does it drive?
By motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay. Follow on Instagram @tbarnesclay and Twitter @carwriteups.
The new Peugeot 508 SW is a sexy estate car. Does it sound weird me writing ‘sexy’ and ‘estate car’ in the same sentence? Well, maybe. But, as this type of motor goes, it’s a looker.
Multitalented family car
Now, guys, we all know beauty is only skin deep, so is there any depth to the French company’s fresh 508 SW? Well, yes, because you can get loads into the car’s boot due to the broad tailgate and lengthy wheelbase. And that’s a good thing for dads. For example, two kids’ bikes will fit in there without taking any of the wheels off.
Room in the rear seats is ample, too, with loads of leg and headroom for adults. That came as a surprise to me because the 508 SW has a sleek and low-slung roofline. It goes to show what a multitalented family car the latest Peugeot estate is. It’s comfy, too, with an archetypally French suppleness to the ride.
Relaxing drive
Better still, the swish ride doesn’t impact handling; its delicate balance means it’s relaxed to drive. It’s also hushed at motorway speeds, with the smooth eight-speed automatic gearbox proving an excellent companion on all roads.
When it comes to running costs, the 508 SW is efficient and affordable, with my test car releasing just 104g/km of CO2 and managing around 50mpg on average.
With a build quality to match German ‘premium’ brands and a modern cabin, this is a car you’ll be proud to see parked outside your house. The only downside is you might get a bit OCD about sticky little finger marks blighting the gorgeous interior. Oh well – we’re parents – we can’t get too precious about transportation for our youngsters.
But what we can get precious about is the safety of ourselves and our family. Therefore, you’ll be pleased to read that the 508 SW has more safety kit packed into it than you can shake a stick at – and comes with a top five-star Euro NCAP crash-test rating.
Fast Facts (2019 Peugeot 508 SW GT Line 1.5 BlueHDi 130 EAT8):
- Max speed: 129 mph
- 0-62 mph: 10.1 seconds
- Combined MPG: 51.4 mpg
- Engine layout: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder diesel
- Max. power (PS): 130
- CO2: 104 g/km
- Price: £31,495
