Peugeot 508 SW
The first Peugeot I've driven since my 306 7 years ago.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but after 250 miles would summarise the 508 as an interesting alternative to a Mondeo or Insignia. It has a better diesel engine than the 2.0 diesel Mondeo, but is nicer to drive than the (faster) Insignia. The interior was also probably a bit nicer than both the Ford & Vauxhall, which both seem to feature about a million buttons on the dash. The 508 was more minimalist and stylish inside, but with a decent quality feel.
On the downside, although it was quite a nice drive, the steering & handling were not as engaging as the 406 I also used to use regularly. The 406 had a lovely balance between comfortable suspension and sharp handling, which was reinforced by very accurate steering. This meant it was a great car to take along a favourite back road and made even the dullest journeys more interesting. The 508 in comparison had harder suspension and although the handling & steering were good, it somehow lacked the fluidity of the 406 (& 306).
And that, in my opinion, is why Peugeot have lost their way in recent years. They seem to be sorting the styling (the 508 looks ok in my eyes, probably better as an estate than saloon), now they need to bring back that sparkle which made Peugeots of the 80s and 90s so great to drive.
Peugeot 508 SW
The first Peugeot I've driven since my 306 7 years ago.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but after 250 miles would summarise the 508 as an interesting alternative to a Mondeo or Insignia. It has a better diesel engine than the 2.0 diesel Mondeo, but is nicer to drive than the (faster) Insignia. The interior was also probably a bit nicer than both the Ford & Vauxhall, which both seem to feature about a million buttons on the dash. The 508 was more minimalist and stylish inside, but with a decent quality feel.
On the downside, although it was quite a nice drive, the steering & handling were not as engaging as the 406 I also used to use regularly. The 406 had a lovely balance between comfortable suspension and sharp handling, which was reinforced by very accurate steering. This meant it was a great car to take along a favourite back road and made even the dullest journeys more interesting. The 508 in comparison had harder suspension and although the handling & steering were good, it somehow lacked the fluidity of the 406 (& 306).
And that, in my opinion, is why Peugeot have lost their way in recent years. They seem to be sorting the styling (the 508 looks ok in my eyes, probably better as an estate than saloon), now they need to bring back that sparkle which made Peugeots of the 80s and 90s so great to drive.