Peugeot 508 Access 1.6 VTi EGC 4dr Car Review - March 2012

The Peugeot 508 Access 1.6 VTi EGC is a credible family car. The look is an acquired taste, nevertheless unique. It’s a comfortable drive and its interior exudes an enveloping luxury. Body movement is well-controlled and the steering is responsive, but could do with a bit more weight. The ride is a little firm but not really that uncomfortable, as the suspension readily soaks up bumps and road imperfections. The engine is smooth and refined. Road and wind noise are contained in the soundproofed cabin, although the suspension squeaks on uneven surfaces. Rear visibility is poor.

Peugeot 508’s 1598 cc, 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine has the capacity to reach 62 mph in 11.5 seconds and tops the speedometer at 126 mph. The model has a fuel tank capacity of 72 litres.

The Peugeot 508 is fitted with an automatic EGC gearbox that is not as easy to get used to as it should be. It shifts rather slow and could be a bit jerky if the throttle is not lifted when changing gear.

The 508 is a definite improvement from its predecessor in the looks department. It is lighter than the 407 with an interior that is very plush and polished. Car critics agree that the finishing of the Peugeot 508 Access is on par with its rivals and worthy for comparison to that of BMW and Audi. It sports smooth, sleek lines and an attractive front end.

The Peugeot 508 Access is entry level and is fitted with standard equipment such as air-conditioning, a USB plug, four electric windows and seating and steering adjustments. Split/fold seats are also standards. For cost options are automatic transmission, metallic paint and alloy wheels, rear parking sensors and cruise control.

The Peugeot 508 Access 1.6 VTi EGC is a 5-seater but four tall adults are more likely. The cabin has generous headroom but the rear seats legroom is not really on par with a VW Passat or Ford Mondeo. However, in case there’s a 3rd rear passenger, the rear flat floor means more comfort for the centre rear passenger. Boot space is 473 litres which is comparable to some rivals but smaller than the Passat or Mondeo.

The Overall Euro NCAP rating for the 508 is 5/5. Its inclusive standard safety kits are the usual driver and passenger airbags, side and curtain airbags. Active brake safety systems include ABS, emergency braking assistance, electronic brake-force distribution, electronic stability control with hill-assist, cornering brake and dynamic stability control. Standard security equipment includes alarm, immobiliser, central and remote locking plus deadlocks.

The brand’s reliability has improved a lot in recent years. Build quality is better and the materials used are of good quality.

Priced at £18,450 the Peugeot 508 Access 1.6 VTi EGC is slightly higher than a Ford Mondeo. This version undercuts the VW Passat however. With an average mpg of 45.6, the 508 is fuel efficient. It falls under insurance group 20 and Road Tax Band F, down to low CO2 emissions of 144g/km.

The Peugeot brand has come a long way and the 508 is now one of the best in its class as it offers a great mix of performance and economy. It is a good choice for a large family car as it offers good value for money in terms of quality and comfort.