Peugeot 508 Diesel HYbrid4 4dr Car Review - June 2013

Although the hybrid engine is designed for efficiency, it certainly doesn't perform like an engine that is short on power, and the two litre engine propels the large car from 0-62mph in just 9.0 seconds. The top speed of 130mph is also more than enough for motorway driving, and those doing long journeys will find it has plenty of power to cruise comfortably and overtake at pace. The body control while cornering is also very good, but this is balanced by a rather firm ride, which is not going to be to everyone's taste.

Getting comfortable in the classy cabin isn't a problem with plenty of adjustment and good headroom on offer, but some shorter drivers may feel limited as the seat is quite close to the floor, even at its highest setting. Visibility is also not quite as good as it could be, with thick pillars at the rear of the car having an impact on visibility.

The 508 has taken many of its design cues from other successful saloons on the market, and has gone for an appearance that will not look out of place, rather than trying to be too adventurous with the design. The large grille and smooth headlight clusters help provide an attractive nose to the car, while the chrome details around the windows and the high line of the boot help to provide a stylish look. As you would expect, the vehicle is supplied with a set of alloy wheels that help the 508 to present a classy image.

Satellite navigation and bluetooth connectivity are among the gadgets included as standard within the cabin, while handy features such as rain sensing wipers and rear parking sensors are also included. The power heated seats will certainly be a welcome feature on those cold winter mornings, while cruise control and climate control are features to be expected on a car that is aimed at business drivers.

Although the 508 isn't the largest saloon on the market in terms of the space on offer, it does have plenty of headroom and legroom for adults in the front and rear of the car, and the small central tunnel means even those sitting in the middle rear seat should be comfortable. The boot is also large enough to accept plenty of luggage, although its door is a little small.

There is the usual range of safety equipment included with the car including stability control, along with several air bags that have helped the car to achieve five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests. Although Peugeot hasn't always been the most reliable manufacturer, particularly with this model's predecessor the 407, this car feels well made and should be a reliable companion on long journeys.

The most difficult decision for many people will be whether they cover enough distance to make the purchase price for this very efficient engine to be financially worthwhile, as the list price of £31,850 puts it at the top of the 508 range. The 2.0 litre diesel engine is a very impressive one, and offers superb fuel efficiency figures of an average 78.5mpg.

Peugeot saloons have traditionally not fared too well when it comes to retaining their value on the second hand market, but these models may be a little more desirable because of the low road tax for the car. The 508 is supplied with a standard on the road package of a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty, and roadside breakdown assistance for the first year.