Peugeot 508 RXH Diesel HYbrid4 5dr Car Review - April 2012

With four wheel drive the 508 RXH is able to deliver a high level of traction and grip, but it is fair to say that the firm ride does transmit a high proportion of the bumps and potholes to the occupants in the cabin. The steering responds well to a turn of the wheel, but considering the firm suspension it is disappointing that there isn't more feedback. Body roll while cornering is well controlled however. The driving seat is adjustable for height and distance, while the steering wheel is also fully adjustable, but the visibility is only adequate as some of the pillars are a little thick.

Although the diesel hybrid engine is one that has been built to deliver good fuel efficiency, there aren't too many sacrifices to be made in terms of performance. The acceleration from 0-62mph is achieved in 9.5 seconds, and the top speed of 132mph is not to shabby either. The refinement in the cabin is generally quite good, but on poor road surfaces you can hear the suspension working, and there can be some wind noise too.

The 508 RXH has taken a number of design cues from the other estate cars boasting 4x4, and the hardened plastic trim around the bottom of the car is designed to help protect the bodywork on poor road surfaces. The grille and Peugeot badge is different to other models, with the square shape being quite nice, and the roof bars also help to give the 508 RXH the look of a car that is a little sportier. Inside the car the 508 RXH is classy and nice to use, while the dashboard and centre console are practical and straightforward.

The level of equipment included with the 508 RXH is excellent, with alloy wheels and part leather seats making for a very nice image. There is also satellite navigation included as standard, and cruise control is useful for longer journeys.

The 508 RXH is a spacious car that can comfortably accommodate four adults, with room for a third passenger in the back if needed, and also has a reasonably sized boot. The four wheel drive also makes this car an option for those who need a car to negotiate farm lanes and the occasional field. Peugeot hasn't always been able to boast an excellent reliability record, but the car does feel like a quality vehicle.

It is also a safe car to drive, with plenty of airbags to look after the driver and passengers in case of an accident, and there are driving aids such as stability control that help to keep the driver in control.

Probably the biggest stumbling block for the 508 RXH is the hefty purchase price, and because it is listed at £33,695, many people will look to the 508 SW range which can also offer an estate with an efficient engine.

The running costs for the car are very good, with the diesel hybrid engine able to deliver an average 68.9mpg. The insurance group is fairly average, meaning that insurance costs should be fairly reasonable, but Peugeot cars do generally suffer quite badly from depreciation. The 508 RXH is supplied with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty and a one year membership with the AA.