Peugeot aim for the mainstream

FIRST LOOK PEUGEOT 508: AFTER SEVERAL sneak peaks of Peugeot’s new family car during testing, these are the first official images…

FIRST LOOK PEUGEOT 508:AFTER SEVERAL sneak peaks of Peugeot's new family car during testing, these are the first official images of the 508 which is set to replace the current 407 model and the firm's larger flagship model, the 607.

Neither of the outgoing models recorded the sort of sales that were expected with the 407’s design being regarded as too aggressive for many. Meanwhile French brands have continually failed to challenge in the premium market and the 607 has been no exception.

Lacklustre sales of its biggest saloon means that the 508 will hope to capture some premium buyers but the key audience will be more mainstream. An estate version will be offered from the outset.

The new look on the 508 espouses a far sleeker and less aggressive look for the brand and it is due to be repeated on several other models in the coming years.

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Key changes to the Peugeot facade include a much smaller and narrower grille and the addition of LED running lights.

Since it replaces two outgoing models, the 508 will boast more space than the 407, with better rear-seat legroom being a key factor.

Alongside the current array of the Peugeot’s latest diesel engines, the 508 will also boast Peugeot’s new diesel hybrid engine – the HYbrid4. This 163bhp 2.0 litre HDi engine will be connected to a 37bhp electric motor, culminating in an powertrain that puts out 200bhp with average emissions of just 99g/km.

The car will will go on sale in Ireland next spring.

Michael McAleer

Michael McAleer

Michael McAleer is Motoring Editor, Innovation Editor and an Assistant Business Editor at The Irish Times