This pretty debutante just couldn’t wait.
We reserve a degree of skepticism with regards to these photos, but should they prove to be true (and we prove to be paranoid), these might very well be the first clear look at what we can expect to see when French marque Peugeot launches its next-generation 508 saloon at the Geneva motor show.
We have to say, we’re pretty impressed with what we’re seeing. Peugeot has always positioned its 508 as something of a more upmarket offering with a plush, posh cabin, a refined ride, and a desirable if understated design, but the new generation 508 appears to push the game on rather considerably. Talking first about what’s most obvious, the new 508 appears to make a distinct departure from the design language we’ve seen with the 3008 and 5008 crossovers, with the familiar grille flanked by slim headlights that link into ‘fang’ LED daytime running lights that bite into the bumper.
A quick look at the profile and we’ve noticed that the bonnet appears to extend over the headlights and grille, similar to what Volkswagen has done with the Arteon. We can only wonder if with this generation, Peugeot might aim the 508GT towards VW’s swoopy lift back with this generation. Further parallel with the Arteon comes in the form of the frameless side windows, something we’ve usually associated with coupes and their four-door brethren.
Towards the rear, the roofline tapers gently to a very upright bum with an integrated spoiler (gosh that looks good), with tri-claw LED taillights (with what appear to be a rather delicate graphic within), replete with a pair of exhaust exits (real ones at that) integrated rather nicely into the rear bumper valance.
The cabin of the 508 doesn’t disappoint, either. If the 3008 and 5008 are any indication, expect to find an interesting use of fabrics and soft-touch surfacing, though the 508 appears to also use wood (for the first time in a long time, in a Peugeot). We see the latest iteration of Peugeot’s vaunted iCockpit cabin design language with a small steering wheel, fully-digital instrumentation, ambient LED lighting, slim air conditioning vents, and a beautifully-integrated screen. There also appears to be a Focal audio system (though this should be limited to high-end models), which ought to be able to satisfy all but the most exacting audiophiles.
The leaked photos were not accompanied by any technical information, so it remains a mystery as to what motive power the 508 will pack. It’ll be safe to assume that there will be an assortment of turbocharged petrol and diesel mills, as well as the possibility of a hybrid model with as much as 220kW on tap. We’ll have to wait and see.
For more information on Peugeot, check out our Showroom.
