It appears Nigeria’s automotive market is getting super charged especially with the arrival of the new Peugeot 508, 1.6-liter turbo. Due for launch next Tuesday inside the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, February 25 are two versions made up of the Active and Allure versions available in automatic transmission.
While Allure is top of the range, Active model falls in the middle. Both are aimed at the young, active, stylish individuals with dynamic lifestyles.
Whereas it’s 407 predecessors that comes in 2.0-litre sold well in the local market, it is expected that fleet managers in the country will now maximize the value and return on investment on purchasing the new 508 model being offered in 110bhp 1.6-litre turbo-diesel.
This is coming at a time of growing automotive sophistication when consumers are more discerning in their tastes and preferences, buyers expect style, comfort and finesse from their hardwares as well as extra space – and if a sedan car such as the luxury 508 can’t provide it, then there are plenty of alternatives out there, but the question is, will that alternative measure up to this spec from the French automaker.
Peugeot’s flagship in this busy marketplace, where fleet business plays a big role complemented by individual purchases, is the 508 sedan that is available in the 1.6-litre turbo version petrol version. Back on track in design terms and on its way to regaining its once supreme grasp of chassis engineering, it seems PAN Nigeria won’t be disappointed by the new 508 be it the sedan or estate which would improve the looks of any drive and provides a more than rewarding drive.
Outside, impressions are also promising. This is Peugeot’s new corporate look with sharp eye for detail by the designer. Inside, the cabin is a fair statement of intent taking into consideration the attractive two-dial instrument binnacle segues into a classy centre console, festooned with clear functions and switches.
The car’s sharp aerodynamic lines wil no-doubt be expected to meet those higher customer expectations. At a very closer look, this Peugeot 508 is a sleek and dynamically designed car which sits upon a well-balanced chassis and suspension, accompanied by good grip and some sharp and nimble handling, with body movement well contained at all times.
A prominent ‘floating’ grille at the front end which lies beneath a steeply raked bonnet with a defined rising shoulder line that sweeps along the flanks into tapered and distinctive rear lights also added to the good looking disposition of the luxury sedan.
A stylish and spacious interior represents a considerable move upmarket for Peugeot as they pitch the 508 against Ford’s class leading Mondeo among others. Fixtures and fittings all feel solid and reliable and quality materials are used throughout while there is plenty of head and leg room for five adults. This is a car in which long journeys pass by with the minimum of fuss and inconvenience to passengers.
The dash and centre console are neatly and simply laid out and easy to navigate but the standard multifunction steering wheel and colour head-up display, which rises smoothly out of the dash, mean that the driver rarely has to take his eyes off the road ahead.
Particularly, the Allure version of Peugeot 508 stands out of the crowd. Keyless entry, push-button ignition, automatic electric parking brake, automatic folding wing mirrors, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, electrically adjustable and heated front seats, half leather trim and 18-inch alloys are all added perks of the Allure.
Nigerians will be availed a list of high-tech comfort and safety aids as well as automatic lights and wipers, satnav, a panoramic glass sunroof, cruise control and air conditioning. And on top of stability and traction control are the ABS brakes and all the expected airbags to take care of safety.
