The saying goes that the lion is not as fierce as they paint it, but when it comes to the most powerful in history, it is…
The French brand has worked hard to make the Peugeot 508 PSE the most powerful model in its history; And that, with the plug-in hybrid mechanics, is also one of the most efficient and respectful with the environment.
PSE stands for Peugeot Sport Engineered. They reveal that the manufacturer’s competition team (created by the famous Jean Todt in 1981) has collaborated in its development.
as fierce as they paint
There are numerous aesthetic details that reveal the sporting spirit of the Peugeot PSE. This is the case of the front and rear bumpers (both specific) with very marked lines and the grill with a dark logo and a three-dimensional framework. Also the diffuser integrated in the rear and the double exhaust outlet.
The bodywork (which can be saloon or station wagon) has four vertical flaps that improve stability and aerodynamics. The wheels are 20 inches.
One of the novelties of this model that we will see in others of the PSE range are the aesthetic details in kryptonite green, present in the brake calipers, the front air vents and the interior seams.
360 horsepower
The mechanical heart of this plug-in hybrid is made up of three motors: one combustion and two electric (one on each axis). Together they add a total power of 360 CV and a maximum torque that amounts to 520 Nm. The battery that feeds the electric ones has a capacity of 11.8 kWh.
By default, the Peugeot 508 PSE starts in hybrid mode. This means that its three engines work at the same time to achieve the best performance without losing efficiency.
The driver can choose between four other driving modes: electric (with up to 45 km of zero-emission autonomy); comfort (adjust steering and suspension for a more comfortable experience); sport (offers maximum power); and AWD (which maintains constant four-wheel drive).
racing technology
The influence that the 508 PSE receives from the competition team of the lion brand can also be seen in the equipment list.
The 20-inch EXXAR wheels, the high-performance chassis with adjustable suspension and brake settings are a direct heritage of the Peugeot Sport team.
It also has state-of-the-art driving aids such as Drive Assist Plus technology that adapts speed to that of the vehicle in front to always maintain a safe distance and helps prevent unintentional lane departures.
Or the infrared camera of the Night Vision system that detects the presence of pedestrians or animals and alerts the driver with an image that appears in their field of vision. In this way, the 508 PSE increases safety in night driving and low visibility situations.
sporty and efficient
Regarding consumption, Peugeot approves only 2 l/100 km for this plug-in hybrid saloon; That doesn’t mean it’s not fast: it only takes 5.2 seconds to hit 100 km/h from a standstill.
One last fact, the price. The Peugeot 508 PSE is available in saloon body (from 62,200 euros) and Sports Tourer (from 63,400 euros).