PEUGEOT 508: INTRODUCTION

With the launch of the new 508 range, Peugeot reaffirms its presence and its ambitions in one of its traditional strong suits - the grand touring car segment.

Over a period of several decades, every model in the "40X" and "50X" range has left an indelible imprint on its time: due to a unique blend of style, road holding, versatility and robustness.

The 508 is a modern, forward-looking vehicle, perfectly attuned to the aspirations of customers who have moved with the times: exacting, dynamic and responsible.

Quality, purity and efficiency are the bywords which guided every aspect of the vehicle's design and engineering process; offering a multi-faceted appeal to potential owners.

Combining strong design and emotion with cutting edge technology, the 508 offers:

1. unique driveability, based on the Marque's longstanding expertise in the medium / large car segment
2. quality craftsmanship and interior comfort;
3. a streamlined, prestigious and dynamic appearance; and
4. the latest generation e-HDi and HYbrid4 technologies (late 2011 & 2012 to Australia);
5. EURO 5 compliant engine technology.

STYLISTIC PURITY
Led by the search for perfectly balanced and streamlined contours, the style of the 508 suggests a vehicle "sculpted from a solid", reflecting aspirations of elegance, robustness and quality. The vehicle is constructed on a principal line running from front to rear thus giving emphasis to the glass insert. No lines diverge from the direction of the road; indeed, all of the car's lines have been designed to follow the movement of the vehicle.

At the front, the 508 illustrates the development of the Marque's latest stylistic codes (first unveiled on the SR1 concept car) with a single grille rendered in a "floating" style and piercing headlamps with a particularly marked visual expression.

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFICIENCY
Environmental efficiency was a pivotal concern from the very start of this project with, optimisation of the car's aerodynamics (a Cx starting from 0.25 and a SCx of 0.58) and a significant weight reduction when compared to the 407 (despite the increase in size and specifications).

Under the bonnet, the 508 benefits from various engines offering a power output from 82kW (1.6 ltr e-HDi) to 150 kW. Each positioned particularly well in its category, both in respect of fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions being EURO 5 compliant, but also in terms of performance and responsiveness.

The top-of-the-range engine at the time of launch in Australia is the new 2.2 litre HDi FAP 150 kW offering a level of performance worthy of a diesel V6 but with a carbon footprint reduction of 30% over the 407 engine.

QUALITY IN-CAR ENJOYMENT
The simple and elegant style of the fascia, the materials used, the meticulous finish, the durability and technologies utilised add to the exclusive ambience of the passenger compartment.

Each passenger enjoys a privileged status thanks to the car's outstanding proportions. The boot also, is practical and accommodating, with a generous volumes, irrespective of the body shape. With the seat backs folded (they fold in one easy movement) to form a flat floor, this volume rises substantially.

DYNAMIC EMOTION
Emotion, with the 508, finds expression through driving enjoyment, a characteristic highly prized by Peugeot.

The 508 will be available with two types of suspension: a new McPherson type front axle for the majority of the range, ensuring a top quality blend of comfort and road holding, as well as a aluminium dual wishbone front axle on the top-of-the-line "GT" version for enhanced dynamic road holding and to match the performance of the 2.2 litre HDi FAP engine.

The new 508 has a host of highlight features and options which include:

Two body styles – a sedan and Touring wagon; Quad zone air-conditioning, Colour Head Up Display, hands free access and start; multi-function steering wheel; adaptive main beam lamps; optimal rear seat legroom and seat comfort; a range of engine/trim grades including 1.6 litre turbo petrol, 2.0 litre HDi, the introduction of an economical eHDi and a powerful 2.2 litre HDi with 150 kW / 450 Nm and, in a first for Peugeot Australia - The 508 Guaranteed Service Plan.

GENESIS: EFFICIENT CHOICES

ALERT TO NEW CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS
Derived from Peugeot's extensive experience in the field of "exclusive" touring cars, the Marque, as with each previous generation, has recognised and addressed the expectations of customers in this segment.

Customers who are active, committed, experienced and in search of modernity and status, albeit free of ostentation, who hold fast to certain values and are aware of their responsibilities. Such buyers are drawn increasingly to spacious, timeless and efficient cars: efficient in terms of liveliness, but also and not least in terms of greater fuel efficiency. Naturally they require a car that will see them easily and comfortably through their journeys whilst at the same time guaranteeing durability.

OPTIMISED ARCHITECTURAL EFFICIENCY
From the outset, engineering choices underlying the 508 were based on platform 3 in order to obtain a particularly refined "architectural efficiency" with:

1. a long wheelbase (+ 9.2 cm compared to the 407), featuring a generous capacity for the rear passengers;
2. engineering choices allowing a reduction in the front overhang (- 4.3 cm compared to the 407) and a longer rear overhang, paving the way for an improved stylistic balance and everyday practicality with a significantly larger boot volume;
3. enhanced dimensions, particularly width and height, permitting optimised aerodynamics.

OPTIMISED AERODYNAMICS & REDUCED WEIGHT
Optimised aerodynamics and weight reduction were key priorities from the very start of the project, in order to ensure the best possible environmental performance. The 508 offers excellent Cx and SCx values for its segment: the best versions have a SCx of 0.58 (Cx of 0.25) for the sedan - among the best in this segment for body shape.

Similarly, a desire to optimise the weight eventually gave rise to an "upward spiral" benefitting not only the car's fuel consumption but also its passive safety and dynamic performance. Every design element, every technique used, every part of the vehicle was fine-tuned in this sense, a policy which applied to all areas of the 508's fabrication: magnesium fascia panel cross member, aluminium bonnet, laser welding of the roof, use of high-strength steel, engine soundproofing at source, etc.

QUALITY: A FUNDAMENTAL VALUE
Quality was another key priority of the 508 design brief. It is the result of a continuous search for the highest possible quality across all levels, with:

1. engineering choices guided by the need for maximum durability, with a determination to provide a vehicle that stays "new" for as long as possible;
2. a high level finish visible from both outside and inside the car, with an exclusive passenger compartment;
3. the completion of a 2 million kilometre road test in real-life conditions prior to launch.

Finally, the 508 is breaking new ground in terms of build quality, following on from the most recent product launches (3008 & RCZ) where this aspect has been demonstrated and acknowledged.

In the design of 508, special effort has been made to limit the vehicle's impact on the environment with the integration of "green materials" to reduce the carbon footprint (produced from recycling or natural materials in origin). On the 508 around 14.3% of the 230 kg of polymers (excluding rubber) present on the vehicle are 'green materials' compared to 6% for the 407.

These green materials can be found in approximately 30 vehicle parts or functions (interior of the wheel housing, rear bumper, noise insulation, boot carpet, steering wheel, seats, seat frames, engine cover, air filter, etc.). In addition, the 508 is composed in essence of five main groups of materials: metals, plastics, fluids, rubber and glass. Overall, 85% of the mass of the 508 is recyclable and 95% is upgradeable.

In the same spirit, on the Rennes production line, where the 508 is built – there has been much work to optimise protective packaging which has seen a 75% reduction in waste in relation to the parts used for each car.

HIGH-STATUS, DYNAMIC AND TIMELESS

SCULPTURAL VISUAL APPEAL
The design of the 508 is guided by a continuous and unwavering search for perfectly balanced and elegant contours.

The contours of the 508 are free-flowing, without interruption or embellishment, from the tip of the bonnet to the boot. No ostentatious elements or add-ons are permitted (no windscreen wiper jets, no visible aerials, etc.): all surfaces are flush-fitting, with clearances between each element precisely determined to obtain optimal build quality.

The overall effect suggests a vehicle "sculpted from a solid", distilling a sense of elegance, fluidity and quality.

DEVELOPMENT OF THE MARQUE'S STYLISTIC CODES
At the front, the 508 shows the development of the Marque's underlying stylistic codes, reinterpreted to reflect ideas brought to fruition on the most recent Peugeot concept cars. This visual identity, strong and always recognisable, is further suggestive of power, refinement and technological modernity.

At the end of the aluminium bonnet, the new Lion identity takes its place naturally at the lead of the contour. Underneath it, the characteristic single grille takes on a new dimension. It sets the tone for a grille rendered in a "floating" style, seemingly detached from the body. This effect is created by the chrome edging, which becomes less pronounced under the "nose" of the bonnet to reveal the Peugeot branding.

The piercing expression of the headlamps was also a focal point for stylists. The headlamp interior design is a blend of chromium plated and frosted surfaces. On 508 versions with directional bi-Xenon headlamps, LED lighting tubes are visible, each with seven electroluminescent diodes. This gives the car an immediate visual signature, visible from afar on the road both by day and by night. Halogen headlamps are also available and they adopt a new high-performance and compact "NEO" or new efficiency optics technology, with a series of lenses. With this system, the light flux of the halogen bulb is around 30% more efficient: more uniform, more intense, more far-seeing - for enhanced visibility and safety. In addition, it allows for an original stylistic integration in the headlamp, with a lens visually evocative of a cat's eye.

A BALANCED PROFILE
The lateral aspect of the car is purposely understated, enhanced by the contours of the chrome-edged windows (availability according to trim versions). Visually, the side windows appear to rest on a sculpted body section. No mean feat of industrial engineering: a recessed waistline runs the entire length of the vehicle, giving it an unusual blend of power and elegance.

A SIMPLE AND TECHNICAL REAR ASPECT
On the 508, the entire rear section is designed in one form, the boot perfectly flush with the bumper, creating an impression of fluidity, power and control. A horizontal chrome bead on the boot enhances the rear aspect, parallel to the chrome edging at the base of the diffuser which visually "seats" the rear of the car.

A visual characteristic of Peugeot's heritage is also particularly marked at the rear of both body shapes. On the sedan, three red clusters mask three rows of 6 LEDs to give the car a unique night-time signature and echo the Lion's 'claw' effect.

AN INTERIOR RICH IN SENSATIONS

EXCLUSIVE INTERIOR STYLING
The fascia follows, to a large extent, the stylistic elements of the car's exterior design: quality, purity and elegance.

FASCIA
The design minimises clearances between the constituent parts of the fascia, facilitated in particular by a multiplexed centre console featuring technology that overcomes the traditional constraints of "ISO" sized equipment.

The materials, meticulous finish and studied durability appeal to all of the senses of the occupants: the texture of the top of the fascia, the different textured decorations, the black lacquered centre console and touches of chrome - the overall effect is one of refinement and technology free of pretension.

SEATING
The leather seat (standard for Allure grade or optional depending for Active & GT variants), includes driver and front passenger electric adjustment and the following functions; forwards-backwards adjustments, seat back angle, seat-cushion angle and lumbar adjustment.

The front seats head restraints have a new "curved, fold over shape" with integral multi-position adjustment. Refer to page 26 for more detail.

The rear bench seat is designed to be comfortable and welcoming.  Rear seating includes 60/40 split folding seat backs, three-height adjustable bolster type head restraints, centre armrest with 2 cup holders, ski flap/load-through functionality, three top tether child seat anchorage points, remote activated seat fold levers positioned on the boot side trims (Touring), fully flat floor with the seats folded (Touring).

ENHANCED TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT
Extremely rewarding in-car ambience blends refinement with high-tech equipment which enhances the enjoyment for both driver and passengers.

The hi-tech equipment includes a colour Head-up Display(with elements of satellite navigation), quad-zone air conditioning "main beam assistance", "hands-free" access and start-up, automatic electric parking brake, driver's electrically-operated lumbar and a JBL hi-fi system. Either available as standard or optional equipment according to variant, these systems accentuate the distinctiveness of the 508.

Colour Head Up Display: Standard equipment on the GT variant and optional on Allure, the Head Up display gives a projected image displaying the main driving information (speed, cruise control/speed limiter, etc.) via the retractable tinted screen situated directly above the instrument panel.  In this way, the driver has access to this information without having to take their eyes off the road.  The 508 is unique in the Peugeot range with a colour display and adoption of "turn by turn" navigation instructions (where Navigation is specified) to the head up display, for even greater driving comfort and safety.

Main Beam Assistance: The 508 proposes to increase the rate of use of full or high beam function by means of a switching assistance system. Refer to page 23 for more detail.

Hands Free Access & Start Up: As standard equipment on Allure and GT, the 508 offers the customer replacement of the normal mechanical key with electronic recognition. 

By keeping the transponder (two units provided) in a pocket or handbag the vehicle can be entered simply by opening the door handle, then started (or stopped) by simply pressing the Start/Stop button.  On exiting the vehicle, a light touch of the handle is all it takes to lock. 

Electric Parking Brake & Hill Assist: As standard equipment on Allure and GT grade, an electric parking brake combines the function of automatic application when the engine is switched off, including on stalling and automatic release on acceleration.  Manual use is also possible.

The Hill Assist function coupled with the electric parking brake allows the brake to be maintained temporarily (2 seconds) when the vehicle is on a gradient (greater than 3%) and also when facing in the opposite direction to the gear engaged. 

Directional bi-Xenon headlamps with LED signature: Xenon headlamps cast a pure white-bluish light with three times the flux of a standard lamp, thereby improving night driving. Their elliptical module includes a shutter frame to ensure dipped and main beam functions. They are equipped with a directional functionality which improves vision in corners for safer and more convenient night driving. This function is linked to vehicle speed and adapts to different driving conditions between 5 km/h and 160 km/h. On the 508, these headlamps are systematically coupled with "LED tubes" to provide a visual signature both by day and by night.

Static directional lighting: Static directional lighting, as standard on all 508s with either bi-Xenon or halogen headlamps optimises lateral visibility at low speeds (less than 40 km/h) in urban areas, at intersections, during parking manoeuvres, on winding roads. The light beam from one of the two fog lights illuminates the inside of the corresponding bend, according to the angle of the steering wheel or use of the direction indicator.

BENCHMARK ACOUSTICS
The ambience of the 508 is also the result of much work carried out on acoustics as well as vibration damping. By tracking down noise to its source (the acoustic "encapsulation" of power trains) the level of quietness in the passenger compartment is among the best in any category.

An acoustic front windscreen (to filter noise from outside), hydro-elastic suspension mounts (to reduce noise and vibration coming from the road), active damper on the front axle of the 2.2 litre HDi version (to reduce engine vibration); all of these elements contribute to the hushed comfort of a passenger compartment.

CONNECTIVITY & ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

In addition to the Bluetooth equipment available, all 508 models are fitted with a USB jack socket. This socket located in the storage compartment in the front central armrest permits the connection of MP3 audio equipment. A USB peripheral device is considered a completely separate source which is controlled in the same way as the other audio sources with commands possible from the steering wheel and display on the multifunction screen.

As an option the 508 features a new generation satellite navigation system called Nav Plus which offers numerous functions: a large 7'' 16/9 display (WVGA high resolution 800x480 pixels) with perspective view and Australia cartography (stored in the internal memory).

In cars, sound quality often suffers from the physical constraints imposed by safety standards and the desire to optimise occupant space. The speakers are positioned in the doors, which means for the driver and passengers' sound which seems to be "at their feet" and often too much to one side, either "all on the right" or "all on the left".

Arkamys© software installed in the Nav Plus system processes the digital signal from all the media players (radio, CD, MP3, etc.) and recreates a natural sound stage, with a harmonious placement of the instruments and voices in the space facing the cabin occupants, positioned at the level of the windscreen.

PRACTICAL AND ROOMY FOR EVERYDAY USE
In terms of practicality, the choice of an efficient architecture allows for a very generous capacity and boot.

Each passenger enjoys a privileged status; with generous space coupled with dedicated equipment (Quad-zone air conditioning includes the rear passengers and adjustable seat cushion for the driver and front passenger).

Interior dimensions are on a par with those of the 607 and much improved in relation to the 407 (5.3 cm more space between the knees of the rear passenger and the front seat).

The boot on the 508 opens by means of a self-actuating lever (by pressing the "plip", a button on the fascia or the "0" of the external badge of the 508). The luggage compartment is practical (solid hooks, luggage net, housing for warning triangle or first aid kit), accommodating (with its strictly parallel-pipe shape) and above all extremely spacious.

The boot of the 508 sedan has a capacity of 497 litres. With the seat backs folded, the space created by this flat floor rises up to 1,533 litres. For the 508 Touring the capacity is 612 litres and with the seat backs folded up to an astounding 1817 litres.

With regards to towing weights the 508 has practical applications for everyday use with an un-braked towing weight across the range of 750 kg and a braked towing weight of 1375 kg for the 2.0 litre HDi and 1875 kg for the 2.2 litre HDi.

EFFICIENT ENGINES

THE RANGE OF POWERTRAINS
Weight, aerodynamics and of course the Peugeot's technological expertise and innovation in terms of HDi FAP diesel, are factors which immediately place the 508 among the leaders in its segment in every power category. At the time of launch in Australia the following will be available:

1. 2.0 litre HDi FAP developing 120 kW @ 3750 rpm and 340 Nm of torque @ 2000 rpm, 6-speed automatic gearbox; CO₂: 149 g/km;
2. 2.2 litre HDi FAP developing 150 kW @ 3500 rpm and 450 Nm of torque @ 2000 rpm, 6-speed automatic gearbox; CO₂: 150 g/km.

Later in 2011, the following will also be available in Australia:

1. 1.6ltr turbo petrol (THP) which develops115 kW @6000 rpm and 240Nm of torque at 1400rpm, 6-speed automatic gearbox; CO₂: 164 g/km.
2. 1.6ltr e-HDi which develops 82kW @ 3600 rpm and 270Nm of torque at 1750rpm, electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox (EGC); CO₂: 115g/km.

PERFORMANCE

2.0 LITRE HDi FAP WITH 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC GEARBOX
With a capacity of 1997 cm3, this engine is already equipped on the 308, 3008 and RCZ ranges, developing a maximum power of 120 kW at 3750 rpm and torque of 340 Nm.

NEW 2.2 LITRE HDi FAP WITH 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC GEARBOX

POWERFUL, LIVELY AND FUEL EFFICIENT
A new 2.2 litre HDi FAP 150 kW engine, with a maximum torque of 450 Nm at 2,000 rpm, tops the 508 range in the "GT" version featuring an enhanced suspension and finish.

Thanks to the technological sophistication of a lightweight titanium turbocharger impeller, optimisation of friction, VoltControl, piezo-electric injectors with eight apertures, optimised combustion chambers - and also due to re-engineering of the 6-speed automatic gearbox, this power train develops a level of performance superior to the former 2.7 litre HDi V6 of the 407.

With improved liveliness and greatly reduced fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions the 2.2 litre HDi engine is down 33% on CO₂ to 150 g/km, compared to 223 g/km on a 407 V6 HDi, a reduction of 73 g/km.

AM6 AUTOMATIC GEARBOX

Developed with AISIN AWof Japan, according to specifications prepared by the Peugeot, the AM6 has been re-engineered to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions while favouring dynamism and driveability due to the enhanced rapidity of gear changes.
For the sequential mode, the transmission features paddles under the steering wheel for enhanced driving enjoyment. 

1.6 LITRE TURBO PETROL WITH 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC GEARBOX (later in 2011)

With a capacity of 1598 cm3, the Turbo High Pressure engine is "state of the art" in terms of petrol engine technology with stoichiometric direct fuel injection, twin scroll turbocharging and variable valve control. Launching in Australia later in 2011 the 1.6 THP will be available in two specification levels – Active in sedan only and Allure in sedan and Touring.

508 NEW TECHNOLOGY RANGE

From the fourth quarter of 2011 in Australia the 508 also ushers in the era of e-HDi technology for the Marque, a new-generation STOP & START.

Rapid, efficient and silent, e-HDi combines reduced fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions (up to - 15% in town) with maximum driveability, an innovation for this type of system.

It is mated with the electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox (EGC) so that a maximum number of customers can benefit from the lowest possible fuel consumption. It will offer a combined fuel consumption of 4.4 litres/100 km for emissions of only 115 g/km.

HYbrid4: TECHNOLOGY OF THE FUTURE
HYbrid4 technology will be introduced to the 508 range in the not too distant future. With an HDi diesel engine at the front and an electric motor at the rear, this technology offers potential power of 147 kW (200 bhp) and "by wire" all-wheel drive and is a solution that breaks new ground in terms of fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. With emissions of 99 g/km as the target, the 508 will - more than ever - combine driving pleasure with environmental responsibility.

"TAILORED BY PEUGEOT" DRIVING SENSATIONS

TWO TYPES OF SUSPENSION EQUIP THE 508
In this segment in particular, Peugeot has always set the standard in terms of road holding and, as a direct consequence, driving pleasure. With the 508, Peugeot has taken great strides in accommodating these characteristics in a range able to accept two types of suspension.

An all-new McPherson type front axle has been developed for use on the majority of the 508 range. Here the 508 offers a new, high-level synthesis of road holding and ride comfort. In terms of comfort, the level of expectations of customers in this segment has risen considerably in recent years. This engineering choice is another example of the upward spiral set in motion by efforts to reduce weight: the new front axle allows a weight saving of 12 kg compared to the 407.

The 508 GT for its part features a drop-link dual wishbone front axle. The dual wishbone and decoupling of bounce and steering functions allows for a very high level of body rigidity and driving accuracy.

This choice is consistent with the performance of the new 2.2 litre HDi FAP 150 kW engine and with the expectations of customers who are demanding with regard to the dynamic capabilities of their car.

At the rear, the entire range is equipped with a multi-arm rear suspension. This is designed to ensure excellent efficiency and maximum accuracy and vibration damping by decoupling longitudinal and transverse forces.  The spring-damper combination is fixed in an inclined position on this suspension and thus permitting maximisation of the width of the boot by eliminating any intrusion of technical components.

ADAPTIVE STEERING AND BRAKING
The rack and pinion electro-hydraulic steering continuously adjusts the effort required, and facilitates maneuvers at low speed. It fully reflects the Marque's expertise; precise and informative, and corresponds to two driving styles: "all encompassing" or "GT", according to the expectations of their respective customers.

Braking is designed to match the dynamic qualities of each 508, with front brake calipers in three different sizes: 304 x 28 mm for the 1.6ltr petrol and 2.0ltr HDi and 340 x 30 mm for the 2.2ltr HDi. At the rear, the entire range has 290 x 12 mm discs.

The electric parking brake combines the functions of automatic application when the engine is switched off and automatic release on acceleration with manual use which is always possible by pulling the control lever.

The Hill Assist function coupled with the electric parking brake allows the brake to be maintained temporarily (2 sec.) when the vehicle is on a gradient (greater than 3%) and facing in the opposite direction to the gear engaged.

The 508 comes with latest-generation ESP (Bosch 8.1 system) which includes anti-lock braking, SC (stability control), EBA (emergency brake assist) and EBFD (electronic brake force distribution). The ESP along with the Hill Assist includes intelligent traction control, which improves the vehicle's ability to move off and be driven on slippery road surfaces by authorising more or less wheel slip on each of the front wheels.

Furthermore, the ESP system also comes standard with cornering brake control (CBC) which distributes the braking power between the right hand and left hand wheels.

ADAPTIVE LIGHTING

The 508 permits the increase in the use of full or high beam function by means of a switching assistance system when the 508 is fitted with bi-Xenon headlamps (an option on Allure grade, but standard on the GT).

At night, an intelligent camera (located behind the rear view mirror) continuously analyses the driving conditions (vehicle being passed, vehicle being followed, lit urban areas, etc.) and switches the headlamps to full beams as soon as possible thus improving visibility.

PARKING ASSISTANCE

The rear parking assistance is standard on the 508 and the front parking assistance is standard on Allure & GT models. The sensors for each are body colour. The interface is audible and visual (via the multifunction screen).

The available space measurement function is coupled with the front parking assistance. Two sensors are positioned at the two ends of the front bumper. This function measures the size of a parking space and provides information about: the possibility of parking in a free space and the degree of difficulty of the manoeuvre to be carried out.

After identifying an available space and activating the available space measurement function by means of the dedicated button, the driver simply has to pass in front of this space at slow speed in order for the system to measure the size. Depending on the space available, various messages are then displayed on the multifunction screen; parking possible, parking difficult and parking impossible.

MULTI-FUNCTION STEERING WHEEL

The entire 508 range has a steering wheel with integrated controls - functional and technological. This arrangement permits easier access to the speed limiter/cruise control, volume, configuration menu and source functions.

A first at Peugeot, Cruise Control and Speed Limiter features are controlled by means of buttons on the steering wheel. This specification combines easier access to the controls and improved perceived quality of the instruments and controls.

For both the speed limiter and the cruise control, it is possible to store up to five speeds by means of the vehicle's configuration menu. To select a stored speed, simply press and hold the programmed speed increase button. Once the stored speed is reached, the system stops.

MAXIMUM SAFETY

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SAFETY OF THE HIGHEST LEVEL
With an ENCAP rating of five stars, the 508 benefits from a high level of primary safety, due to its road holding and equipment specification (Head-up Display, directional bi-Xenon headlamps, fog lamps with static intersection lighting, main beam assistance, etc.). The car is also designed to offer a level of secondary safety amongst the best in the segment.

Its collapsible structure includes high-performance shock absorbers on the front beam, which also allows a reduction in the length of the overhang. Once again, safety benefits significantly from reductions in the vehicle's overall weight.

The 508 is equipped with efficient means of restraint: 2 front airbags, 2 side front airbags, 2 curtain airbags and 3 child seat top tether anchorage points.

The front seats have new "curved, fold over shape" head restraints with integral multi-position adjustment whose shape has been carefully studied to take into account the effects of rear collision (whiplash). The size and the shape offer a remarkable level of protection. These head restraints have the special feature of being able to adjust precisely to the height required by the occupant, due to the absence of rod notches.

Welcome lighting, follow me home lighting, door sill lighting, ambiance lighting, four parking lamps and day running lamps have all been included in the development of the 508. Thoughtful consideration of both driver and passenger's safety has been included when entering or exiting the vehicle.

STRUCTURE & CHASSIS

The structure of the 508 has been designed to absorb as much of the energy resulting from the different types of impact as possible. The 508 is fitted with suitcase type handles which make the release of the occupants easier in the event of an accident.

FRONT IMPACT: In spite of a very compact design permitting a reduction of the overhang and the use of a new lightened subframe, the 508 has been designed to achieve the highest EuroNCAP impact classification possible. The engine compartment incorporates a subframe absorber which distributes the energy released during the impact, a collapsible steering column which prevents rising of the steering wheel during a front impact and very high performance bumper bar absorbers.

SIDE IMPACT: The 508 is the first vehicle built on Platform 3 on which a simultaneous development taking into account barrier and post side impacts has been carried out. In order to absorb the energy from these impacts as effectively as possible and create a true survival cell for the occupants, the front doors incorporate special padding and the front and rear doors have diagonal strengtheners.

PEDESTRIAN IMPACT: The bumper and bonnet of the 508 have been developed taking into account the constraints of the pedestrian impact and to minimise the consequences for the pedestrian in the event of a collision. The black strip situated at the bottom of the front bumper has been designed to "lift" the pedestrian towards the bonnet (to prevent him/her, as far as possible, from falling under the wheels).

WHEELS & TYRES

Considering the general increase in the wheel diameters used by the main motor vehicle manufacturers in this segment and the attention paid by the project team - choosing tyres which are as widely used as possible, the 508 returns to a level of tyre replacement costs which is noticeably more favourable with a positive reduction on the cost of owning the vehicle.

A selection of tyres has been made which will include Michelin Primacy tyres as well as Continental Sport Contact.

New 508 features four wheel and tyre sizes:

1. 17" Alloy wheels as fitted to the Active and Allure grade, these feature 215 / 55 R 17 MICHELIN Primacy HP tyres;
2. 18" Alloy wheels are optionally available for Alluregrade, these feature 235 / 45 R 18 MICHELIN Primacy HP tyres;
3. 18" Alloy wheels are fitted standard to the GT grade (a different design to the optional Allure), these feature 235 / 45 R 18 MICHELIN Primacy HP tyres;
4. 19" Alloy wheels are optionally available for GT grade, these feature 235 / 40 R 19 CONTINENTAL ContiSportContact 3 tyres.

In the event of a puncture, several emergency solutions are offered on the 508:

1. A uniform spare wheel on alloy rim for a 17" alloy wheel.
2. An 18" space-saving spare wheel for 18" alloy on the GT version.
3. A tyre inflation / repair kit for 19" alloys on the GT version.

THE 508 RANGE

The entire Peugeot 508 range has been centred on a two-tier finish level. Peugeot Automobiles Australia offers the "Active" in the sedan and "Allure" levels of specification in the sedan and Touring as well as the top-of-the-line GT sedan. The new 508 will be marketed in three grades with three engine combinations.  A full specification list is included in this media kit.

The 508 will be available in the following body colours:

Solid:               Bianca White 

Metallic:         Aluminium Grey, Thorium Grey, Flint Grey, Perla Nera Black, Espresso, Oyster (new), Egyptian Blue (new) and Alpine Blue (new). ($800)

Premium:           Pearlescent White ($1,300)