Peugeot 508 Mk1 (2011-2018) Used Buying Guide For Families

The Peugeot 508 Mk1, produced from 2011 to 2018, stands out as an underappreciated gem in the used car market for families and long-distance drivers seeking comfort and value. This mid-size saloon and estate delivered a refined driving experience with competitive pricing today starting around £2,500, thanks to significant depreciation from its original optimistic launch price.

Design and Appeal in a SUV-Dominated World

Launched as Peugeot’s challenger to mainstream saloons like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia, the 508 featured a sleek, elegant exterior that aged gracefully. Its flowing lines and bold front grille gave it a premium look, setting it apart from boxier rivals. Available as a saloon or SW estate, it appealed to buyers wanting practicality without the SUV trend’s hype.

Despite low sales in the UK—only about 200 examples typically available used—the 508’s rarity enhances its appeal for those discovering its virtues. Heavy depreciation means bargains abound, especially post-2014 facelift models with updated tech.

Interior Comfort and Space

Step inside, and the 508 impresses with supportive, well-padded seats ideal for long journeys. Five adults fit comfortably, with ample legroom and headroom front and rear. The cabin uses quality materials, particularly after the 2014 refresh, which introduced softer trims and higher-grade cloths.

Post-facelift, a 7-inch touchscreen centralized controls, reducing dashboard clutter and improving usability for navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. Higher trims added luxury touches like part-leather upholstery, heated seats, and ambient lighting.

• Key interior strengths: Ergonomic driving position, quiet refinement, generous rear space.
• Boot capacity: Saloon offers 473 litres, estate 512 litres (seats up), expanding to 1,598 litres folded—excellent for family hauls.

Engine Lineup and Performance

Diesel engines dominate used 508s, prized for torque and economy. The 2.0 HDi (163hp) and later BlueHDi variants deliver 50-55mpg on long runs, with effortless cruising at motorway speeds.

Petrol options like the 1.6 VTi were less common and thirstier, suiting urban use but lacking diesel punch. The hybrid RXH variant added off-road capability with raised suspension, though rare.

Note: Figures approximate real-world; BlueHDi excels in efficiency post-2014.

Trims and Standard Features

Entry-level Access provided basics like air-con and Bluetooth. Allure, the most common trim, upgraded to keyless entry, parking sensors, electric seats, and 18-inch alloys.

GT models topped the range with Nappa leather, head-up display, xenon lights, and adaptive suspension for superior ride quality. Even base models felt equipped compared to rivals.

• Allure: Rear sensors, partial leather, heated seats.
• GT: Premium audio, massaging seats (select models), sportier styling.

Driving Dynamics: Cruiser Supreme

The 508 prioritizes serenity over sportiness. Its suspension soaks up bumps for a plush ride, making it a top motorway companion. Steering is accurate but light, and body roll is minimal in corners.

Not the sharpest handler—rivals like BMW 3 Series outpace it dynamically—but for 90% of drives, its balance of comfort and stability shines. Diesels pull strongly from low revs, ideal for overtaking.

Reliability Concerns and Recalls

While owners praise comfort and economy, reliability mixed. Positive reviews average 4/5 stars, but issues included faulty starter motors (2017 recalls for fire risk) and electrical glitches.

Common faults: Turbo failures on high-mileage diesels, dual-mass flywheel wear, and infotainment bugs. Pre-2014 models risk more electronics woes; opt for post-facelift with service history.

• Avoid: Untested high-mileage without records.
• Check: Timing belt (diesels), AdBlue system (BlueHDi).

Running Costs and Ownership

Low purchase prices (£2,500-£10,000) pair with cheap insurance (groups 28-38) and road tax. Diesels undercut rivals in fuel, with parts affordable via Peugeot network.

Depreciation favors buyers; estates hold slight premium. Servicing intervals at 12,500 miles keep costs down, though watch for DPF clogging in short-trip diesels.

Market Availability and Buying Tips

Scarcity means act fast—favor 2014+ BlueHDi Allure or GT estates under £6,000. Inspect for rust (undercarriage), test electrics, and verify recall fixes.

Alternatives: Skoda Superb (space), VW Passat (refinement), Ford Mondeo (dynamics). Yet 508’s style and ride edge it for value hunters.

Owner Experiences

Owners report 55mpg hauls, plush seating for 500-mile days, and surprising boot utility. Drawbacks: Soft suspension wallows loaded, and dealer support varies.

“Proven cruiser with muscle and economy, but check build quality.”

Is the Peugeot 508 Right for You?

Ideal for comfort-focused families or commuters dodging SUV premiums. Skip if prioritizing sportiness or bulletproof reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most reliable Peugeot 508 engine?

The 2.0 BlueHDi post-2014 offers best balance of power, economy, and durability with proper maintenance.

How much boot space does the 508 estate have?

512 litres seats up, 1,598 litres folded—class-leading for families.

Are there common problems with used 508s?

Starter motor recalls, turbo issues, and flywheel wear; always check history.

What’s the best trim to buy?

Allure for value, GT for luxury—both packed with kit.

Peugeot 508 vs Skoda Superb?

508 wins on style/ride, Superb on space/reliability.