2024 Peugeot 508 is proof midsize cars can still look cool

It’s been 5 years since Peugeot revealed the second-generation 508 midsize sedan. While it has been quietly discontinued from the local market due to the unending popularity of crossover SUVs, that doesn’t mean the D-segment sedan is no longer popular in other markets around the world.

In fact, Peugeot has just launched the refreshed 2024 508 midsize car. Available either as a sedan or as a station wagon (dubbed SW), the updated 508 gets exterior and interior makeovers, new and upgraded features and amenities, as well as the benefits of downsized turbocharged engines with electric assist.

Featuring a more aggressive look, the updated 508 dons the brand’s now familiar frameless grille that is complemented by more prominent fang-like LED daytime running lights. Even the front bumper was given attention and gets a more animal-like growl. Last but not least is the new Peugeot logo sitting proudly at the center of the grille.

Whether it’s the sedan or wagon version, the rear of the refreshed 508 looks as sporty as the front end. The LED taillights still feature a claw-like design like its predecessor but have been reshaped and angled differently. Meanwhile, the blacked-out centerpiece no longer carries the Peugeot logo as it has been replaced with the brand’s name and is spelled out for all to see.

Pop the doors open and the 2024 508 features a revamped interior. While it may not be obvious at first, the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment now supports over-the-air updates and can now be customized with widgets and scrollable menus. The 12-inch digital instrument cluster has been updated as well and now displays media, intelligent driving aids, as well as navigation for better convenience to drivers.

Also worth mentioning inside the updated 508 is the redesigned center console. The signature gear selector is no longer inside the midsize sedan as it has been replaced with what looks to be a toggle-style switch which makes for a cleaner-looking design.

Under the hood, the 508 comes with a long list of engine choices ranging from a humble three-cylinder turbo all the way to a turbocharged hybrid that benefits from all-wheel drive. First up is a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-three that puts out a respectable 130 PS. There’s also a 1.5-liter turbo-diesel inline-four that also generates 130 PS. Serving as the most powerful non-assisted turbocharged engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that makes 218 PS. Both the gasoline and diesel engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Next are the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options. The electrified choices begin with a 1.2-liter turbo helped along by a 110 PS electric motor. Depending on the variant, the total system output can vary from 180 PS or 225 PS.

Serving as the most powerful variant is the PSE (Peugeot Sport Engineered) Hybrid4. It has a 1.6-liter turbo inline-four assisted by two electric motors - the front puts out 110 PS while the rear provides an extra 113 PS. This allows the 508 PSE to produce a total system output of 360 PS which makes it on par with sports sedans.

The refreshed 2024 Peugeot 508 is expected to arrive in European markets first with other global markets to follow suit soon after. With the facelifted 508 sporting a new look, we won’t be surprised if the all-new 3008 or 5008 will get a similar face and overall styling shared with Peugeot’s midsize sedan.