Nasim launches Peugeot 508
Nasim Sdn Bhd, distributor of Peugeot vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the all-new Peugeot 508 sedan, taking over from the outgoing 407 in the D-segment. Only model choice is available, a generously appointed one as you would read on, and it is priced at RM169,888 with insurance.
Launched globally last year at the Paris Motor Show, the 508 features highly sophisticated design cues, with its floating front grille accentuated by its signature circular LED daytime running lights. Illumination is provided by bi-Xenon headlamps complete with washers and auto height adjusters. The tail lamps are lighted by three rows of LEDs to give it a unique night time appearance.
Uncommon at its price range is the smart beam function, which automatically switches between high and low beams based on lighting conditions ahead. A camera is mounted at the base of the rear view mirror to identify if there is oncoming traffic. This is highly impressive, when you consider that even the German cars at twice and three times the price only began introducing this feature in the last couple of years.
Inside, the 508’s cabin features black lacquer finish on its centre console lined with chrome. Equipment count is impressive as per Peugeot’s recent offerings. Colour HUD, four-zone climate control, push-start ignition, electric parking brake, front electric seat adjustment, USB and Bluetooth connectivity. There’s even a 7″ multifunction colour screen complete with a control knob on the centre console.
Audio experience is provided by a 10-speaker JBL hi-fi system with 500W surround sound amplifier and Arkamys audio processing. Peugeot further claims that extensive work has been carried out on damping out acoustics and vibrations in the car. Steering-mounted controls are available to operate radio, volume, Bluetooth, and cruise control. Access to that goodies-laden cabin is by a keyless entry system.
For the Malaysian market, Peugeot is shipping the 508 with only one engine option – the now familiar 1.6-litre Prince engine developed in collaboration with BMW. Its 156hp / 240Nm state of tune is now extremely familiar to us, being already offered in the 308, 3008, and 5008. Like the aforementioned three models, the 508 also gets the Aisin-sourced AT6 6-speed automatic transmission complete with paddle shifters. Peugeot quotes fuel consumption and CO
The 508 is independently sprung all-round, with MacPherson struts up front and multi-link at the rear. Interestingly, one particular variant of the 508, the diesel-powered GT which is not offered in Malaysia, is fitted with double wishbone front suspension. As reported by Anthony Lim of paultan.org, the reason for this difference is, “Aside from cost, the MacPhersons offer a weight saving of 12 kg over the double wishbones, and the Peugeot people explained that the gains obtained could be then put back into the car in the form of other equipment or kit, without bloating the final kerb figure.” (ed - Read: Anthony’s test drive report of the 508.)
Other features packed into the 508’s lengthy kit count are Hill Assist, front and rear parking sensors with displays on the centre console screen, and Available Space Measurement (ASM) to aid with side parking. Safety gear is similarly extensive, with six airbags, ESP, ABS, EBD, Emergency Brake Assist, Anti-Skid Regulation, and Dynamic Stability Control to call upon in emergencies. The 508 has a 5-star rating from Euro NCAP.
Order taking for the 508 has begun for some time, and it was reported that some 100 signatures are already in Nasim’s order books.
