Motoring News
PEUGEOT 508 GT FASTBACK PLUG-IN HYBRID
PEUGEOT 508 GT FASTBACK PLUG-IN HYBRID
By ALISTAIR KENNEDY
Peugeot 508 PHEV is the French company’s first electrified passenger car.
Originally offered as a four-door sedan or five-door station wagon, the Peugeot 508 has been on sale in Australia since July 2011. It fitted into the space between the smaller 407 and larger 607, effectively replacing both cars.
The second generation 508 was launched in 2019 but didn’t arrive here until August 2021 and featured Peugeot’s first-ever plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain.
While there is a large choice of engines and equipment levels available overseas for the 508, only three models are available here, all with the top-grade GT variant and with the choice of Fastback or Sportswagon bodies and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engines.
The 508 GT PHEV only comes as a Fastback, the engine-only 508 GT is offered in both body styles.
STYLING
2022 Peugeot 508 GT Fastback Plug-In Hybrid.
The relatively small chequered radiator grille has chrome edge trim with the iconic Peugeot Lion symbol in the centre and 508 lettering above it at the front of the bonnet. There are twin headlights on either side above long curved turn indicators. ‘GT’ badges on the C pillar complete the car’s ID.
The PHEV has the fuel filler on the right rear panel and the battery charge point on the left.
The rear is even more attractive, with triple tail and brake lights each containing three vertical bars that rolls across when activated.
INTERIOR
2022 Peugeot 508 GT Fastback Plug-In Hybrid.
Although the latest 508 is lighter, lower and shorter than its predecessor it actually provides greater interior space. Not to the extent of similarly sized SUVs but enough for reasonable occupant comfort.
The 508 comes with the latest version of the Peugeot i-Cockpit which combines the small sport steering wheel with a large head-up instrument panel and central infotainment touch screen, blended together and ergonomically positioned.
The seats are quilted Nappa leather throughout with both front seats powered, heated and with a multi-point massage function.
Rear seat space is borderline with just enough legroom but restricted headroom for taller passengers.
Boot space in the GT and GT PHEV Fastback is 487 litres with all seatbacks in place, expanding to 1537 litres with them folded. The Sportwagon increases these capacities to 530 and 1780 litres respectively. Powered tailgate is standard.
POWERTRAINS
The 508 PHEV combines a 133 kW 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with an 11.8 kWh Lithium-ion battery and 81 kW electric motor mounted on the front axle for a combined power output of 165 kW.
The two non-hybrid 508 models are powered by a high-output version of Peugeot’s 1.6-litre, turbo-petrol, four-cylinder engine developing 165 kilowatts of power and 300 Newton metres of torque.
All variants are mated to an all-new Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission.
SAFETY
Standard across the 508 range are six airbags; enhanced ABS brakes; dynamic stability control; camera and radar activated emergency braking; blind spot detection; adaptive cruise control with stop and go function; lane departure warning; lane keeping assistance with road edge detection; driver attention alert; automatic high beam; IsoFix child seat mounts in the outer rear seats; speed sign recognition and speed limit warning; forward collision warning; electronic anti-skid system; and 180-degree rear-view camera.
INFOTAINMENT
All variants come with a 10-inch high-definition touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in front of the driver.
Embedded 3D satellite navigation is standard including voice recognition. There’s also smartphone mirroring for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both wired as well as two USB sockets in the front centre console and two more in the rear console plus 12V sockets, including one in the boot.
Sound is through a FOCAL 10-speaker premium system with dedicated amplifier and subwoofer. DAB digital radio is available for those who live in a capital city.
DRIVING
Low-slung styling can make it a bit awkward for taller occupants but it’s a sporty-ish car so that’s to be expected. Once seated though the seats are comfortable and supportive
Although the small squared-top sports steering wheel isn’t to everyone’s taste we loved it not only for its feel but also because it provides an unobstructed view of the digital instrument panel.
One of our least-favourite features in most new releases is lane correction which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s steering, often quite vigorously, to keep it in the centre of the lane. While we normally turn the feature off before we start our test, we found the correction in the 508 quite subtle and were more than happy to let it do its job.
We love driving electric cars with their sharp, smooth and silent acceleration and the 508 PHEV provides plenty of that when it’s in EV mode.
Out on the open road the 508 is in its element with the ride and handling that has always made Peugeots so popular with keen drivers. The GT tag is used far too often in current cars and in most cases is meaningless. No so in the 508 GT because it is far closer to being a Grand Tourer capable of cruising long distances through interesting drive routes.
With our JetCharge Wallbox we were able to fully charge the small battery in the PHEV in just over three hours. Peugeot lists a battery-only range of 55 kilometres. The best we could manage, in fairly moderate driving conditions, was 40 km.
Like all the other plug-in hybrids on the market that offer pure EV driving, Peugeot lists a totally unrealistic fuel consumption figure of 1.8 litres per 100 kilometres. With the battery fully-charged we covered 100 km using 3.4 L/100km. Although that’s nearly double the listed figure it’s still very good. However, with the battery flat, and running in normal hybrid mode including battery regeneration, we averaged a less-impressive 6.4 L/100km.
SUMMING UP
If you’ve had enough of the functionality and sensibleness of your SUV and crave a bit of driving enjoyment then the Peugeot 508 could be just what you’re looking for.
It’s a superbly-crafted and stylish car that drew admiring looks wherever we went.
However, unless you can conveniently maintain a charge in the battery and limit the distances travelled, then we feel the extra $17,000 that you need to pay for the PHEV over the petrol-only equivalent GT just can’t be justified.
All Peugeot passenger vehicles come with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty extended to eight years, but limited to 160,000 km, on the battery.
Stop Press: As of the 1st of July 2022, Peugeot increased the prices on its passenger vehicles by 6.0 percent. This equates to between $3591 and $4620 on the 508. We suggest you get in quick and do some serious haggling at your local dealership.
RATINGS:
Looks: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Safety 8/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 7/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Overall: 8/10
AT A GLANCE
MODEL RANGE (prices as at 1 July 2022)
508 1.6 GT Fastback: $63,431
508 1.6 GT PHEV Fastback: $81,610
508 1.6 GT Sportswagon: $65,657
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Peugeot dealer for drive-away prices.
SPECIFICATIONS (Peugeot 508 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-door sedan)
ENGINE:
Capacity: 1.598 litres
Configuration: Four cylinders in line
Maximum Power: 133 kW @ 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 300 Nm @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded petrol
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 1.8 L/100km
CO2 Emissions: 40 g/km
DRIVELINE: Eight-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:
Length: 4750 mm
Wheelbase: 2800 mm
Width: 1860 mm
Height: 1410 mm
Turning Circle: 10.8 metres
Kerb Mass: 1720 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity: 43 litres
BRAKES:
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Solid disc
STANDARD WARRANTY:
Five years / unlimited kilometres
2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure
By Jeff Gibbs
The all-new 2025 Smart #5 electric SUV is set to revolutionise the way people experience the outdoors, combining cutting-edge electric technology with features designed for adventure. Created through a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely (Volvo’s parent company), the “hashtag five” is poised to change weekend getaways with a unique blend of off-road capability, luxury, and tech.
Power and Range At the heart of the Smart #5 is a massive 100kWh battery, offering an impressive range of more than 700 kilometres on a single charge. But this vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s equipped to power outdoor adventures. The Smart #5 can run a variety of appliances, including a fridge, movie projector, and a high-fidelity stereo, making it an ideal companion for camping trips and outdoor escapes.
Design and Off-Road Capability Sized similarly to a Subaru Forester, the Smart #5 is designed for mild off-road tasks with all-wheel-drive traction and ample ground clearance. For those looking to push further into the wild, an optional off-road pack draws inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, featuring practical additions like a fold-down ladder, rooftop cargo tray, and external storage for muddy or wet gear.
Luxurious Interior and Advanced Technology Inside, the Smart #5 offers a premium experience with a digital dashboard and two high-resolution AMOLED displays. The SUV also boasts an augmented reality head-up display, giving drivers enhanced navigation and information at a glance. Powered by a water-cooled computer processor, the system can run movies and video games, turning the car into an entertainment hub for remote locations.
2025 Smart #5 Interior
The vehicle’s heated seats come with a massage function and can fold flat to create a “king size” sleeping space — perfect for overnight stays, though likely not quite as large as a traditional mattress. Adding to the luxurious feel, the Sennheiser surround sound system provides immersive audio, while a cute electronic avatar acts as a digital assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.
Innovative Features for Outdoor Adventures One of the standout features is the built-in movie projector, which, combined with the climate-controlled cabin, offers a unique way to relax under the stars. The SUV’s robust electrical system also allows it to power various appliances, transforming campsites into high-tech getaways.
Launch and Market Plans Though pricing details have not been confirmed, industry expectations suggest the Smart #5 could approach the $100,000 mark, especially given its extensive features and capabilities. This places it above the smaller Smart #1 and Smart #3 models.
The brand’s decision to debut the model globally in Byron Bay, Australia, underscores its intent to bring the Smart #5 to the Australian market. After its initial release in China later this year, production for Australia is expected to begin in 2025, with journalists from Europe and Asia already traveling to see the model in person.
With its combination of eco-friendly electric power, innovative tech, and off-road capability, the 2025 Smart #5 promises to be a game-changer in the electric SUV market, catering to those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or modern conveniences.
For more motoring news, click here.
2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range
By Jeff Gibbs
The 2025 Audi e-tron GT has been officially revealed, showcasing a significant power boost, extended driving range, and updated styling. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, with Australian launch dates yet to be confirmed, the updated electric sedan offers cutting-edge performance and luxurious features.
The refreshed e-tron GT now includes two key variants: the S e-tron GT and the top-of-the-line RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models benefit from a technical overhaul, with the RS Performance boasting a staggering 680kW of power, making it the most powerful Audi road car to date. Powered by a new 97kWh battery, the e-tron GT offers up to 604km of driving range, a notable improvement thanks to new battery cell chemistry and recuperation capabilities.
Performance Highlights:
- The S e-tron GT delivers 500kW, an increase of 110kW over the previous base model, while the RS e-tron GT ramps up to 630kW. The top-tier RS e-tron GT Performance pushes output to 680kW, making it just shy of the 700kW figure from its Porsche Taycan Turbo S sibling.
- The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to just 2.5 seconds in the RS Performance, while the S and RS variants clock in at 3.4 and 2.8 seconds, respectively.
- The upgraded battery system allows for 320kW DC fast charging, which can add 280km of range in just 10 minutes.
Mechanical and Technological Enhancements Audi has introduced a lighter rear motor and a new two-chamber adaptive air suspension system, providing a refined balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension system is shared with the Porsche Taycan, and it actively adjusts to enhance cornering and acceleration.
2025 Audi e-tron GT Interior
The braking system has also been overhauled, with larger steel brakes on the S e-tron GT, while the RS and RS Performance models come with tungsten carbide-coated or carbon-ceramic discs, respectively.
The RS Performance features a carbon-fibre roof, optional ‘carbon camouflage’ exterior trim, and a glass roof with liquid-crystal film, which can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.
Interior and Styling Updates Inside, Audi has upgraded the cabin with a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable seats with massaging functions, and the use of eco-friendly materials like Dinamica suede and recycled Cascade fabric. Audi has also introduced fresh dashboard trim inlays and updated the digital instrument cluster with new displays for battery temperature and performance metrics.
On the exterior, the 2025 e-tron GT sports revised front bumpers, larger air intakes on the RS, and an optional black grille. It also debuts Audi’s new simplified four-ring logo, along with new 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels inspired by the 1991 Audi Avus concept car.
With these significant upgrades, Audi is positioning the 2025 e-tron GT as a high-performance electric sedan that combines luxury, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling power, solidifying its place as a strong competitor in the premium electric vehicle market.
For more motoring news, click here.
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