The Peugeot 508 I SW (Phase I), produced from 2010 to 2014, represented Peugeot’s entry into the competitive mid-size station wagon segment. The 1.6 THP (156 hp) Automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the 508 SW lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Positioned above the lower-powered diesel options and below the more potent 2.0-liter gasoline and diesel engines, this configuration aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and practical family vehicle with reasonable running costs. It was a key model for Peugeot in Europe, designed to compete with established rivals like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Opel/Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 508 |
| Generation | 508 I SW (Phase I, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (156 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 217 km/h (134.84 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FV EP6CDT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Length | 4813 mm (189.49 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2817 mm (110.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 508 SW 1.6 THP Automatic is the 5FV EP6CDT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Peugeot and Citroën’s Prince engine family, developed in collaboration with BMW. The “THP” designation stands for “Turbo High Pressure,” indicating the use of a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection. The direct injection system, operating at pressures up to 150 bar, ensures precise fuel delivery and contributes to improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for enhanced performance. The automatic transmission is a six-speed torque converter unit, chosen for its smoothness and ease of use, particularly in everyday driving situations. This transmission was not known for being particularly sporty, prioritizing comfort over rapid shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 156 hp and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.6 THP engine delivered adequate performance for the 508 SW. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 9.5 seconds, making it competitive within its class. However, it wasn’t a particularly quick vehicle. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish, especially during kickdown maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline and diesel variants, the 1.6 THP felt less responsive. The torque curve, however, was relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide rev range, making it suitable for long-distance cruising and everyday driving. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 THP Automatic variant of the 508 SW typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a CD stereo with auxiliary input, electric front and rear windows, power-adjustable mirrors, and remote central locking. Higher trim levels, such as Allure or Feline, added features like dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The 508 SW featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 508 SW 1.6 THP Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and attractive styling. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded. Fuel economy was considered good, averaging around 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg). Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 THP offered a more refined driving experience but at the cost of slightly higher fuel consumption. The automatic transmission was seen as a good match for the engine, providing smooth and effortless gear changes.
Legacy
The 1.6 THP engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly if not regularly driven on longer journeys. This can lead to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. The automatic transmission, while durable, may require servicing at higher mileages. Today, the 508 SW 1.6 THP Automatic represents a relatively affordable and practical used car option. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable running costs make it a suitable choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile station wagon. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for carbon buildup on the intake valves and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
