The Peugeot 508 PSE (Peugeot Sport Engineered) 1.6 PureTech 360, introduced in 2023 as part of the Phase II refresh of the 508 II generation, represents the performance pinnacle of the 508 lineup. Built on the EMP1 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with other Stellantis vehicles), the PSE is a plug-in hybrid fastback designed to blend sporty driving dynamics with improved fuel efficiency. It distinguishes itself from other 508 variants through its significantly increased power output, all-wheel drive system, and unique styling cues. Production began in 2023, positioning the PSE as a direct competitor to performance-oriented sedans from German manufacturers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 508 |
| Generation | 508 II (Phase II, 2023) |
| Type | PSE 1.6 PureTech (360 Hp) 4WD Plug-in Hybrid e-EAT8 |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.8 l/100 km (130.7 US mpg, 156.9 UK mpg, 55.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 40 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 192.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 278.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 12.4 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 52 km (32.31 mi) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power (1) | 110 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (1) | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (1) | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor power (2) | 113 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (2) | 166 Nm (122.44 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 360 Hp |
| System torque | 520 Nm (383.53 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1866 kg (4113.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 454 kg (1000.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 487 l (17.2 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1537 l (54.28 cu. ft.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs.) |
| Length | 4750 mm (187.01 in.) |
| Width | 1859 mm (73.19 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2079 mm (81.85 in.) |
| Height | 1403 mm (55.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2793 mm (109.96 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). PHEV. ICE drives front, electric motors drive front and rear. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission e-EAT8 |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 268×12 mm |
| Tires size | 245/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 508 PSE is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder PureTech engine (code EP6CDT), producing 200 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger for enhanced responsiveness. Crucially, it’s paired with two electric motors. The primary electric motor, positioned between the engine and the eight-speed e-EAT8 automatic transmission, delivers 110 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. A second, smaller electric motor (113 horsepower and 166 Nm / 122 lb-ft) is mounted on the rear axle, providing on-demand all-wheel drive. The combined system output is a substantial 360 horsepower and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque. The 12.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the rear seats and floor, provides an all-electric range of up to 52 kilometers (32.3 miles) under WLTP testing. The e-EAT8 transmission is specifically tuned for the hybrid powertrain, offering smooth and rapid gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 508 PSE delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to other 508 variants. The instant torque from the electric motors, combined with the turbocharged engine, results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.9 seconds. The all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The e-EAT8 transmission is well-matched to the powertrain, offering quick shifts and contributing to a refined driving experience. While the added weight of the battery pack (approximately 300 kg / 660 lbs) is noticeable, the increased power more than compensates. The car offers selectable driving modes, including an electric mode, a hybrid mode, and a Sport mode, each altering the powertrain’s behavior and steering feel. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and stiffens the adaptive dampers (standard equipment).
Equipment & Trim Levels
The PSE trim level is the highest specification available for the 508. Standard features include a premium leather interior with Alcantara accents, sport seats with enhanced bolstering, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a digital instrument cluster, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Exterior styling cues include a unique front grille, a rear diffuser, and larger alloy wheels. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and advanced parking assist features. The interior generally features a dark and sporty aesthetic, with red stitching and PSE badging throughout.
Chassis & Braking
The 508 PSE features a specially tuned chassis to handle the increased power and weight. The front suspension utilizes McPherson struts with a stiffer spring rate and anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup with similar enhancements. Brakes are upgraded to larger ventilated discs at the front (380mm) and solid discs at the rear (268mm) to provide increased stopping power. The car also benefits from a more powerful brake booster. The steering is electrically assisted and offers precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 508 PSE was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. Compared to the standard 508 1.6 PureTech models, the PSE offers a significant performance upgrade. Against competitors like the BMW 330e and Mercedes-Benz C300e, the 508 PSE offered a compelling combination of performance, style, and value. Some reviewers noted the slightly firm ride quality, but acknowledged that this was a trade-off for the improved handling. Fuel economy in hybrid mode is excellent, and the all-electric range is sufficient for many daily commutes.
Legacy
The Peugeot 508 PSE represents a significant step forward for Peugeot in terms of performance and technology. While relatively new to the market, early reports suggest that the powertrain is proving to be reliable. The hybrid system, while complex, has demonstrated good durability. On the used car market, the PSE commands a premium price compared to other 508 variants, reflecting its higher performance and exclusive features. It is likely to become a sought-after model among enthusiasts seeking a stylish and engaging driving experience with a reduced environmental impact.
