The Peugeot 508 SW is undoubtedly a stylish vehicle. It certainly stands out from the crowd, and exhibits a certain panache. But what’s it like to drive, tow with, and live with?
The best tow cars for caravans offer stability, reliability and a comfortable interior, but does this Peugeot? Let’s find out.
How does a used Peugeot 508 SW drive?
The 2.0-litre BlueHDi diesel is ideal for towing, although it was replaced in 2021 with a 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel that isn’t quite as strong, but is more economical.
The 2.0 engine produces 295lb ft of torque and this, with the eight-speed automatic transmission, means it gets up to speed briskly when towing. It deals well with hill starts, helped by its electronic handbrake.
What about caravan speed limits? Well, stability on motorways is unshakeable, and the car easily holds a constant speed, two traits to look out for when on the hunt for the best used car for towing a caravan.
When you’re not towing, the 508 SW is relatively quiet and handles safely, although the ride can feel a little firm at times. The steering could do with being a bit sharper, but switching to Sport helps this, and the light steering aids manoeuvrability in town.
Economy is fair, averaging 42.2-51.1mpg and around 29mpg when towing.
What’s a used Peugeot 508 SW like inside?
As with most Peugeots, the 508’s dashboard is slightly unusual, and is called i-Cockpit. You sit facing a tiny steering wheel and view the digital instruments over the top of it, although this is made trickier if you are shorter in stature. Still, the front seats sit relatively high to counter this.
Despite the loftiness of the seats, there is reasonable headroom and legroom up front, and plenty of adjustment for the driving position once you are accustomed to the low-set steering wheel. Behind, the headroom is fair, but the legroom is much tighter, which is a shame.
Still, people buy estate tow cars for their load space, and the Peugeot has a respectable 530 litres when the rear seats are raised, and 1780 with them down. It isn’t a match for bigger rivals such as the Škoda Superb Estate, but it’s still roomy.
The boot is a good, regular shape, too, and the back seats fold flat with a tug of the levers either side of the boot opening.
It’s well equipped, no matter which trim you go for – even entry-level models have dual-zone climate control, alloy wheels and rear parking sensors. Add in one of the best caravan sat navs and you’ll be well on your way to an enjoyable towing experience.
Heated seats and part-leather upholstery appear in Allure trim, while LED lights and sports seats feature in GT Line. GT offers an electric tailgate and adaptive suspension.
What will it tow?
- Kerbweight: 1575kg
- Towing limit: 1800kg
- Noseweight limit: 70kg
- 85% match: 1339kg
Running costs
- Insurance group 30
- Annual VED £180
- Average economy 51.1mpg
- Interim/full service £168/£218
Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262
Trouble spots
The second-generation 508 SW hasn’t been recalled too often.
Some cars were returned to dealers for an engine management software update, while others were the subject of a recall for faulty batteries.
Incorrectly tightened bolts later accounted for another recall of a small number of vehicles, while others were recalled because of the potential risk of cracks appearing in the diesel particulate filter.
A full list of recalls can be found at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
What to pay for a used Peugeot 508 SW
- High: Price: £28,995, model: 2022 1.5 BlueHDi GT Premium, miles: 13,000
- Sweet spot: price: £18,700, model: 2019 2.0 BlueHDi GT Line, miles: 30,500
- Low: price: £11,300, model: 2019 1.6 PureTech Allure, miles: 104,000
Verdict
The Peugeot 508 SW is a practical and well-equipped tow car that deals well with a medium-sized caravan. It’s easy to drive and has a sensibly sized boot (even if it trails some rivals for space), so it’s just a shame that it isn’t roomier for people. So, style over substance? Evidently not.
Alternatives to consider
Used Škoda Superb Estate Mk3 (2015-present)
The Škoda Superb Estate is huge and can easily carry five adults and their luggage. Fold the rear seats and you could comfortably sleep in it.
It’s fabulously well built and the large engine range means there’s a powertrain to suit almost everyone.
Volkswagen Passat Estate Mk8 (2015-2023)
The VW Passat Estate is one of those cars that manages to feel incredibly practical and a cut above its rivals. Everything feels exceptionally well put together and the vehicle
looks classy, inside and out. There’s a huge range of powertrains available, with manual and automatic transmissions, and cabin space is generous, too.
Used Seat Tarraco (2018-present)
The Seat Tarraco is a strong and stable tow car to consider, although it’s worth considering how you feel about a firm ride.
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