The Peugeot 508 I RXH (Phase II), produced from 2014 to 2018, represented a unique offering within the Peugeot 508 range. Positioned as a crossover, it blended the styling of a sedan with increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive capability (though this specific 2.0 BlueHDi variant was front-wheel drive). This Phase II update brought styling refinements and technological upgrades to the original RXH, launched in 2012. The 2.0 BlueHDi 180 Automatic variant occupied a mid-range position in the RXH lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical, stylish, and economical vehicle with a touch of ruggedness.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 508 |
| Generation | 508 I RXH (Phase II, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 BlueHDi (180 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 104.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | AHW DW10FC |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1717 kg (3785.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 523 kg (1153.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 512 l (18.08 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1598 l (56.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4828 mm (190.08 in.) |
| Width | 1864 mm (73.39 in.) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2815 mm (110.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 184 mm (7.24 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 | 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 508 RXH 2.0 BlueHDi Automatic is the DW10FC engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine, identified by the AHW code, is a member of Peugeot/Citroën’s HDi family, known for its efficiency and refinement. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 180 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at just 2000 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of modern diesel engines, providing strong pulling power and relaxed cruising. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6 standards. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and efficient gear changes. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it provides adequate performance for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 BlueHDi Automatic powertrain delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The high torque output means that strong acceleration is available from low engine speeds, making overtaking and merging onto highways effortless. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, although it isn’t particularly sporty or quick to respond to driver input. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 508 RXH, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in urban traffic. However, it does slightly diminish the sense of driver engagement. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.5 seconds is respectable for a diesel-powered crossover. The front-wheel drive configuration provides predictable handling, but lacks the all-weather capability of the all-wheel drive RXH models. The suspension setup prioritizes comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 508 RXH 2.0 BlueHDi Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its mid-range positioning. Standard features included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of cloth and leather. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as full leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a premium sound system and xenon headlights.
Chassis & Braking
The 508 RXH features a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering strong stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The RXH’s increased ride height compared to the standard 508 sedan provides a more commanding driving position and improved visibility. The standard tire size is 245/45 R18, offering a good compromise between grip and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot 508 RXH was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. The 2.0 BlueHDi Automatic variant was considered a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing practicality and economy. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 BlueHDi 180 manual, the automatic offered greater convenience but slightly reduced performance. The all-wheel drive RXH models were favored by those needing enhanced traction in inclement weather. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 51.1 US mpg, making it a competitive option in its class.
Legacy
The Peugeot 508 RXH, while not a massive sales success, represented an interesting experiment in blending the practicality of a wagon with the styling of a crossover. The 2.0 BlueHDi engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, and well-maintained examples continue to offer good value on the used car market. The automatic transmission, while not the most advanced, has also proven to be generally reliable. Today, the 508 RXH is appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique styling and comfortable driving experience, offering a distinctive alternative to more mainstream crossovers.
