The Peugeot 508 I SW (Phase II), specifically the 1.6 BlueHDi variant producing 120 horsepower, was a key model in Peugeot’s lineup from 2015 to 2018. This station wagon, or “estate” as it’s known in Europe, represented a practical and fuel-efficient option within the broader 508 range, which included sedan body styles and more powerful engine choices. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance affordability with the versatility expected of a family vehicle. The Phase II update brought styling revisions and technological enhancements to the original 508 SW, solidifying its position in the competitive European D-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 508 |
| Generation | 508 I SW (Phase II, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDI (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 199 km/h (123.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.8 kg/Hp, 72.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHZ DV6FC |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1651 kg (3639.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 469 kg (1033.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1183 l (41.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1375 kg (3031.36 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4829 mm (190.12 in.) |
| Width | 1828 mm (71.97 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2068 mm (81.42 in.) |
| Height | 1456 mm (57.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2817 mm (110.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1579 mm (62.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this 508 SW variant is the 1.6-liter BlueHDi engine, specifically the BHZ DV6FC code. This engine is part of Peugeot’s DV6 family, a series of inline-four diesel engines known for their efficiency and relatively compact size. The “BlueHDi” designation signifies the inclusion of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, utilizing AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, ensuring compliance with stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The engine employs a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output and improve torque delivery. Fuel is delivered via a common rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine’s valvetrain features two overhead camshafts (DOHC) controlling four valves per cylinder. The 120 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque are delivered at relatively low engine speeds, contributing to good drivability. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its fuel efficiency and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 BlueHDi 120 hp powertrain in the 508 SW offers a comfortable and economical driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.7 seconds. However, it’s not a particularly sporty setup. The engine’s torque peak at 1750 rpm provides sufficient pulling power for overtaking and highway cruising, but it doesn’t offer the same responsiveness as higher-output versions like the 160 or 180 hp BlueHDi engines. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, with gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency. Compared to the automatic transmission options available on other 508 models, the manual provides more control and a more engaging driving experience. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well, making it a pleasant long-distance cruiser.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 BlueHDi 120 hp variant typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels, such as Allure or Feline, added features like automatic climate control, parking sensors, a navigation system, and leather upholstery. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The 508 SW features a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) are standard, enhancing safety and stability. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 BlueHDi 120 hp 508 SW was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family car. It offered a compelling alternative to rivals like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Estate, and Skoda Octavia Estate. Its fuel economy of around 56 US mpg combined was a major selling point. Compared to the more powerful 508 variants, the 1.6 BlueHDi offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The manual transmission was praised for its smooth operation and driver engagement. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. The 508 SW 1.6 BlueHDi remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. While not the most exciting car to drive, it represents a sensible and well-rounded option for families seeking a spacious and economical estate car. The engine’s longevity and relatively low maintenance costs contribute to its continued appeal.
