2014-2018 Peugeot 508 I SW (Phase II ) 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) Automatic

The Peugeot 508 I SW (Phase II), specifically the 1.6 VTi 120 horsepower automatic variant, was a key offering in Peugeot’s lineup from 2014 to 2018. Positioned as a mid-range option within the 508 SW (Station Wagon) family, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfort for European buyers. This iteration of the 508 SW, a facelift of the original 508 introduced in 2010, benefited from styling updates and refinements to the interior. The Phase II models, like this 1.6 VTi, were designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle for both daily commuting and longer journeys. It competed directly with other European station wagons like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Opel/Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer.

Technical Specifications

INTRODUCTION

The Peugeot 508 I SW (Phase II) 1.6 VTi Automatic, produced between 2014 and 2018, represents a practical and efficient option within the broader 508 SW range. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, this variant was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and ease of driving over outright performance. It served as an entry point into the 508 SW lineup, offering a more affordable alternative to the more powerful diesel and petrol options. The SW (Station Wagon) body style was particularly popular in Europe, where practicality and cargo space are highly valued. The Phase II facelift brought subtle but noticeable improvements to the exterior styling, interior quality, and available technology.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the 508 I SW 1.6 VTi Automatic lies the 5FS EP6C engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of Peugeot’s Prince engine family, developed in collaboration with BMW. It features a multi-point fuel injection system and four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission isn’t known for its sportiness, prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency over rapid shifts. The engine’s architecture is relatively simple, lacking turbocharging or direct injection, which contributes to its generally good reliability, but also limits its overall performance potential.

Driving Characteristics

The driving experience in the 508 I SW 1.6 VTi Automatic is best described as comfortable and relaxed. The 120 horsepower engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, but acceleration is not particularly brisk. The 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 11.8 seconds reflects this. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat hesitant when needing to make quick downshifts. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 THP turbocharged engine or the 2.0-liter HDi diesel options, this variant feels noticeably slower. However, the 1.6 VTi offers a more linear power delivery, making it easy to modulate the throttle. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at lower revolutions during cruising, contributing to a quieter cabin experience.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The 1.6 VTi Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a CD/radio audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, available as options, added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with the option of partial leather trim on some models. The dashboard layout was typical of Peugeot at the time, featuring a driver-focused design with intuitive controls.

Chassis & Braking

The 508 I SW 1.6 VTi Automatic utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling characteristics are geared towards everyday usability rather than aggressive driving.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Peugeot 508 I SW 1.6 VTi Automatic received generally positive reviews for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Critics noted that the engine lacked the punch of the turbocharged or diesel alternatives, but acknowledged that it was sufficient for most drivers. Compared to the 2.0-liter HDi diesel, the 1.6 VTi offered lower running costs in terms of fuel, but higher fuel consumption overall. The diesel also provided significantly more torque, resulting in better acceleration and towing capacity. Against the 1.6 THP petrol, the VTi was less powerful but often more reliable due to its simpler engine design. The 508 SW 1.6 VTi Automatic represented a value-oriented option within the segment.

Legacy

The 508 I SW 1.6 VTi Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The naturally aspirated engine, while not particularly exciting, is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. Common issues are typically limited to wear-and-tear items such as suspension components and brake pads. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained, is also generally reliable. Today, these vehicles can be found at affordable prices, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a practical and economical station wagon. While not a performance icon, the 508 I SW 1.6 VTi Automatic remains a testament to Peugeot’s commitment to providing comfortable, efficient, and versatile vehicles for the European market.