Peugeot 508 I (8D) (2010 – 2018)

Reliability score : 7.6/10

The Peugeot 508 Generation I (Internal code: 8D for sedan, 8E for SW estate) was introduced in 2010 to replace both the 407 and the flagship 607. Positioned as a premium mid-size family car (D-segment), it marked a significant step up in interior quality, sound insulation, and design maturity for Peugeot. Renowned for its excellent chassis, precise steering, and exceptional highway comfort, the 508 is a quintessential long-distance cruiser. A major facelift in 2014 brought a more vertical grille, full LED headlights on higher trims, a touchscreen infotainment system (eliminating the rotary dial), and the introduction of Euro 6 compliant BlueHDi and updated THP engines. While the diesel engines (HDi) are generally robust and perfectly suited to the car's weight, the transition to BlueHDi in

✅ Strengths

Exceptional ride quality and highway comfort
Robust and highly reliable 2.0 HDi (pre-BlueHDi) engines
High-quality interior materials that age very well
Huge trunk space, especially in the SW (estate) version
GT version features a superior double-wishbone front suspension
Excellent fuel economy across the diesel range

⚠️ Weaknesses

Widespread and expensive AdBlue tank failures on all BlueHDi models
Catastrophic reliability of the early 1.6 THP 156 petrol engine
BMP6 / ETG6 automated manual gearboxes are jerky, slow, and wear out clutches
Pre-facelift infotainment system is outdated and clunky
Lack of interior storage spaces (tiny cupholders, small door bins)
HYbrid4 system is overly complex and heavy

🎯 Verdict

The Peugeot 508 I is a fantastic, underrated highway cruiser that offers premium comfort at a mainstream price. If you are buying a diesel, the pre-2015 2.0 HDi (140 or 163 hp) is the absolute sweet spot: it is virtually bulletproof, powerful, and avoids the costly AdBlue issues of later models. If you must buy a Euro 6 model (BlueHDi), factor in a potential €1,000+ repair bill for the AdBlue tank unless it has already been replaced recently. Avoid the 1.6 THP 156 petrol engine entirely, and steer clear of the clunky BMP6/ETG6 automated manual gearboxes (opt for the true Aisin automatic or a manual). The SW (estate) paired with the 2.0 HDi 163 and a manual or EAT6 gearbox is one of the best used family cars on the market.