Peugeot 508 II (R8) (2018 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The Peugeot 508 II (R8 generation) marks a radical break from its predecessor. Gone is the classic three-box sedan; Peugeot opts for a 5-door 'fastback' coupe silhouette (and a very sleek SW estate) with frameless windows. Based on the EMP2 platform, it targets the premium segment (Audi A5 Sportback, VW Arteon) with high-flying road handling and a spectacular interior (i-Cockpit). Restyled in early 2023 (new grille, integration of the new emblem, 3-claw light signature), it has progressively abandoned its pure thermal powertrains in favor of plug-in hybrid. Expert's overall rating: An exceptional road car dynamically, but with very heterogeneous mechanical reliability. While the 2.0 BlueHDi engines are excellent asphalt devourers, the 1.5 BlueHDi and the depollution systems (AdBlue) requir

✅ Strengths

Exceptional road handling (benchmark comfort/dynamism compromise)
Spectacular and timeless exterior design (fastback and SW)
Intrinsic mechanical reliability of 2.0 BlueHDi engines
Significantly improved finish quality (materials, assembly)
Excellent EAT8 automatic gearbox (smooth and responsive)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the AdBlue depollution system (all diesels)
Possible engine failure on the 1.5 BlueHDi (7mm chain)
Limited rear legroom and headroom (a consequence of the design)
Slow and sometimes buggy multimedia system (NAC) before the facelift
Frequent wind noise from the frameless windows

🎯 Verdict

The Peugeot 508 II is a car to fall in love with, designed for high-mileage drivers. If you're looking for a diesel, the choice is binary: avoid the 1.5 BlueHDi 130 (unless it has been made reliable with the 8mm chain and a new AdBlue tank) and absolutely prioritize the 2.0 BlueHDi 160 or 180. This 2.0-liter engine is one of the best diesels of its generation, capable of devouring kilometers without flinching, provided you budget for the inevitable AdBlue tank quirk. In petrol, the 1.6 PureTech is a good compromise, while the 1.2 PureTech is to be avoided in this segment. PHEV versions are fiscally interesting but complex in the long term.

Common issues

Défaillance du système AdBlue (réservoir, pompe, injecteur) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 800 – 1 800 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien AdBlue; utiliser additif préventif; éviter de rouler réservoir vide.

Encrassage ou défaillance de la vanne EGR Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 350 – 700 €

Privilégier les longs trajets; un nettoyage préventif peut prolonger sa durée de vie.

Encrassage du filtre à particules (FAP) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 800 – 2 000 €

Effectuer régulièrement des trajets longs à régime moteur élevé pour favoriser la régénération.

Défaillance de capteurs moteur (pression différentielle FAP, température) Low

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 150 – 400 €

Un diagnostic électronique régulier peut aider à anticiper ces pannes.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 150
Timing belt	£550 – 1 100
Clutch	£850 – 1 500
Complete brakes	£280 – 580
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.