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Peugeot 508 SW Takes on Volvo V60 in Battle of the Sexy European Wagons

The line between premium automakers and regular ones is becoming pretty blurred in the European wagon segment. Peugeot is going after the Germans with its new 508 SW, which we saw in Paris, while the new V60 is looking to capitalize on Volvo's past success.
Peugeot 508 SW Takes on Volvo V60 in Battle of the Sexy European Wagons 3 photos
Photo: YouTube screenshot/Auto Moto
Peugeot 508 SW Takes on Volvo V60 in Battle of the Sexy European WagonsPeugeot 508 SW Takes on Volvo V60 in Battle of the Sexy European Wagons
There are plenty of other models you can have for the money. For example, the Audi A4 Avant or the spacious and affordable Skoda Superb. But if you want to have nothing to do with the Germans, these are your best bets.

Both models place a high emphasis on the presence of the car on the road, which is why the V60 doesn't have the hollow trunk we expect from the Swedish brand. Still, the two are tied at 530 liters of trunk space, which we think is sufficient for most families.

The Volvo is, however, much better at carrying passengers in the back. The 508 SW carries the high beltline of the sedan, so the side windows are small, but at least there's a lot more headroom. Also, legroom isn't as good as in the Volvo because its wheelbase is 8cm longer.

Which one has the best dashboard? You already know the answer to that one, based on how many awards Volvo has received. Its layout is minimal. The 508's cockpit setup is innovative and original, which will win it many fans, but the dials may still be blocked by the small wheel while the infotainment is laggy to respond.

On the road, the 508 SW claws back some of the lost ground. While it's about 30kg heavier than the sedan model, it's still 150kg lighter than the Volvo. Its suspension feels sure-footed while the steering is precise and responsive.

While not perfect, the Peugeot drivetrain is a little more responsive than Volvo's, which is known for sluggish off-the-line responses. The 508 offers a 1.5 base diesel which is best avoided or a 2-liter diesel with up to 180 HP. However, we think the 1.6-liter turbo with 180 or 225 HP will be more refined and better value.

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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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