Peugeot Sport Engineered launches with hot hybrid 508

Perhaps that’s not saying an awful lot but 360PS (265kW) from its hybrid powertrain is not to be sniffed at. The raw performance numbers are as follows: 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds, a limited top speed of 155mph and a curious one – 50-74mph in three seconds. The latter likely highlights the kind of torque punch you can expect from an electric-heavy performance hybrid powertrain.

Perhaps to an end of ‘paving the way for a new era in which the kilowatt is king’, Peugeot hasn’t actually detailed the specifications of the combustion engine in the powertrain. All it states is a system output of 360PS and 520Nm (385Nm) of torque, acceleration, and top speed for performance. Perhaps it’s a hybridised variant of the 1.6 turbo-four found in the 208 GTi?

In terms of efficiency, the figures are WLTP-certified CO₂ and MPG figures of 46g/km and 139mpg respectively and a zero-emissions range of 26 miles. The battery (size not stated) charges in seven hours from a domestic socket, and in less than two from a 7kW wall box. Boot space is not affected by the batteries by comparison to a standard version.

Five driving modes are available to tailor the drivetrain’s function. The conventional modes are Electric (EV-only up to 26 miles and 86mph), Comfort (Hybrid, softened suspension) and Hybrid (for maximum efficiency).

Sport is more performance-oriented, giving you the full 360PS, while also featuring a ‘digital engine sound system’. Steering, suspension and power delivery parameters are sharpened up accordingly, while the petrol engine ensures the battery remains charged to deliver full power as much as possible. The final mode, 4WD, is for low-traction situations.

The ‘digital engine sound system’ we suspect plays into PSE’s new philosophy of Neo-Performance – combining renewed and responsible performance. We’re curious to hear it...

Slightly mysterious though this new model seems to be, the looks leave little to the imagination. This is a performance variant by most aesthetic measures. All around the car are lurid green touches officially called ‘Kryptonite’. Your front bumper air intakes, brake callipers, rear-quarter/front wing ‘claws’ and badges will be sure to scare off Superman. A prominent front splitter, rear diffuser, exhaust tips and gloss black touches all around the car complete the look. No hypercar (that comes later) but no shrinking violet, either.

Superman won’t be able to hide in the cabin, either. ‘Kryptonite’ touches are everywhere from the wheel to the infotainment, to the stitching all around the car. The leather and Alcantara seats are a nice de rigeur sporty touch. Boot space is not affected by the batteries by comparison to a standard version, which is nice.

All of this sits well on the 508, an already excellent-looking car inside and out. Now with this kind of power and performance, those LED fangs have a bit of bite to back them up. Pricing and availability are yet to be divulged but expect it to hit dealers in 2021 for folding money over a top-spec 508 GT Line hybrid’s £40,000 start price.