The new Peugeot 508 RXH is a bit misleading - that's what it is.
Where previously the chunky bodykit and raised ride height was unique to the four-wheel drive, electric-diesel 'Hybrid4' powertrain, this is in fact a straightforward front-wheel drive 508 estate, wearing the hybrid's mud-faring regalia.
Still, with 178bhp from the 2.0-litre diesel, and a six-speed automatic as standard - a powertrain that's only available with the range-topping GT 508 SW - this diesel RXH offers good mid-range performance and a massive saving of £4350 over the hybrid model which is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel and an electric motor.
On top of that, the entry-level car's emissions are a very respectable 119g/km, which could make it actually a lot more sense than the 'proper' hybrid RXH.
Peugeot intends for the 508 to compete with more upmarket rivals from the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, and you can see what they've done to support that claim in the RXH's interior.
It feels solidly put together, and with a standard panoramic glass roof brightening everything up and heated, electrically-adjustable seats, the sheer level of equipment makes it feel cosseting.
However, the perceived quality of the switchgear, a few of the plastics, and a slightly unintuitive dash layout doesn't quite live up to the standards of the minimalist interiors that generally sets the German offerings apart.
There's plenty of room in the back and the boot is a good shape, though, even if rear legroom and boot capacity falls short of what you'd get in plenty of rivals, including the Skoda Superb estate and Subaru Outback.
On the equipment front, Peugeot has kept it simple with only one trim level to choose from - RXH, which equips the car with 18in alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, satin roof rails and a rugged bodykit, alongside technology such as parking sensors, heated door mirrors, electric windows, adaptive LED headlights, and keyless start and entry. Inside there is cruise control, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable and heated front seats, head-up display and Peugeot's 7.0in touchscreen infotainment system complete with DAB radio, reversing camera, sat nav, Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
The way the diesel RXH drives is more of a letdown. It's absolutely fine in normal use, but it's no more than fine. Its auto 'box is pretty sluggish, and even under moderate acceleration or on an incline, it sometimes decides to change down when you don't expect it to.
