Why doesn’t the GCC like hybrids and diesels? Is it because our petrol is so cheap (not for long) and our diesel so rubbish? Is it because we’re not really sure what a hybrid is? No, it’s because nobody wants an expensive Prius here when they can buy a ‘Rolla for pocket change, but there most certainly is a need for a hybrid the size of an SUV with all-wheel drive and comfortable seating for five. Enter the Peugeot 508 RXH, and we’re honestly hoping the French manufacturer has the guts to offer it here.
Here’s the low-down; it’s a hybrid, it’s all-wheel drive, it’s diesel and it’s a crossover. It can’t lose. With 200bhp on offer if you use full system power and the ability to roll along silently in 100 per cent electric mode too, the emissions of the 508 RXH are just 109g/km of CO2. We can attest to great build quality too, as we’ve already seen on the brilliant new Peugeot 508 saloon and RCZ Coupé.
The car’s road presence and design also offers a lot more prestige than a Prius or an i-MiEV, with the distinguishing RXH features being the LED lights flanking a ‘floating’ grille. Standard equipment in the cabin is a keyless system, electric seats, a head up display, 18in wheels, panoramic glass roof, as well as the latest generation audio and satellite navigation unit
The 2.0-litre HDi motor helps to provide 450Nm of torque, meaning the RXH won’t be no slouch. In the urban environment, the electric mode means zero fuel consumption and zero emissions. It sounds like the first proper family hybrid, and a perfect solution if you live in the city, which you do. And with fuel prices set to rise to international standards over the next couple of years, the 508 RXH will be most welcome in our region after its official world premiere at the Frankfurt motor show this September, and sale date next spring.
