From the front you have the 508′s feline headlights and smart shark-like grille. From the side the 508 has sculpted, flowing and well-balanced lines, and from the back, the high boot and stylish light cluster. Whichever way you look at it, this car is a stunner.

The inside is nice too. The electrically adjustable, heated front seats are extremely comfortable with a good range of adjustment. There are plenty of storage spaces around the interior, and all instruments are clear and accessible. There’s also a head-up display, which takes a bit of getting used to, but once you have it’s a good feature, showing speed and navigation instructions.

I drove the very nippy 204 brake horsepower 508 GT HDi 200 powered by a smooth 2.2 litre direct injection diesel engine. It’s supremely quiet, even when worked hard, with good acceleration and flexibility. Mated to a slick six speed box you also get good economy; 49.5 miles to the gallon in mixed driving.

Ride and handling are excellent thanks to a lightweight chassis and good suspension. 

Specification on the GT trim level is generous. Standard equipment includes leather seats, electrically folding heated door mirrors (they fold automatically when you lock the doors) automatic windscreen wipers and directional headlights, remote central locking with keyless entry and ignition, cruise control, rear parking aid, satellite navigation, automatic air conditioning, airbags all round and 18 inch alloys. On the road price for this spec is £29,050. Not cheap, but you get a lot of car for your money. 

I like this French saloon a lot. For my money it’s the best car in its sector.

Road test by Ian Strachan Communications Ltd

Ian Strachan is a motoring and business writer and PR consultant. He can be contacted on 01543 490932 or 07949 202596 or via email: ian@strachan13.freeserv