We don’t expect any reader to purchase a car based on what T3 says – it’s just not our main bag, man. However, we do know a thing or two about technology and we reckon advances in in-car tech and design are extremely exciting, especially the new tech in Pug’s latest saloon

The 508 is a production version of the ‘5’ concept car that Peugeot showcased a year ago. It also borrows distinct lines from the SR1 concept, with curvy tail lights and an LED-festooned front-end. It’s one of the most sophisticated Peugeot’s we’ve seen, with the SW version competing for head-turns with the likes of the Audi A4 and Volkswagen Passat.

Inside, there’s plenty of room. The designers have been extremely clever, because the 508 not only gives the impression of space, with a huge glass roof extending back to the rear passenger seats, it actually has a lot of space, despite its outwardly compact appearance – it’s Tardis-like. The saloon offers a boot-area of 545 litres; the SW model can jump to 1,865 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

The driving experience is a pleasant one. Good cockpit insulation means your iPhone or in-car stereo doesn’t have to be stretched and distorted to be heard over the roar of the engines – choices range from a 1.6-litre petrol to 2.2-litre diesel. Plump for the e-HDi version and you’ll get the option of stop/start technology, bringing the 508 back to life at traffic lights with the slightest nudge of the accelerator. This model delivers 109g/km emissions.

Gadget-wise, the 508 is well equipped. A heads-up display appears from a chunky-looking projection unit in view just above the wheel offering speed info and basic satnav instructions. You can also opt for keyless entry and engine start, two-zone air conditioning and a rear-parking aid.

Multimedia-wise, there’s the option for Peugeot’s Connect Navigation (RT6) with Bluetooth connectivity and a JBL sound-system. Naturally, we chose to drive this version and found the connectivity straightforward – either wirelessly through A2DP or via USB. Our favourite piece of tech, however, is the automatic SOS feature that, if your airbags inflate, pinpoints your exact location and opens up a telephone link to the emergency services. There’s also a manual SOS button on the dash that, when pressed for three seconds, also opens up an emergency call.

So, a lot of tech and design that should equal a lot of bunce. However, the Access model (1.6 VTi) starts at £18,150 with the top-end GT version coming in at £10k more. Anyone with preconceived ideas of what a modern Peugeot offers, should look again.