Audi RS4 vs Peugeot 508

What's the difference?

It's the end of the line for that Audi A4 as we know it. In saying goodbye to the ‘B9’ generation A4 that launched in 2015, we welcome the Audi RS4 Competition Plus. 

It is the most hardcore example of the breed yet, sitting lower to the floor with hard-edged gear changes, lightweight wheels and snuggly bucket seats. You can also get it in swoopy RS5 Sportback guise. 

Audi is only bringing 75 units of each down under as a swan song for the B9 generation RS4 and RS5 before the even-numbered model moves into its all-electric future.

As we’ll go on to discover, these two special models see the A4 and A5 bow out in style.

The humble station wagon has fallen by the wayside in favour of the ever-popular SUV, however, it was once more common for a very good reason.

It offers the space many families crave without having to upsize into a vehicle that can feel big and bulky.

A lot of drivers enjoy the sportier on-road feel and the good-looking styling that often accompanies a wagon. Enter the Peugeot 508 Sportswagon. A model that proves wagons can be hot.

I’m family-testing the top GT plug-in hybrid model this week but there’s not a lot to compare it to because of the interesting engine specs.

So, we’re being a bit cheeky and doing an ‘apples with oranges’ comparo instead.

Being on the premium end, the 508 Sportswagon faces competition from the Audi A4 Allroad 45 TFSI, Genesis G70 Shooting Brake and Volvo V60 Cross Country Ultimate.

It certainly has the looks to turn heads but we’re sussing out whether it’s a practical alternative for families, too.