What's the difference?
The Honda Accord is now in its 11th generation and there was a time when the Accord, and rivals like the Skoda Superb and Toyota Camry were the perfect family cars.
But if you head to a car park, it's obvious they're no longer the choice when it comes to family hauling.
We’re family testing the new Accord, now offered in one highly-specified variant, to see if its new hybrid powertrain and design are worth a look in a world where the SUV is king.
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.
Will the new Honda Accord e:HEV RS topple the SUV throne? Unlikely, but it proves sedans can still haul the family around in relative comfort and style.
The new Accord drives stupidly well and offers great ongoing ownership costs, even if it's price tag is a little steep. It's hybrid powertrain also offers fantastic efficiency and that's a big win.
The Peugeot 508 Sportswagon GT PHEV proves wagons can be extremely stylish but looks aren’t everything and it is an expensive option compared to its luxury rivals. It earns its place with the premium interior but the safety could be improved on and the tech is more confusing than it needs to be. But this wagon offers an alternative for families who are sick of being in an SUV yet still need a little extra space.
My son didn’t go nuts over this and complained about his view.