WHEN so many executive cars are virtually the same it takes something special to stand out from the suited ranks, such as the Peugeot 508 Diesel Hybrid4.

Introduced in 2012, Peugeot pioneered diesel and electric powertrains under the 3008 in February and quickly moved up market with the larger 508 series last May.

Under the bonnet is a combined advanced turbo-diesel engine and electric motor which effectively split the drive between front and rear wheels and only work upon demand, either manually selected or automatically by the on-board computers.

With a six-speed semi-automatic gearbox and one high level specification, it is aimed squarely at the executive sector, but it can be further refined with an extensive list of extras.

The powertrain is a very sophisticated and smooth system delivering strong, instant acceleration from rest and through the gears, and whether the driver manually selects a preferred mode or left to its own devices the electric motor seamlessly integrates to give extra urge for overtaking.

Lift off and deceleration is strong as the regeneration system kicks in.

The car is brisk and fairly quiet unless driven hard with road noise being the most notable point as wind noises are very low.

The refinement of the powertrain and chassis continues with the steering and brakes, both operating with a lot of feel and feedback but only requiring minimum input from a driver.

Secondary controls are well laid out to easily locate and operate and the extremely attractive instruments are very clear and easy to understand.

A multi-function display covers most frequently used modes and once understood is simple to operate.

The climate control is comprehensive and effective at its job, keeping the windows clear and the cabin temperature as desired.

Access is very good for passengers so long as you duck your head to reach the front seats due to the flowing roofline, and the loadbed is easy to use, but with the battery pack under the floor the total capacity is not as big as in a conventional 508 estate, but its still good.

The seats are extremely comfortable with deep padding, a lot of adjustment and a very good shape so long journeys just glide by and the urban crawl becomes tolerable, particularly when you know how efficient is the powertrain.

Ride quality is very good if a little firm. It soaks up the worst road bumps even if it is not quiet doing so, and it has a safe feel to the handling although it's not agile.

Visibility is good to front and sides in all conditions and helped by very long range, wide spread headlights, but the big rear three-quarter pillars and high waistline do restrict sight-lines when reversing and you really need the sensors to protect it.

You have a slightly higher ground clearance that under the SW estate and better bodywork protection but its not a fully blown 4x4.

The technology works really well and mostly unobtrusively to deliver a refined motoring experience which sets it apart, but it also pitches the Peugeot 508 Hybrid4 into a highly competitive sector of executive models which are quicker and more dynamic to drive and which can offer more total carrying space as well.

If you're not worried about what's behind, what is up front with the Peugeot 508 RXH Hybrid4 could swing the decision for you.