Peugeot is entering a new performance-focused era with the unveiling of its new electrified sports sedan, the 508 Sport Engineered. This is essentially Peugeot's answer to Volvo's Polestar Engineered series.

Previewed by a concept at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the 508 Sport Engineered is the first model to launch under the automaker's new Sport Engineered performance division. Available as either a plug-in hybrid sedan of a wagon, the Peugeot 508 Sport Engineered is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with two electric motors sending a combined 355 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. That makes it the most powerful production car Peugeot has ever made in its entire history.

With this setup, 0-62 mph takes 5.2 seconds, and 50-74 mph takes three seconds before the performance sedan maxes out at an electronically-limited 155 mph. This puts its performance roughly on par with the BMW 3 Series, which will sprint from 0-62 mph in 5.6 seconds in the regular model and 4.4 seconds in the M340i with RWD. Charging the plug-in powertrain takes less than two hours using a 7-kW wall box charge point. Thanks to the layout of the electric motors and battery packaging, the interior and trunk volumes have not been compromised.

Compared to the standard 508, the Sport Engineered variant boasts improved driving dynamics thanks to its optimized variable three-mode shock absorption, a lower ride height, a widened front and rear track, beefier brakes, and 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.

Five driving modes are available: Electric, Comfort, Hybrid, Sport, and 4WD. It also boasts a sportier design, with a bold grille, a wing, bumper air intakes in Kryptonite, and black 508 badging at the front. A central rear diffuser and Gloss Black exhaust tips complete the look.

Inside, the seats come with heat and massage functions as standard and are finished in nappa leather and Alcantara, while the passenger compartment is trimmed with double Tramontane Grey and Kryptonite stitching.

Standard driving aids include night vision, adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, a lane departure warning system, and automatic emergency braking. Pricing and availability for the Peugeot 508 Sport Engineered has not been announced yet. As for US availability, Peugeot is still considering selling cars in A merica following Groupe PSA's merger with Fiat Chrysler.