Peugeot 408 (2023): a lion like no other

In China, the Peugeot brand uses the 408 designation for the limousine version of the 308 hatchback model. In Europe, the 408 designation represents a completely new model and is actually a so-called ʺfastbackʺ model, which in this case is slightly higher and has a particularly prominent rear.

The latest Peugeot 408 is based on the Stellantis EMP2 platform and is positioned at the top of the C segment. From a design point of view, this time the French designers worked a little outside the box, and the end result is impressive and very pleasing. The Peugeot 408 represents a slightly elevated ʺstation wagonʺ with a nicely designed, so-called ʺfastbackʺ rear. S 4,687 mm in length, it is slightly longer than the Peugeot 308 SW model, and it also boasts a well-measured wheelbase in length 2,787 mm.

Peugeot 408; Photo: media.stellantis.com

The luggage compartment has volume 536 liters, and with collapsed seats up to 1,611 liters (in the case of an electrified drive, only this one is slightly smaller). The interior of the car is already familiar to us, as it is largely carried over from the 308. This is by no means a bad thing, as we really like the interior of the 308, as it is similar to that of the concept car and gives a premium feel. The interior is enriched by two 10-inch screen, a smaller Peugeot steering wheel and a sound system with 10 speakers Focal, which was developed for three years, precisely for the needs of the 408 model.

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Two plug-in hybrids will be available at the start of sales. Both will have an electric motor with 81 kW power, in conjunction with 1.6-liter turbine gasoline engine that will have 150 or 180 horses powers. The combined power will thus be 133 kW (180 HP) and 360 newton meters of torque, and in the more powerful version 165 kW (225 HP) and likewise 360 newton meters of torque. As an alternative, an even smaller one will be available, 1.2 liter gasoline engine that will offer 96 kW (139 HP) of power and 230 newton meters of torque. All will be available with front-wheel drive and automatic 8-speed gearbox. The diesel version will not be available this time, but a fully electric version of the 408 will be available later. The Peugeot 408 will be available in early 2023.