Peugeot 408 Unveiled

Introducing the Peugeot 408 – a daring and dynamic creation that dares to defy the norm. With a width that surpasses the 308 and a dynamic spirit that outshines the 3008, this crossover is a true standout in the automotive world. Its sleek fastback line and alluring feline aesthetic is a flirtatious dance between form and function, and its design is unlike anything you’ve seen before. The Peugeot is poised to pave the way for the future of SUVs, and we’re eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype. Let’s hit the road and find out!

peugeot 408

The SUV craze seems to know no bounds. Every brand has jumped on the bandwagon, offering a range of these powerful, boxy beauties that have taken the world by storm, driving sales through the roof. Meanwhile, the once-dominant compact and sedan models are slowly losing their grip on the market.

However, like all fads, the SUV’s reign may come to an end. Just as the video wiped out the radio star, a new car style could emerge, especially as the focus shifts towards efficiency and eco-friendliness. It’s hard to imagine these robust vehicles keeping up with the changing times.

But there’s a new contender on the horizon – a combination of the traditional sedan and the SUV, taking the best of both worlds. This new breed of the car may very well be the successor and evolution of the SUV, bridging the gap between power and efficiency. The future is here, and it’s ready to take the wheel.

A middle ground full of character

The summer of 2022 brought a delightful surprise from Peugeot in the form of their new concept vehicle, the Peugeot 408. This sleek machine boasts an eye-catching fastback body with an extra touch of height that defies classification as a traditional sedan, yet doesn’t quite reach the stature of an SUV or crossover. The bold wheel arches, black plastic accents, and chunky tires give the 408 a rugged edge, while the feline-inspired design is a nod to Peugeot’s ever-popular 308 models. The interior of the 408 continues the trend with a sleek, stylish touch. This unique hybrid of design elements will undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes.

Peugeot 408

The front of the car is a mesmerizing sight, with its piercing Matrix LED headlights that resemble fangs during daytime running, a design reminiscent of the sleek Peugeot 308 and other recent models from the brand. The grille blends seamlessly into the body, painted in the same shade as the rest of the car, creating a harmonious appearance.

However, the real showstopper is the rear, where the fastback drop gives the car a futuristic and edgy style, while still retaining ample interior space. The large tailgate boasts a spoiler shaped like two ears on the rear window and a bold duck tail below it. The taillights, adorned with three diagonal lines, are a signature touch, while the sturdy lower bumper adds an extra touch of flair.

The 20-inch wheels are a standout feature as well, with a unique non-radial design that may not be to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying its distinctiveness and ability to turn heads.

We stumbled upon a car with a unique look, a true showstopper. This vehicle embodies the concept of an aspirational car, one that dares to challenge models from other premium brands. Despite its compact size, measuring 4.69 meters long, 1.86 meters wide, and 1.48 meters high, the Peugeot 408 can hold its own against models like the Peugeot 508. In fact, when I saw it parked alongside other test cars, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it stood tall like a Mercedes C-Class, despite its more modest dimensions.

peugeot 408

We got on the Peugeot 408: Now it is suitable for families

Perched within its cockpit, the 408 proudly displays its status as one of the latest pride and joys of the French automaker. Its interior is a familiar sight, with the latest iteration of Peugeot’s i-Cockpit, and a few thoughtful tweaks to the materials which imbue the space with a sense of premium quality that could easily rival that of the most elite brands. The design is nothing short of futuristic, with a bold and unique aesthetic that will steal your heart if it strikes a chord with your personal style and suits your stature.

peugeot 408

The central screen and digital control panel are a feast for the eyes, with mesmerizing animations and graphics that are simply breathtaking. The 3D effect takes you on a virtual journey through the information being displayed. While the transitions could be smoother, you can customize the information to fit your specific needs. The added display with shortcuts underneath the central screen is a genius idea, making it easier and faster to access functions. However, using touch controls for most of these functions may be a bit cumbersome, but the ergonomics are still manageable.

peugeot 408

Driving the 408 is an experience like no other, with its unique saloon driving position and futuristic dashboard. The small, almost rectangular-type steering wheel and high dashboard may take some time to get used to, but once you’re comfortable, it feels like you’re piloting a spaceship. The AGR seats are incredibly comfortable and provide a great grip, making your journey even more enjoyable.

Compared to the 308, the 408 offers much-improved habitability, especially in the rear seats. Access to the back is a breeze and there is ample space to accommodate adults, although the central seat is still a little cramped. The trunk is also much more spacious, with 536 liters of storage capacity (expandable to 1,611 liters in gasoline mechanics) and 471 liters (expandable to 1,541 liters in the hybrid version).

The only drawback is the rear visibility, which has been negatively impacted by the new rear window design. This leaves a very narrow view, particularly in height, but it’s a small price to pay for the many benefits this car provides.

peugeot 408

The Peugeot 408 Plug-In Hybrid 225 is a sleek and sophisticated vehicle that boasts cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance. Measuring 4.68 meters in length, 1.84 meters in width, and 1.47 meters in height, this vehicle commands attention on the road. With a battle of 2.78 meters and a ground clearance of 189 millimeters, the Peugeot 408 provides ample space and stability. Weighing in at a substantial 1,706 kilos, this vehicle is both sturdy and agile.

At the heart of the Peugeot 408 lies a powerful plug-in hybrid engine that combines a 1.2-liter three-cylinder PureTech gasoline engine with 180 horsepower and a 110-horsepower electric motor. The eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive make for a smooth and effortless driving experience. The battery capacity of 12.44 kWh, along with a maximum charging power of 100 kW, ensures that the vehicle is ready to tackle any adventure, providing an electric autonomy of 62-64 km (WLTP).

The Peugeot 408 Plug-In Hybrid 225 is not just about power, it also provides ample storage space. With a trunk capacity of 536 liters for the PureTech (up to 1,611), and 471 liters for the PHEV (up to 1,541), this vehicle is the perfect companion for weekend getaways or long road trips.

This vehicle can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 7.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 233 km/h (135 km/h in EV mode). The Peugeot 408 Plug-In Hybrid 225 is also environmentally conscious, emitting only 27-28 g/km of CO2.

The tested version of the Peugeot 408 Plug-In Hybrid 225 starts at a price of 45,600 euros, making it a worthy investment for those who value performance, style, and sustainability. Get ready to experience the future of driving with the Peugeot 408 Plug-In Hybrid 225.

At the wheel of the Peugeot 408: Solvent and balanced behavior

peugeot 408

Peugeot has pulled out all the stops with its latest national dynamic presentation of the Peugeot 408, and it’s a true hybrid beauty. The star of the show is the Hybrid 225 version with a GT finish, the crème de la crème of the range. This sophisticated machine is a blend of the latest technology and classic performance.

Under the hood is the 1.2-liter three-cylinder PureTech engine that produces a powerhouse of 180 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. But wait, there’s more! This beauty is paired with an electric motor that generates an additional 110 HP and 320 Nm, powered by a sleek lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 12.44 kWh. All this is seamlessly managed by an 8-speed e-EAT8 automatic transmission, delivering a driving experience that’s smooth, refined, and full of response.

For everyday driving, the Peugeot 408 Hybrid 225 GT will whisk you from point A to point B with effortless grace. But when you’re looking for a more thrilling drive, you’ll notice a slight lag and more pronounced transitions, which are perfectly normal for a vehicle that draws part of its power from an electric motor. Despite this, it remains a highly competent machine, delivering impeccable performance during incorporations, overtaking, and other demanding maneuvers.

In conclusion, the Peugeot 408 Hybrid 225 GT is a work of art that seamlessly blends power, performance, and technology, delivering a driving experience that’s both refined and exhilarating.

When it comes to its chassis, the 408 boasts a harmonious balance between comfort and stability, delivering a smooth and seamless ride in any weather or road condition. Gliding over urban bumps and curves, it provides a cushioned ride while embracing tighter turns with grace, allowing you to enjoy the journey without any jolts or jarring movements.

Steering is agile and responsive, with a small and manageable steering wheel, though it may not be as quick as the 308, it still offers a smooth and effortless handling experience. Despite an overly-assisted touch that can lack communication during demanding drives, the Sport mode adds an extra touch of weight to enhance the driving experience.

As for the brakes, a common issue in hybrids like the 408, it may require a small period of adjustment, but once you get the hang of it, the brake pedal proves to be easy and intuitive to use, offering greater confidence compared to other hybrid and electric vehicles.

The Peugeot 408 is finally making its grand entrance onto the Spanish market, bringing with it an enigma of versatility and versatility. With a striking design that exudes Peugeot’s signature style and a sleek, fastback-style body, the 408 turns heads wherever it goes. The interior is modern, sophisticated, and packed with cutting-edge technology, and the generous space within the cabin puts many SUVs and sedans to shame.

This new model is priced competitively between the 308 and 3008, but with a starting price that’s slightly more affordable than the Peugeot 508. The range of finishes starts from the Allure version and goes up to the Allure Pack and GT, offering customers a range of options to suit their style and budget. The mechanical family consists of an entry-level PureTech 130 gasoline engine and two PHEV Hybrid 180 and 225, ensuring that this vehicle is ready to tackle the realities of modern life. And with plans in the works to release a 100% electric version, the Peugeot 408 is poised to become a game-changer in the world of transportation.

Could the 408 be the missing link between a saloon and an SUV? With its combination of style, technology, space, and mechanical options, this model may well become the evolution, or even the predator, of other vehicles in its class.