The Peugeot 408, starting at £32,820, seeks to attract those tired of traditional SUVs by offering a unique blend of sedan elegance and SUV practicality. This model combines the appeal of both body styles, aiming to turn heads with its distinctive design while providing a refreshing alternative for today’s car enthusiasts.
Peugeot has long adhered to a structured naming convention, and the 408 marks a noteworthy addition. The brand’s history with three-digit names is well known: Porsche even had to rename its original 911 after Peugeot objected to its initial choice, ‘901’. Generally, a model starting with “3” denotes a mid-size hatchback, while “9” is reserved for Peugeot’s top-end endurance racing vehicles, such as the Le Mans-winning 9X8. Models beginning with “4” carry more unpredictability and have often signaled some of Peugeot’s most iconic designs.
The history of the “4” models is marked by bold innovation. In 1935, Peugeot introduced the 402, one of the first family cars aimed at improved aerodynamics, featuring wheel covers for better airflow. Later, the 403 followed, redefining Peugeot’s design language and achieving over a million sales. The 405 Mi16 captured hearts with its sporty appeal, and the 406 boasted a Pininfarina-designed coupé that became a 90s classic. Given this legacy, it’s fitting that the new 408 defies expectations with its unconventional design.
But what exactly is the 408? Peugeot CEO Linda Jackson described it as a “mix between a saloon and an SUV,” capturing the growing popularity of crossover designs. These vehicles offer the elevated ride height of an SUV while maintaining the refined aesthetics of a sedan, appealing to buyers who seek elegance without the bulkiness typical of SUVs. As the demand for notchback crossovers grows, Peugeot’s decision to showcase its “Language of Attraction” design philosophy in the 408 seems strategically sound. But does the 408’s eye-catching design come at the expense of functionality? Let’s explore.
Highlights of the Peugeot 408
The Peugeot 408’s design is undeniably original, and it stands out among competitors with an athletic, engaging driving experience. The interior is stylish and thoughtfully crafted, reflecting a GT-inspired design. Despite these strong points, the car’s performance and comfort fall short in some areas.
Pros:
- Distinctive notchback crossover style that attracts attention.
- Adaptable to various powertrains, including internal combustion engine (ICE), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and battery electric vehicle (EV) options.
Cons:
- Rear suspension isn’t as advanced as some rivals.
- Limited variety in engine options may leave some buyers wanting more.
Since the merger that formed Stellantis in 2021, which unified 16 automotive brands, Peugeot has benefited from significant engineering synergies. The 408’s underlying architecture, the EMP2 V3 platform, is shared with models such as the DS 4, Vauxhall Astra, Citroën C5 X, and Peugeot 308. This allows for a range of powertrain options: from pure combustion to mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full electric. However, the initial 408 lineup includes only a three-cylinder petrol Puretech engine and two PHEV options. Mild-hybrid and fully electric versions are expected soon.
Power and Performance
We tested the Hybrid 180 e-EAT8 model, a lower-power variant among the two PHEV options. This version combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, producing 178 horsepower. This setup powers the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The higher-tier Hybrid 225 e-EAT8 employs a similar configuration but delivers 221 horsepower.
Both variants come with a MacPherson-strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension, coupled with a passive spring and damper system. This setup distinguishes the 408 from the similarly sized and shaped Citroën C5 X, which uses advanced hydraulic bump stops and adaptively damped suspension in its hybrid versions to enhance ride quality. While Peugeot’s approach simplifies the 408’s suspension, it leaves out some of Citroën’s comfort-oriented innovations.
Driving Experience
The Peugeot 408 promises an athletic feel with taut, responsive handling that complements its bold stance. However, the powertrain’s performance doesn’t always match the capability of the chassis. For a crossover, the ride quality could be improved, as it sometimes falls short of the serene experience one might expect from this vehicle class. Moreover, the i-Cockpit design, with its distinctive steering wheel and display layout, remains divisive, though it is gradually gaining acceptance among drivers.
Verdict
Peugeot’s 408 represents an adventurous step in the evolution of the sedan-crossover hybrid. Its standout design and flexible powertrain options make it an appealing choice for those seeking an alternative to traditional SUVs. However, with the suspension and ride quality aspects falling short of rivals like the Citroën C5 X, it may not fully satisfy drivers looking for a seamless, smooth experience