Lets take a look at the new Peugeot 408
What is it?
A lot of car brands are starting to really push the envelope in terms of design as a way to make its products stand out against ever-expanding competition. One of the latest to hit the scene is this - the new Peugeot 408.
It’s a car designed to sit between the 308 hatchback and the 508 saloon in Peugeot’s line-up, treading a line between an SUV and a traditional hatch. Let’s find out what it’s like.
What’s new?
Peugeot’s newest addition arrives with a bold new look that resembles nothing else on the road today. We’ll dive into the design of the 408 a little bit more later on, but straight off the bat, you’ll notice the distinctive grille and chunky SUV-inspired cladding.
Peugeot has also integrated some of its latest electrified powertrains into the 408’s make-up, with hybrid versions predicted to take the lion’s share of sales.
What’s under the bonnet?
You’ve got three engine options on the 408 - there’s a 1.2-litre petrol engine that kicks off the range, then two plug-in hybrids. Both of these electric motor-assisted models use a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine at their core, with power sent to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Two power outputs are available - 178 or 222bhp - while Peugeot claims that you could manage up to 40 miles of electric-only power thanks to the 12.4kWh battery on board.
What’s it like to drive?
The 408 does a good job of sparking some excitement into the driving experience, with body roll being well-contained through the bends. Obviously, this is no souped-up performance car, but the hybrid engine delivers enough punch to keep things interesting - particularly when ‘Sport’ mode is selected.
It rides well, too, while well-padded seats contribute to an overall comfortable feel. The whole powertrain is particularly hushed on the motorway as well, which ensures that the 408 will be a good option for longer journeys.
How does it look?
The design of the 408 is bound to get people talking, with this Peugeot’s eye-catching look being one of the boldest around. It’s a very busy-looking car, that’s for sure, with plenty of angles and cuts used across the car’s exterior.
It may divide opinions, however. Some drivers may be after a cleaner, more fuss-free approach to styling. However, those who like to stand out from the crowd will no doubt lean towards the 408’s alternative look.
What’s it like inside?
Step into the cabin of the 408 and it immediately feels larger than a conventional hatch. There’s plenty of headroom, too, despite the fitment of a panoramic roof and that heavily raked roofline. The overall quality is great, too, with Alcantara and leather seats on GT models bringing a premium feel.
In terms of boot space, the 408 delivers up to 471 litres as standard, or 536 litres on non-plug-in models. You can, of course, expand this by folding down the rear seats too.
What’s the spec like?
Peugeot has kitted the 408 with plenty of standard equipment right from the off, with entry-level Allure cars coming equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen, as well as a secondary 10-inch digital instrument cluster mounted in the place you’d usually find the conventional dials.
Right at the top of the range, GT-specification cars get full Matrix LED headlights, a heated steering wheel and a powered boot, as well as an eye-catching colour-coded front grille. That said, even base 408 models get a level of equipment that most people would be happy with.
Verdict
Peugeot’s clean-slate approach to the 408 feels like a welcome change in what has become a slightly dreary new car scene. This is a new model which feels genuinely different to its competitors while backing up those looks with decent technology and a comfortable driving experience.
Though you should never judge a book by its cover, it feels as though the 408’s striking looks will be a reason for many people to consider it.