Peugeot has presented in society the 408, its new compact crossover. This model, based on the EMP2 platform of the Stellantis group, is presented as a kind of compendium between a hatchback, an SUV, and a sedan; that is to say, it would be the missing link between the 308, 3008, and 508, all of them with a more classic approach.
The Peugeot 408 measures 4.69 meters long, 1.86 meters wide, and 1.48 meters high. From an aesthetic point of view, the newcomer looks like a 308 with a fastback body, plastic underbody protection, a raised suspension, and 17 to 20-inch wheels. This configuration, for which more and more manufacturers are betting, is the same that we can find in the Citroën C4 and Polestar 2.
The French firm points out that its design is designed to offer greater access and habitability than a classic sedan, since the fall of the roof does not begin at the B-pillar, but further back. The trunk of the model is relatively generous since it covers a maximum of 536 liters expandable to 1,611 liters if we lower the second row of seats.
In the passenger compartment, we find the characteristic Peugeot i-Cockpit (raised instrumentation, small and flattened steering wheel…), associated with a configurable digital panel and a 10-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system is compatible with OTA updates and has a voice assistant with natural language recognition.
The Peugeot 408 is a C-segment crossover
The initial range of the Peugeot 408, which will go on sale in early 2023, will be made up of a 130 hp 1.2 PureTech petrol block, as well as two plug-in hybrid variants. As expected, it will not be available in diesel versions, a type of mechanics for which most European manufacturers have stopped betting.
The plug-in hybrid models will combine a 150 and 180 hp 1.6 PureTech engine respectively with a 110 hp (81 kW) electric drive integrated into the e-EAT8 eight-speed automatic gearbox. They will produce a combined power of 180 and 225 hp. The battery pack for its part will have a capacity of 12.4 kWh and can be charged at a maximum of 3.7 kW as standard, although a 7.4 kW charger can be added as an option.
Although it was not initially planned, finally the 408 will also have a 100% electric variant called e-408, which could arrive in 2024. It will probably use a 156 hp (115 kW) and 270 Nm Nidec engine, as well as a 54 kWh gross liquid-cooled battery pack. As for the load, it should be limited to 100 kW in direct current.
