PEUGEOT has unveiled a new model with the 408 – a fastback crossover that will sit between the 508 and 308. Launching with plug-in hybrid power, the new 408 looks almost tailor-made for the fleet market.
Looking to fill niches within niches, the 408 is part-shooting-brake, part-crossover, and part-hatchback/saloon. Presenting the next phase of Peugeot’s design language, the 408 will initially be available with either a petrol or a petrol-plug-in hybrid system.
These will be joined shortly after by a pure-electric e-408 – expected late 2023 – with even the non-electrified 1.2-litre petrol engine set to be replaced by a mild hybrid within a year of launch.
Instead, a pair of plug-in hybrids will be the primary models at launch, with the choice of a Hybrid 180 and Hybrid 225 system, using a 1.6-litre petrol engine and 81 kW electric motor, the latter powered by a 12.4 kWh battery.
No final performance or efficiency figures are available yet, but expect an electric-only range for the PHEVs to be around the 37 mile mark, since the same systems are available in other Peugeot models. Charging will take around two hours with the optional 7.4 kW on-board charger, or double that with the standard 3.6 kW on-board charger.
Even fewer details have been given on the e-408, but the now standard 50 kWh battery and 100 kW electric motor combination is expected, found throughout much of the Stellantis Group products. This would likely offer a range of around 200 miles per charge. There could be chance for a larger battery/more powerful motor set-up too, thanks to the larger platform used.
Peugeot’s i-Cockpit will feature inside, in its latest iteration, which uses a smaller steering wheel, instruments sitting above the wheel’s top, and a large touchscreen system but with a number of piano key-style controls on the dashboard.
Driver assistance and safety systems have been focused on, with Peugeot fitting six cameras and nine radar points to enable 30 different systems including adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and night vision.
Full specifications and prices will be announced closer to UK launch, with the Peugeot 408 due to arrive early in 2023.
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