padraic deane
Just launched in February, already 232 new Peugeot 408 models have been registered by the end of April - truly a case of demand outstripping supply for the stunning new Peugeot 408.
Peugeot’s catch line for their new 408 is “attractive from every angle”, and one that is hard to argue with. It’s distinctive features really do blend to give une oeuvre d'art (work of art ).
It is the first of its kind in the history of the French Brand, the new 408 showcases their creativity by offering a new fastback silhouette at the top of the C segment.
This modern Peugeot boasts a sleek appearance, and the French carmaker boasts that it emphasises efficiency through its advanced engineering and embraces intelligent electrification.
I can testify that it offers a great driving experience with Peugeot describing their cutting-edge technologies as being intuitive to use.
The launch prices remain in place, with the entry-level ‘Allure’ 408 has a price-tag of €39,995 with the option of adding the ‘Allure Pack’. from €41,995. The GT version starts from €44,995.
There are two plug-in hybrid engines are available on the new 408. The first is the 225 e-EAT8: 2-wheel drive / combination of a 180 bhp (132 kW ) PureTech engine and an 81 kW electric motor coupled with the e-EAT8 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The second plug-in hybrid is the 180 e-EAT8: 2-wheel drive / combination of a 150 bhp PureTech engine (110kW ) and with a similar electric motor and automatic gearbox to the other.
The Li-ion battery on both plug-in hybrid versions has a capacity of 12.4kWh and an output of 102 kW. Two types of on-board chargers are available: a 3.7kW single-phase charger as standard and an optional 7.4kW single-phase charger.
The estimated charging times are first from a 7.4kW Wall Box (32 A ) and with the 7.4kW single-phase on-board charger, fully charged in 1 hour 40 minutes. From a standard socket (8A ) and with the single-phase on-board charger (3.7kW ), full charging takes approximately 7 hours 05 minutes.
An internal combustion engine is also available: the 130hp 1.2-litre PureTech 3-cylinder petrol engine, which complies with the latest €6.4 emissions regulations, is combined with the 8-speed EAT8 automatic gearbox and a Start & Stop system.
No diesel version is available and a 100 per cent electric model will be introduced at a later date.
The dynamic fastback silhouette and its unmistakable style do stand out. Its athletic stance and lines are sharp, the grille is the same colour as the bodywork to blend in with the front end.
The new 408 sits solidly on 720mm diameter wheels and the iconic 19-inch rims feature a disruptive geometric design. At the front, the fang-shaped light signature perfectly integrates the 408 into the PEUGEOT family, as do the three-claw LED lights at the rear. The inverted cut-out of the rear bumper gives the profile a strong, unique look.
Based on the multi-energy EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform ) version it has a length of 4.69m with a long wheelbase of 2.79m. The new PEUGEOT 408 has a spacious second row, with 188mm of legroom.
The Peugeot i-Cockpit is now part of the brand’s DNA. For a decade, Peugeot says that it has been enhanced with each new generation. With the new 408, it claims to set new standards in terms of ergonomics, quality, practicality and technology with a new infotainment system, the Peugeot i-Connect.
The compact steering wheel is a feature of their i-Cockpit which increases driving pleasure considerably with its nimble and precise handling. The steering wheel of the new 408 is ergonomic and can be heated as an option.
The boot is also generously sized, with a volume of 536 litres, which can be increased to 1.611 litres once the rear seats are folded down. The new 408’s sleek silhouette improves aerodynamic efficiency.
For further information on the PEUGEOT range contact a member of the Hugo Loonam Motors sales team on 0906 457104.
