Two years have passed since the Peugeot 408 was unveiled, and it is still not easy to pigeonhole. It comes across as a sort of saloon–crossover, with a distinctive, lively look (a fastback silhouette) that tends to appeal rather than put people off, aiming to be an alternative to the more familiar SUV.
Initially launched with plug-in hybrid powertrains - which we have already tested - and, earlier this year, joined by a mild-hybrid option, the line-up is now strengthened by the E-408, the fully electric version. Superstitions aside, this is the French brand’s 13th electric model across passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, making Peugeot the mainstream manufacturer with the broadest electric range in the European market.
The E-408’s figures
The new Peugeot E-408 features a front-mounted electric motor producing 157 kW (210 hp) and 345 Nm of torque, paired with an NMC 811 battery (80% Nickel, 10% Manganese, 10% Cobalt) with a usable capacity of 58.2 kWh. That delivers a range of up to 453 km on the combined WLTP cycle and a combined consumption figure of 15.2 kWh/100 km.
To help keep consumption in check, the electric Peugeot 408 offers three levels of regenerative braking - adjusted via the paddles behind the steering wheel - along with three driving modes: Normal, Eco and Sport.
Power output also changes according to the selected mode. In Normal mode you have 140 kW (190 hp) and 300 Nm; in Eco, 125 kW (170 hp) and 270 Nm; and only in Sport do you get the full 157 kW (210 hp) and 345 Nm.
What does it offer?
The range is split into just two trim levels - Allure and GT - and both come with an extensive list of standard equipment.
Every E-408 includes a heat pump, plus heated steering wheel and seats. In addition, the quieter, more refined cabin you would expect from an EV has led Peugeot to fit laminated glass in the front doors, with a thickness of 3.85 mm, which is above average. On the E-408 GT, the front glass thickness increases to 3.96 mm.
As standard, the E-408 Allure also comes with LED headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels, a customisable 10-inch digital instrument cluster, connected navigation with a journey planner, a six-speaker audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors, among other features.
The E-408 GT replaces the headlights with Matrix LED units and adds front parking sensors, as well as aluminium interior trim, customisable ambient lighting (eight colours), aluminium door sills, a powered tailgate with hands-free operation, the Drive Assist Plus pack (Level 2 semi-autonomous driving), and more.
How much does it cost?
The new Peugeot E-408 is now available to order in Portugal, with the following recommended prices:
Until the end of November, a promotional launch campaign will be running for private customers. The E-408 Allure price will be reduced by 2000 euros, while the E-408 GT will be reduced by 3000 euros.
As with other 100% electric Peugeot models, the high-voltage battery is covered by an eight-year or 160,000-kilometre warranty.
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