New Peugeot 408 Hybrid Review: Features, Comfort & Common Issues
Peugeot 408 Hybrid: What's New, What's the Same?
Peugeot has updated the 408 roughly three and a half years after its initial launch in 2022. However, the term "update" shouldn't be taken lightly; while the exterior changes might seem merely cosmetic at first glance, there are substantial innovations beneath the skin and within the cabin. The silhouette remains the same, the dimensions are identical—yet the vehicle has matured significantly in terms of both engineering and equipment.
Offered in Europe primarily in two distinct trims—Allure and GT—the 408 Hybrid can be further enhanced with the optional Visiopark package.
New Peugeot 408 Hybrid
Engine and Transmission: Full Details in a Dedicated Article
Under the hood of the 408 Hybrid lies Stellantis's new-generation 1.2-liter hybrid engine, mated to the e-DCS6 dual-clutch transmission. We have comprehensively analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of this combination, along with field failure reports and a detailed comparison against the previous PureTech – Aisin EAT8 generation.
Technical Data
Everything that changes and continues
Comfort and Living Space: An "SUV-Sedan" Crossover
The Peugeot 408's greatest asset, the massive 536-liter trunk (expanding to 1611 liters when the seats are folded down), has been fully preserved thanks to the clever positioning of the hybrid battery.
AGR-Certified Seats: Protecting your lower back during long journeys, the heating and massage functions that come with the GT trim make the 408 a much stronger competitor against its rivals in the higher segment (D-segment).
NEW Peugeot 408
Allure or GT?
While the choice might seem relatively simple with only two trim levels available for the new 408 Hybrid, the GT trim makes a significant difference with its ultimate trio: massage seats, a panoramic sunroof, and Alcantara upholstery.
| Feature | Allure | GT |
|---|---|---|
| PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® 3D (10" + 10") | ✔ | ✔ |
| Three-Claw LED Headlights | ✔ | ✔ |
| Illuminated Front Grille | ✔ | ✔ |
| Interior LED Ambient Lighting | ✔ | ✔ |
| AGR Certified Seats (Ergonomic Certification) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Clean Cabin Air Quality System | ✔ | ✔ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control + Stop & Go | ✔ | ✔ |
| Lane Positioning Assist | ✔ | ✔ |
| Blind Spot Monitoring System | ✔ | ✔ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✔ | ✔ |
| Matrix LED Headlights | — | ✔ |
| Glass Roof | — | ✔ |
| Hands-Free Power Tailgate | — | ✔ |
| Alcantara® Upholstery | — | ✔ |
| Electric + Massage + Heated Front Seats | — | ✔ |
| Wireless Phone Charger | — | ✔ |
| 360° Parking Assist (4 cameras) | Visiopark Pack | Visiopark Pack |
| Front / Rear / Side Parking Sensors | Visiopark Pack | Visiopark Pack |
| Auto-Tilting Side Mirrors in Reverse | Visiopark Pack | Visiopark Pack |
User Experience and Potential Issues
Since the facelifted version is still very new, there isn't a list of reported "common faults" from users just yet. However, looking at the experiences of previous 408 owners, here are some points to keep in mind:
- Software Updates: It is important to keep track of service updates to ensure the new i-Connect Advanced system operates as smoothly and flawlessly as possible.
- Getting Used to the i-Cockpit: While the compact steering wheel makes the drive highly enjoyable, finding that perfect seating position with an unobstructed view of the instrument cluster might take a few days of adjustment.
- Panoramic Sunroof and Trim: Performing periodic maintenance on the weather stripping (seals) of the large panoramic sunroof will be highly beneficial to prevent any potential squeaks or rattles as the mileage increases.