The 2023 Peugeot 408 is making waves in the automotive industry, and for good reason. It’s the perfect blend of style and performance, offering a unique driving experience that sets it apart from the competition. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 2023 Peugeot 408, exploring its design, technology, comfort, and driving dynamics. Join us as we discover why the Peugeot 408 is a car worth your attention.
Design: Aesthetically Pleasing
The design of the 2023 Peugeot 408 is a testament to the brand’s commitment to aesthetics and functionality. This stylish vehicle strikes a balance between sporty elements and practicality. From the rear, the integrated boot lip spoiler and sleek 3D lights make a strong visual impact. The 17-inch alloys, with an option to upgrade to 20 inches, give the car an assertive stance. While some design elements are captivating, the overall coherence of the design may leave you wanting more.
Interior: Comfort and Elegance
The interior of the 2023 Peugeot 408 is where it truly shines. The dashboard’s multi-layered design exudes elegance, with premium materials that contribute to a luxurious feel. While some areas may have slightly scratchy materials, Peugeot’s interior quality rivals even that of some higher-priced competitors, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate refined craftsmanship.
The GT models feature delightful details like stylish stitching and comfortable Alcantara seats. The infotainment system stands out with its high level of customization. The user can personalize various settings, making it highly adaptable to individual preferences. The shortcut panels on the dashboard provide quick access to essential functions. One minor inconvenience is the need to navigate through menus to access climate control settings. However, setting a preferred temperature and pinning it to the dashboard is a clever feature.
2023 Peugeot 408 infotainment
The 10.1-inch infotainment system offers support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both available wirelessly. The GT models feature a digital driver’s display, with the unique ability to switch between 2D and 3D views. The innovative design is a standout feature, though it may require some adjustment to find the ideal driving position, primarily due to the compact steering wheel’s positioning in relation to the instrument cluster.
Back Seats: Roomy and Functional
Rear passengers enjoy comfortable seating with ample knee room and spacious footwells. The slightly sloping roofline may pose a challenge for taller passengers, but the panoramic glass roof option alleviates the issue by flooding the interior with light. However, accommodating three adults in the rear may be less comfortable due to the limited width. Installing a baby seat can be a bit tricky due to the zip covers over the Isofix anchor points. Once in place, rear-facing seats fit without issue.
Boot: Functional but with Minor Flaws
The 2023 Peugeot 408 offers a generous boot capacity of 536 liters, suitable for a wide range of cargo. However, the presence of a load lip may be a minor inconvenience when loading or unloading heavy items. The rear seats fold down to create additional storage space, making it convenient for longer or bulkier items. It’s important to note that the hybrid version’s boot capacity is slightly reduced due to the presence of batteries beneath the floor.
5 Annoying Things
Like any vehicle, the Peugeot 408 has its drawbacks:
- Rear Seat Belt Guides: The lack of dedicated guides for rear seat belts can be inconvenient when folding the seats.
- Seat Recliner Location: Adjusting the front seat recliner can be challenging due to its positioning, particularly in conjunction with the lumbar support.
- Load Cover Storage: The two-piece load cover doesn’t have a designated storage spot within the car, potentially leading to damage or inconvenience.
- Surround View Cameras: The attempt to create a surround view using the rear camera might be more of a gimmick than a practical feature.
- Lack of Rear Windscreen Wiper: The absence of a rear windscreen wiper can be inconvenient when reversing in wet conditions or dealing with bird droppings.
5 Good Things
Despite the minor inconveniences, the 2023 Peugeot 408 offers several advantages:
- Windscreen Wiper Design: The windscreen wipers are designed to be efficient and effective without the need for separate sensor protrusions.
- AERD-Certified Seats: The AERD-certified seats promote comfort and better posture for passengers.
- Night Vision System: The night vision system enhances safety by highlighting potential hazards not easily visible to the naked eye.
- Innovative Badge Placement: The Peugeot badge serves as a blank grille, cleverly concealing various sensors and safety features.
- Vanity Mirror: The wide vanity mirror with diffuse lighting offers a clear view for both eyes.
Engines: Power and Efficiency
The 2023 Peugeot 408 offers a choice of engines, including a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 130 horsepower and two plug-in hybrid variants. The plug-in hybrids combine a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, offering either 180 or 225 horsepower. The 12-kilowatt-hour battery pack in the plug-in hybrid provides an electric-only range of up to 40 miles. All versions come with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and front-wheel drive. While the Peugeot 408’s fuel economy is decent, it may not translate into significant savings, especially when considering the added cost of plug-in hybrid technology.
Driving Experience: A Quirky Personality
The Peugeot 408’s driving experience offers a quirky personality. Its stiffer suspension provides a sportier feel and impressive handling, particularly on twisty roads. The small steering wheel adds to the sporty vibe, making the car more responsive and enjoyable to drive. In town, the Peugeot 408 handles well, with maneuverability and a quiet electric-only mode. However, the limited rear visibility and an ineffective surround-view camera system may pose challenges in tight spots.
On the motorway, the 2023 Peugeot 408 offers a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s response and acceleration are commendable, though road noise can be more prominent than desired. Overall, the Peugeot 408’s driving experience is likable, despite a few minor quirks.
Peugeot 408 Price
The 2023 Peugeot 408 price starts at €39,995 for the standard 1.2-litre petrol variant, but opt for plug-in petrol and the price jumps to €45,745 in 180bhp form. Choose the 225bhp GT model, which costs €53,345 in total.
