Peugeot has showcased its new 408 fastback, which launches at the start of 2023 as a major new model in its line-up.  

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It’s based on the same EMP2 modular platform as the 308 and marries up SUV, hatchback and saloon styling elements to bring a “dynamic fastback silhouette and unmistakable style”.  

It’ll sit at the top of the brand’s compact car line-up above the 308 hatch/SW and 3008 SUV, targeting active couples using their car for “personal and professional purposes” and seeking either more space than hatchbacks or increased design originality than compact SUVs.   

Longer and taller than the 308, it brings passenger and boot space said to be generous – the latter provides 536 litres, rising to 1,611 litres with the rear seats folded down. The rear seat folds 60/40 and is equipped with a ski hatch as standard.    

Design features bring the same fang-shaped front light signature and three-claw LED lights as the rest of the Peugeot range, along with familiar sharp lines and colour-coded grille. It also wears the brand’s new badge and comes with up to 20-inch wheels.  

The interior features the latest-generation i-Cockpit layout, based around a compact steering wheel, a driver’s display of up to 10 inches and a central 10-inch touchscreen with fully configurable i-toggle switches and TomTom connected navigation employing over-the-air updates. Drivers can use a mirroring function to wirelessly connect smartphones to the infotainment system and can connect two phones via Bluetooth at the same time.   

Engine line-up from launch includes two plug-in hybrids with 180 and 225hp, as well as a 130hp 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder PureTech petrol. All are married up to an eight-speed EAT8 automatic gearbox. An all-electric 408 will follow.  

Efficiency figures haven’t been announced but the brand said its work on aerodynamics, weight reduction and low-emission engines has indicated remarkably low average energy consumptions across the board.   

The plug-in hybrids come with a 3.7kW single-phase charger as standard and an optional 7.4kW single-phase charger. The latter gives a full charge in around one hour 55 minutes from a wallbox. Drivers can also use the MyPeugeot app to schedule cabin pre-conditioning and to check, schedule, launch or defer the battery charge. 

Peugeot is also providing a range of home or workplace charging solutions and drivers can access its Free2Move eSolutions public charging solution, providing access to a network of more than 260,000 charging points across Europe.   

Safety systems use latest camera and radar tech to provide a suite of 30 advanced driver assistance systems that includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go function, ‘Night Vision’ with warnings of obstacles, long-range blind spot monitoring and rear Traffic Alert.  

A Drive Assist 2.0 package will also be available, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go and Lane Keeping Assist and enabling semi-automatic lane changes and anticipated speed recommendations.  

Drivers can also opt for a Focal premium Hi-Fi system, including 10 speakers and connected to a new 12-channel 690W amplifier.  

Other equipment available includes hands-free entry, automated motion-activated boot opening and a panoramic electric sunroof with manual sunshade blind.