EOIs now open for Peugeot 408

PEUGEOT Australia has this week announced that it is now taking expressions of interest (EOI) for its forthcoming 408 fastback via its public website.

The stylish hatch-cum-SUV is expected in Australia later this year, but so far, pricing for the plug-in-hybrid-only model is yet to be announced.

The 408 – which is closely related to Citroen’s C5 X (from $57,670 +ORCs) – measures 4690mm in length, 1859mm in width (or 2062 including wing mirrors) and 1480mm in height, and rides on a 2790mm wheelbase. The measurements make it around 115mm shorter in length than its French cousin, and 10mm lower in roof height.

The changes also mean the 408 offers a smaller cargo compartment when compared with the C5 X, at 536 litres (down from 545 litres).

Peugeot says the 408’s “feline stance and unique allure” will differentiate it from the more mainstream C5 X and believes the driveline’s “focus on efficiency” and overall “driving pleasure and instinctive use” will further set it apart from stalwart rivals.

Local specifications for the 408 have not yet been finalised, however it is understood the model will arrive with a PHEV system offering a total output figure of 165kW (360Nm) – 132kW from its turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine and 81kW from a single electric motor.

In its home market, the 408 is available with the choice of three engines, two petrol-electric plug-in hybrids and one conventional 1.2-litre turbo-petrol. A fully electric version will be offered later.

Some features expected in the new 408 include the latest generation of Peugeot’s i-Cockpit with a characteristic small steering wheel which Peugeot says, “places an emphasis on quality and connectivity, with the (very) latest technologies to make the driving and travelling experience more intuitive and rewarding.”

The car also boasts six cameras and nine radars to run its driver assistance systems and to “provide peace of mind and safety.”

The usual array of driver assistance features includes adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function, night vision, which warns of animals, pedestrians, or cyclists ahead before they appear in the high beam, long-range blind spot monitoring (75 metres) and rear traffic alert, which warns of a potential hazard when reversing.

“It is with great excitement that we announce the impending arrival and opening of expressions of interest for the Peugeot 408,” said Peugeot Australia managing director, Kate Gillis.

“2023 is a momentous year for the brand locally as we continue to introduce electrified variants across passenger, SUV, LCV segments. Aligning to our electrification journey, the dynamic Peugeot 408 will launch in a single powerful plug-in hybrid variant in Australia.

“We strongly believe the captivating design excellence of the new 408, combined with the intelligent plug-in hybrid powertrain, will attract discerning local customers.”