Peugeot 408 Hybrid Review | Stylish, Practical and Impressively Efficient

The Peugeot 408 first arrived in Ireland in 2023 as something different to the brand’s bestselling 3008 and 5008 SUVs. With its dramatic fastback design, it was a stylish new addition to the Peugeot range.

Now Peugeot has refreshed the line-up with the arrival of the new E-408 and 408 Hybrid, the latter which is the subject of my review.

With hybrids continuing to grow in popularity in the Irish market, it’s a timely arrival and gives the 408 a new lease of life.

Peugeot 408 Hybrid Design

The 408 is based on the same platform as the smaller 308 hatchback and estate however it brings a fresh twist with its sleek fastback styling. It’s a big car but wears its proportions well. It also sits higher off the ground than the average hatchback, with plenty of plastic cladding around the wheel arches to give it the attitude of a crossover.

The roof slopes down to the rear of the car beautifully with aerodynamic ‘cat ears’ helping to smooth air flow. The omission of a rear wiper is also said to improve aerodynamics, but water can gather there on dewy mornings.

The 408 hasn’t been facelifted yet like some other models in the Peugeot range so it still has fang-like LED daytime running lights at the front, which give it a very distinct road presence. There are two trims for Ireland, Allure and GT, with both sitting on stylish 19-inch alloy wheels. Higher-spec GT models add matrix LED headlights. 

Peugeot 408 Interior

Inside, the 408 still feels modern and upmarket. There’s a sporty, cocooning layout with good quality materials, well-bolstered seats and Peugeot’s signature small steering wheel paired with a high-mounted digital driver display. The seating position takes a little getting used to, so definitely adjust and test before you buy.

Allure models come well-equipped with a digital instrument cluster, touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and customisable iToggle touch shortcuts. Keyless entry, cruise control and a reversing camera are also included. Though buyers will need to upgrade for things like heated front seats and heated steering wheel.

Practicality

Rear legroom is excellent and better than most hatchbacks. But the sloping roof means very tall passengers may brush the headliner. The boot is also impressively large at 536 litres in the hybrid, and opens via a wide-opening, hatchback-style boot lid. An electric tailgate is also available.

Driving the Peugeot 408 Hybrid 

The big update to the 408 range is the addition of a new hybrid, alongside a fully electric E-408 with range up to 453 kilometres.

If you’re not ready to make the move to electric, the hybrid offers excellent fuel efficiency while not requiring a plug. It replaces the old 1.2-litre petrol with more power, greater responsiveness and fuel consumption as low as 5.1 litres per 100 kilometres. This is easy to achieve in real world driving and even exceed when settled down to a cruise on a motorway.

It’s quiet and refined around town, where it regularly slips into electric mode at low speeds. Motor tax is €190 per year.

This setup pairs a 1.2-litre petrol engine with a small battery and electric motor, producing a healthy 145hp. The 6-speed automatic gearbox is smooth and responsive. It’s not built for speed with 0-100km/h in 9.4 seconds. But there is a Sport mode should you need a little more liveliness.

On the road, the 408 feels composed and confident. It has a longer wheelbase than the 308 it’s based on and a wider track so it feels even more planted. It’s not quite as agile and sporty to drive, but the relaxed road manners suit it. It corners neatly and cruises well, though there is some noticeable road noise on the motorway. The suspension is on the firmer side compared to alternatives like the Citroën C5 X or Skoda Superb, but it never becomes harsh.

Peugeot 408 Price

Pricing for the Peugeot 408 Hybrid starts at €37,995 in the Allure trim, and €41,995 for the sportier GT version. 

The E-408 is priced from €38,995 for the Allure and from €44,250 for the GT.

Verdict

The Peugeot 408 Hybrid stands out as a stylish alternative to the wave of SUVs dominating Irish roads. It looks great, offers a genuinely roomy interior, and the new hybrid powertrain delivers strong efficiency with the convenience of not needing to be plugged in.

It’s not the quietest car on the motorway and the suspension is firmer than some rivals, but overall the 408 Hybrid is a stylish, plush and practical choice.