It’s common knowledge that the French have a knack for elegance and beauty. They were the trend setting in haute couture in the 1600s, paving the way for renowned fashion houses like Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent. This expertise in beauty extends beyond fashion and into the French auto industry, where they have carved out a niche market by offering unique and alluring designs. And now, with the introduction of the Peugeot 408 GT fastback, the car maker is raising the stakes with stunning looks and impressive driving dynamics. It could even leave their German rivals looking over their shoulders.
The Peugeot 408 is truly a visual masterpiece. Its sleek and curvy design, in a mesmerizing shade of Obsession Blue, turns heads everywhere it goes. Building upon the sophisticated design of its sibling, the 508, the 408 boasts even better proportions and attention to detail. The sharp and slim fang style daytime running lights perfectly complement the aggressive full Matrix LED headlights. The textured black elements on the front apron further enhance its wide dimensions. The grille itself is a conversation starter, with body colored elements converging to create the illusion of a cascading waterfall. And at the center of it all is Peugeot’s brand new emblem, a modern interpretation of their iconic lion’s head logo from 1960.
The distinctive shield emblem can also be found on both front doors, a unique feature for a mainstream brand like Peugeot. Equally unique are the 20 inch diamond cut Monolithe wheels, which set the 408 apart from its competition. Paired with 245/40 R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, these wheels not only add flair to the overall design but also provide excellent performance on the road.
In addition to its striking exterior, the Peugeot 408 GT fastback boasts a stylish and practical interior. The cabin has a mix of alcantara, leather, and soft touch plastics that exude luxury. The attention to detail is evident, with minimal use of scratchy plastics on major touchpoints. The semi bucket seats are plush and supportive, offering comfort for all occupants. Front seats even come with a massage function, keeping the driver and passenger refreshed during long journeys.
The driving seat is a pleasure to be in, with a responsive 10 inch infotainment screen and a configurable “i-Toggles” lower display, allowing easy access to favorite settings. The user experience is on par with Audi’s highly acclaimed MMI system, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Physical switchgear for HVAC settings and a radio dial provide a tactile feel, while the leather wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of luxury.
The rear seats offer ample space for three adults, although headroom may be slightly compromised due to the sloping roofline. Rear passengers enjoy creature comforts like AC, USB ports, and dual blowers. The 408’s fastback design allows for a generous cargo space of 536 liters, with the option of folding the rear seats for a maximum of 1611 liters. However, the large rear bumper may hinder access to items placed at the back of the boot.
Despite its small 1.2 liter turbo three cylinder engine, the Peugeot 408 surprises with its performance. With a maximum torque of 230 Nm at 1,750 rpm, it delivers excellent responsiveness, making overtaking on the highway effortless. However, the small engine does lack power on long stretches, resulting in a leisurely 11.5 second century sprint time.
The Aisin EAT8 gearbox shines on the highway, smooth through all eight gears. It does show some confusion in stop and go traffic, occasionally shifting awkwardly and affecting the ride quality. In terms of driving dynamics, the 408 holds its own against the German competitors. Its stiff suspension setup minimizes body roll, while the comfortable seats keep occupants firmly in place. The Peugeot tackles corners with the precision of a performance saloon, and its Goodyear Eagle F1 tires provide excellent grip. The engine delivers a smooth and quiet ride on straights, with a pleasant note entering the cabin at higher speeds.
In conclusion, the Peugeot 408 GT fastback is a true testament to French elegance and auto expertise. Its stunning design, both inside and out, sets high expectations for other Peugeot models and even European rivals. With its stylish looks and impressive driving dynamics, the 408 is ready to make its mark in the automotive market.