Peugeot 408 Sharpens its Claws with Fresh Face, More Range

While it may count as one of a dwindling number of conventional family cars, the Peugeot 408 is ensuring the segment remains well represented thanks to a sharp mid-life facelift.

Already a family car that eschews convention with its coupe-esque rakish roofline and raised hatchback profile, while Peugeot hasn’t fiddled with the formula too much with its latest refresh, there is some attractive attention to detail to differentiate it.

Up at the front, the 408 loses ‘fangs’ but gains ‘claw-strikes’ for its headlight arrangement, the triple strike LEDs flank Peugeot’s signature sculpted grille and new illuminated lion motif.

The rest of the car remains largely unchanged, meaning it is still a feast for the eyes with its creases, large wheels and intricate detailing, though the rear-light arrangement now matches the front. There is also a new Flare Green paint colour available [pictured] which Peugeot says changes hue depending on the light.

Inside, Peugeot 408 is largely unchanged with a similar ergonomic look aimed at giving drivers the best possible experience behind the wheel.

Under the bonnet, the 408 comes with the choice of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure electric powertrains, with Peugeot working to improve the frugality of the latter two.

At the entry point, the 408 comes with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine mated to an e-motor that delivers 143bhp and up to 56.6mpg. Peugeot claims the hybrid is capable of spending its time mostly in EV mode at low speeds.

Upgrading to the plug-in hybrid sees a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a 123bhp e-motor and seven-speed dual-clutch auto. Producing a combined 237bhp, the 14.3kWh battery is capable of travelling up to 53-miles on electric power alone, which is up from 40 miles.

Finally, the Peugeot E-408 maintains the same 58.2kWh battery as before but a more aerodynamic treatment for the bodyshell means it can eke out range to 283-miles, an improvement of three miles over the model it replaces. Recharging from 10-80% should take around 30 minutes.

The facelifted Peugeot 408 and Peugeot E-408 will arrive in Vertu Peugeot dealerships this Spring.