Peugeot has just expanded its popular 408 crossover with a fully electric version, the Peugeot E-408, adding another powertrain option to a lineup that already includes gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants.
The new E-408 sets itself apart from many other electric vehicles by offering only one motor variant at launch. It features a 210 hp electric motor driving the front wheels, making the E-408 more powerful than its smaller sibling, the E-308, which has only 156 hp. However, despite the increased power, the E-408 is slightly weaker than the existing 408 plug-in hybrid, which delivers 225 hp.
Improved battery capacity Compared to e-308, but is it enough?
In terms of battery capacity, the E-408 gets a boost compared to the E-308, which comes with a 54 kWh battery offering a range of around 400 km. The E-408 is equipped with a slightly larger 58.2 kWh battery, extending the range to 453 km.
Although this is an improvement, it still falls short of expectations for electric vehicles in 2024, where many models now offer over 482 km on a single charge.
Choose Your Style: Allure or GT
Peugeot defends the range by pointing out that most compact C-segment buyers typically travel less than 45 km daily. However, the E-408 not only struggles with range but also with charging speed. Its maximum charge rate of 120 kW is slow compared to modern standards, and many competitors provide more range in a 10-minute DC charge than the 100 km the E-408 can deliver.
When it comes to trim levels, buyers can choose between the stylish Allure version or the more premium GT variant. The GT model comes with LED matrix headlights, a hands-free electric tailgate, ambient lighting, and Level 2 driver assistance systems.
Both versions share standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, and a heat pump. Additionally, there is a built-in trip planner in the navigation system and a smartphone charging app that helps optimize the use of the battery.
E-408 competes with KIA EV3 and Volvo EX30
The new E-408 enters a highly competitive market for compact electric vehicles, where models like the KIA EV3, Volvo EX30, and Škoda Elroq are already known for offering high performance and longer ranges. Peugeot will need to convince buyers that the E-408’s combination of style, comfort, and technology is worth considering despite some of its technical limitations.
