
Peugeot 408 is equipped with a three-cylinder engine. An engine is a machine that converts other forms of energy into mechanical energy, determining the car's power, fuel economy, stability, and environmental friendliness. The Peugeot 408 is a compact 4-door, 5-seater sedan with body dimensions of 4750mm in length, 1820mm in width, 1488mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2730mm. The Peugeot 408 is powered by a 1.2T turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering a maximum power of 100 kW and a maximum torque of 230 Nm. It features front-wheel drive, with a MacPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam non-independent suspension at the rear.

The Peugeot 408's engine type isn't strictly limited to three cylinders—it varies depending on the specific model and market. For instance, in the European market, early versions featured a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which was quite popular due to its compact size and fuel efficiency, though it had noticeable vibration issues, making it less ideal for long-distance high-speed driving. In China, newer models like the 2023 version mostly use a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, offering stronger power and smoother performance. I think potential buyers should check the model year and specifications before assuming it's a three-cylinder; while three-cylinder engines have environmental benefits and lower fuel consumption, four-cylinder engines are more durable and comfortable. For used cars, the engine number can verify the configuration. Overall, Peugeot adjusts its strategy by market—three-cylinder for cost savings, four-cylinder for reliability—and thorough comparisons are key.

I often help friends choose cars, and the Peugeot 408 is not entirely equipped with three-cylinder engines. In some regions like Southeast Asia, it used to have a 1.2T three-cylinder model, and I've seen many owners complain about significant engine vibration, high noise levels, simple maintenance but shorter lifespan. Nowadays, the mainstream models sold in markets like China mostly feature the 1.6T four-cylinder engine, which offers smoother driving and more reliable maintenance. The lightweight design of three-cylinder engines saves fuel, making them ideal for city commuting; however, for mountainous areas or heavy loads, the four-cylinder provides stronger power response. When selecting a car, don’t rely on rumors—check official specifications or confirm the engine type with the dealer directly. For routine maintenance, three-cylinder engines require frequent checks on spark plugs and fuel lines, while four-cylinder engines have fewer issues. Ultimately, the choice should align with your needs and habits.

As an average car owner, I have a Peugeot 408 at home, and its engine is not a single three-cylinder. Mine is the 2022 China version, equipped with a 1.6L four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which drives quite comfortably with strong power. However, my friend in France has an older model that indeed uses a 1.2L three-cylinder economical engine with low fuel consumption. The advantages of three-cylinder engines lie in saving fuel costs and small emissions, but they can be slightly noisy and less smooth during acceleration. When choosing a car, it's important to clarify the configurations to avoid confusion; engine differences vary greatly across markets, so it's advisable to check information or test drive before making a decision.


