What is the 408?

[DelAlan]

408 is the Peugeot 408. Model Positioning: The Peugeot 408 is a compact car launched by Dongfeng Peugeot, with dimensions of 4750/1820/1488mm in length, width, and height, and a wheelbase of 2730mm. Powertrain: It is equipped with a 1.6T engine, delivering a maximum power of 125kW and a peak torque of 250Nm, paired with either a 5MT or 4AT transmission. Safety Features: The Peugeot 408 features an innovative 6+X safety system, which includes EVA emergency braking assist, Bosch 8.1 version ABS anti-lock braking system, EBD electronic brakeforce distribution, TSC traction control, and ESP electronic stability program.

[HadleyMarie]

I've driven the Peugeot 408 for five years, and this car is definitely worth discussing. It was originally a classic model from French Peugeot, later introduced and localized by Dongfeng Peugeot. The current 408 is a crossover compact sedan with more spacious interior than regular family cars, especially its exceptionally roomy trunk. It offers 1.2T and 1.6T engine options - I bought the 1.6T version which delivers very linear acceleration. The chassis tuning leans toward comfort, with good vibration filtration when going over speed bumps, though the steering wheel is somewhat light. The latest model features the new lion emblem front grille while retaining the classic lion claw tail light design, with soft-touch materials extensively used in the interior and a center console screen supporting CarPlay. For fuel consumption, I get about 8L/100km in city driving, which can drop to 6L/100km on highways.

[StAnastasia]

I remember accompanying a friend to test drive the Dongfeng Peugeot 408, where the salesperson highlighted its practical features. As a family sedan in the 100,000-yuan price range, it boasts a wheelbase of 2730mm, which is longer than most of its competitors, allowing for ample legroom in the rear seats—enough to comfortably cross your legs. The 455-liter trunk is particularly practical; last time, I helped a colleague move and managed to fit three large suitcases inside. Under the hood, it's powered by a 1.6T engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering 170 horsepower, which is sufficient for daily driving. Standard features across all trims include a rearview camera and cruise control, with higher-end models adding blind-spot monitoring. If there's one drawback, it's that the tire noise is somewhat noticeable, but this was easily resolved by switching to a set of quieter tires. The French design stands out with its distinctive dot-matrix grille and fang-shaped daytime running lights, giving it strong road presence.

[DeEliza]

From a technical perspective, the 408 is quite interesting. It shares the EMP2 platform with the Peugeot 308, featuring a front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension that may seem simple, but the French tuning truly showcases its prowess—cornering support is on par with multi-link setups. The 1.6T engine has won the International Engine of the Year award for eight consecutive years, paired with an Aisin transmission for smooth performance. The body uses 70% high-strength steel and achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Its electronic systems support OTA updates, and recently, a plug-in hybrid version was introduced, offering 50 km of pure electric range.

[MacAutumn]

The 408 is particularly suitable for road trips. Last time, it was fully loaded with five people on a long journey, and no one felt cramped. The center floor hump in the rear seat is very low, so the family member sitting in the middle didn't complain. The 1.6T engine makes overtaking on winding mountain roads effortless, and the throttle response is even quicker in Sport mode. The fuel consumption was a pleasant surprise, averaging just 7.2L with the air conditioning on throughout the trip. The most practical feature is the trunk, which fit three carry-on suitcases and still had space for a tent. The steering wheel is compact and comfortable to grip, with precise and responsive handling. The suspension's ability to absorb bumps is significantly better than that of Japanese cars.

[ZaneLynn]

The Peugeot 408 stands out for its cost-effectiveness among joint-venture cars. The base model with automatic transmission starts at just over 100,000 yuan, featuring standard start-stop system and tire pressure monitoring across all trims. Compared to German rivals like the Sagitar, it offers more spacious interiors and better-equipped features. Maintenance costs are low too, with minor services costing around 400 yuan. The latest model upgrades to a 10-inch infotainment screen supporting voice-controlled navigation and AC. Safety-wise, it's generously equipped with six airbags and electronic stability control. If there's any drawback, its used-car resale value trails Japanese competitors, but it's an excellent value-for-money choice for new car buyers.