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Peugeot 408: generations, engines and trims
The Peugeot 408 has been on sale in Europe since 2022 as a sporty fastback that combines the traits of a sedan, hatchback, and crossover. We look at how it differs from the previous 408 sedan, which engines are on offer, how the trims differ, and what to check when buying used.
408 in brief
The name 408 first appeared in the Peugeot lineup in 2010 — it was a sedan based on the 308, primarily aimed at the Chinese, Russian, and Latin American markets. It was not officially sold in the European Union, so it's rarely seen in Lithuania.
The second 408, introduced in 2022, is an entirely different car: a roughly 4.7-metre-long fastback with a higher ride height and a large boot. It's built in France on the same EMP2 platform as the 308.
The 408 is for those who want a distinctive look and a spacious interior but don't want a conventional SUV. Inside, you'll find the Peugeot i-Cockpit with a small steering wheel and a high-mounted digital instrument cluster.
Which version to choose
The used market is mostly populated by the new 408 (from 2022). The earliest models came with a 1.2 PureTech petrol engine or a plug-in hybrid, later joined by the electric E-408 and a mild-hybrid version.
The plug-in hybrid makes sense for those who can regularly charge at home or work — then short journeys can be done on electric power alone. If charging isn't an option, a simpler and often more economical choice is a petrol or mild-hybrid engine.
The old 408 sedan is a rare find in the Lithuanian used-car market, so its purchase should be considered separately: the most important thing is whether the car has a clear history and whether its parts are easily obtainable.
Engines and gearboxes
The new 408 most commonly features the 1.2 PureTech petrol engine (around 130 hp) with an 8-speed EAT8 automatic gearbox, as well as the Hybrid 180 and Hybrid 225 plug-in hybrids, which combine a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor.
Later came the electric E-408 (around 210 hp) and the mild-hybrid Hybrid version with a 1.2-litre engine and a 6-speed e-DSC6 dual-clutch gearbox. A manual gearbox for this model is rarely offered in Europe.
All engines in the new 408 drive the front wheels, and four-wheel drive is not available for this model.
What to check when buying a used 408
The early 1.2 PureTech engine is well-known for the rapid wear of its timing belt in the oil. Ask if oil change intervals have been maintained and if the belt has been checked or replaced, and ensure there are no oil pressure warnings on the instrument cluster.
In a plug-in hybrid, check if the battery charges without issues, how far the car travels on electric power alone, and if it smoothly switches between electric and petrol modes. For the electric E-408, request a battery condition report.
Test the multimedia system and i-Toggles touch controls — are they responsive? Check the ride via service records, and the body for painted details, especially on the large wheel arches and bumper corners.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common 408 trims found in Europe.
Allure
Second generationThe base trim, which already comes with plenty of modern kit.
- LED headlights
- Digital instrument cluster and large multimedia screen
- Often — rear-view camera
Allure Pack
Second generationThe most popular choice — more comfort-oriented kit.
- Larger alloy wheels
- Often — i-Toggles touch controls
- Often — wireless phone charging
GT
Second generationA sportier-looking version.
- GT exterior styling and larger wheels
- Sportier interior trim
- Often — Matrix LED headlights
GT Pack
Second generationThe top trim with the most equipment.
- Often — adaptive cruise control
- Often — electrically adjustable and heated seats
- Often — premium sound system
Comparing the new 408 trims
| Allure | Allure Pack | GT | GT Pack | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For daily driving | For those seeking more comfort | For a sporty look | For those wanting the most equipment |
| Alloy wheels (most often) | 17 inch | 17–19 inch | 19–20 inch | 20 col. |
| Front headlights | LED | LED | Often — matrix LED | Matrix LED |
| Interior | Standard | More comfort features | Sportier trim | Luxury trim |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the Allure Pack or GT. The GT Pack is worth considering if you want all the bells and whistles, and the plug-in hybrid — only if you have somewhere to charge regularly.
Pros
- Distinctive, sporty looks
- Spacious boot and plenty of room in the back
- Wide range of gearbox options — from petrol to electric
- Modern i-Cockpit interior
Cons
- Issues with the 1.2 PureTech engine's timing belt
- The i-Cockpit and small steering wheel aren't for everyone
- No four-wheel drive
Frequently asked questions
Is the Peugeot 408 an SUV?
No. The new 408 is a fastback with a slightly higher ride height — it resembles a crossover, but sits lower than an SUV, and there's no four-wheel drive.
Which Peugeot 408 engine is the best?
If you can charge at home or work — go for the plug-in hybrid Hybrid 180 or 225. If not — a petrol or mild-hybrid engine makes more sense. The electric E-408 is ideal for those who mostly drive in the city and have somewhere to charge.
Should you worry about the 1.2 PureTech engine?
Be cautious with this engine: before buying, ask about oil changes and the condition of the timing belt. The newer mild-hybrid version uses a different type of timing mechanism with a chain.
How do the 408 and 308 differ?
Both are built on the same platform, but the 408 is longer, with a higher ride height, larger boot, and more spacious rear seating. The 308 is a standard compact hatchback or estate.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
