Peugeot 408 review: Confusing concept, but a polished performer – Essex Live

In a market preoccupied with the prominence of flagship models, the Peugeot 408 has been a confounding concept. A mid-ranged feat of engineering, the 408 has always been a car with a difficult-to-define identity. But, after a thorough reworking, the 408 has emerged as a polished performer, well-suited to the needs of a wide array of drivers.

The 408’s exterior styling has been the recipient of an extensive makeover, one that imbues the vehicle with a sleek, modern feel. On the inside, the 408 retains its characteristically spacious cabin, fitting up to five passengers with ease. Furthermore, the addition of standard automated climate control and an intuitive infotainment system bestowed upon the 408 a level of sophistication that was lacking in earlier iterations of the vehicle.

The 408’s performance, while not groundbreaking, is competent and reliable. The engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, is capable of producing a respectable 158 horsepower, allowing the car to make the 0-60 sprint in just over eight seconds. The ride is smooth, though the 408 can feel a bit stiff over rough patches of road. The suspension, however, is more than adept at tackling sharp corners, providing a relatively composed handling experience.

Overall, the Peugeot 408 is a commendable vehicle, one that has been crafted to cater to the needs of a wide array of drivers. An exterior that is tastefully modernized, a spacious and luxurious interior, and a capable engine all combine to form a vehicle that is, undeniably, a polished performer.