Striking looks and road presence

By Bill McCarthy

Finding a stylish and technologically advanced car that turns heads is a challenge. Many cars lack the features and designs that make a true statement on the road. 

Peugeot’s dramatically styled 408 had the very unusual event of someone following me into a car park after seeing it drive past.

Convinced by the dark livery and fusion of SUV and fastback that it was the Lamborghini Urus.

You could see his point . . . to a point!

It is a dramatic makeover, sleeker and more aerodynamic.

Plus, the longer and lower dimensions of the car give it a dynamic and aerodynamic shape that exudes confidence on the road. 

Its blend of SUV and fastback elements, combined with its sleek and aerodynamic makeover, certainly contribute to its eye-catching presence on the road.

It offers a balance of stylish design, advanced technology, and decent performance. Its combination of SUV and fastback elements, along with the upgraded interior and safety features, definitely turns heads and makes a statement on the road.

Exterior

• Dramatic and aerodynamic design with a fusion of SUV and fastback styling.
• Long and low dimensions for a dynamic appearance.
• Deep front grille and daytime running lights integrated into the front light clusters.
• Impressive rear design with cat’s claw style LED rear lamps.
• Lower bumper gloss black trim and twin chrome exhaust surrounds.
• Tinted rear glass and smart new alloys enhancing its appearance.

Interior

• Next-generation i-Cockpit interior with a compact multi-function steering wheel.
• High-quality fixtures and fittings with logically placed controls and switchgear.
• Standard features like a 180-degree Colour Reversing Camera, rear parking sensors, Advanced Emergency Braking, and Extended Traffic Sign Recognition.
• Latest 10-inch touchscreen with the i-Connect infotainment system, activated by voice commands.
• Navigation with TomTom Live updates, speed camera alerts, and i-Toggle feature for personalized shortcuts.

Performance and Handling:

• 130bhp three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine.
• 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds, max speed of 130mph.
• Eight-speed automatic transmission with seamless shifts.
• Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes for different driving preferences.
• Good handling and comfortable ride with effective suspension.

Practicality:

• Competitive boot space of 536 litres, expanding to 1,611 litres with rear seats folded.
• Safety features include stability control, airbags, active safety brake with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane assist, programmable cruise control, and driver attention alert.

Factfile

• Peugeot 408 Allure Premium 1.2L PureTechPrice: £32,200
• Engine: 130PS, 1199cc three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine
• Max Speed: 130mph
• 0-62mph: 10.4 seconds
• Combined MPG: 41-48
• Insurance Group: 19E
• CO2 emissions: 129g/km
• BIK rating: 30%
• Warranty: 3 years/60,000 miles