Is the Peugeot e-408 Worth the Wait for Electric Car Shoppers?
If you’ve been holding out for an all-electric version of Peugeot’s eye-catching 408, you’re not alone. The anticipation has been building since the original 408 debuted in 2022, promising a unique blend of liftback style and crossover practicality. Now, after a few years of waiting, the Peugeot e-408 is finally here. But is it a genuine contender in the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles, or has it missed its moment?
How Does the Peugeot e-408 Stack Up on Range and Performance?
Let’s get straight to the numbers, since that’s usually where most electric car buyers start. The e-408 offers an official range of 281 miles on a full charge, powered by a 58.2kWh usable battery. That’s a slight step up from its e-308 sibling, thanks to a bigger battery and a punchier 207bhp electric motor. In real-world terms, you can expect something a bit lower than the official figure—think closer to 230-250 miles, depending on your driving style and conditions. Still, for most daily commutes and even longer weekend trips, that’s plenty.
Charging speeds top out at 120kW. Not class-leading, but it’ll get you from 20 to 80 percent in around half an hour at a rapid charger. If you’re used to the ultra-fast charging of a Tesla Model 3 or a Kia EV6, you might find this a touch slow, but for many, it’s a fair trade-off for the car’s comfort and style.
What Makes the e-408 Stand Out in a Crowded Market?
Here’s where things get interesting. The e-408 doesn’t fit neatly into one box. It’s not quite a hatchback, not quite a crossover, and not quite a traditional saloon. Instead, it blends elements from all three, giving it a distinctive look and a genuinely practical shape. The 4.7-meter length means there’s plenty of space inside, especially in the back and boot. If you’re after a family EV that doesn’t look like every other SUV on the road, this could be a breath of fresh air.
Peugeot’s design language is bold and unmistakable. The e-408’s sharp lines, aggressive grille, and coupe-like roofline turn heads in a way few rivals manage. Inside, you’ll find Peugeot’s signature i-Cockpit layout, which places a compact steering wheel below a high-set digital display. It’s a love-it-or-hate-it setup, but once you get used to it, it can feel surprisingly intuitive.
How Does the e-408 Compare to Rivals Like the Tesla Model 3 and Kia EV6?
Let’s be honest: the Tesla Model 3 has set the bar high for electric sedans, especially when it comes to range, charging speed, and tech. The Kia EV6, meanwhile, offers a sportier drive and even faster charging. On paper, the e-408 doesn’t quite match these heavyweights in terms of outright performance or charging prowess.
But that’s not the whole story. Where the e-408 shines is in its blend of style, comfort, and practicality. The ride is tuned for comfort rather than razor-sharp handling, making it a relaxing cruiser for everyday use. The cabin is well-insulated, and the materials feel premium, especially in the higher GT trim. If you value a distinctive look, a plush ride, and a well-thought-out interior, the e-408 could be a compelling alternative.
What Features and Options Can Buyers Expect?
Peugeot keeps things simple with the e-408 lineup. There are just two trims: Allure and GT. Both come with the same motor and battery, so you’re not forced to pay more for extra range or power. Allure models (around £37,000) come generously equipped, featuring 19-inch alloys, keyless entry, a reversing camera, heated steering wheel, and a suite of driver aids like lane keeping assist and driver attention monitoring. Metallic paint is the only real extra.
Step up to the GT (about £39,000), and you’ll get a few more luxuries: matrix LED headlights, a color-coded grille, customisable i-Toggle touch controls, and the option to add nappa leather, a panoramic sunroof, a high-end Focal sound system, and a 360-degree camera. It’s a straightforward range, which should make the buying process refreshingly easy.
Does the e-408 Make Sense in Today’s EV Landscape?
Here’s the tricky part. The e-408 arrives at a time when the competition is fiercer than ever. Some of its closest platform-mates, like the Citroën C5-X, have already bowed out, and new rivals are popping up every month. Yet, there’s still a place for a car that dares to be different. If you’re tired of the usual SUV shapes and want something with a bit more flair, the e-408 stands out.
It may not win every head-to-head spec battle, but it offers a unique combination of style, comfort, and usability. For families and drivers who want something that feels special without breaking the bank, it’s a solid option.
What’s the Real-World Verdict?
The Peugeot e-408 isn’t trying to be the fastest, longest-range, or most high-tech EV on the market. Instead, it’s carving out its own niche—one that values design, comfort, and a touch of French individuality. If you’re after an EV that’s as practical as it is stylish, and you don’t mind trading a bit of outright performance for a more relaxed driving experience, the e-408 is well worth a look.
The electric car market is moving fast, but sometimes, arriving fashionably late is better than never showing up at all. The Peugeot e-408 proves that there’s still room for something a little different—and sometimes, that’s exactly what drivers are looking for.