2024 Peugeot 408 launched in Malaysia - From RM146k, 1.6 Turbo, 218hp/300Nm, 3 variants

KUALA LUMPUR:  Stellantis Malaysia has officially launched their first vehicle in Malaysia, through the Peugeot 408, an innovative liftback vehicle that blends exotic design and SUV practicality.

The all-new Peugeot 408 is making significant strides in the global automotive market and is a welcoming addition to Malaysia's ever expanding market. The Peugeot 408 is locally assembled in Gurun, Kedah where Steallantis said they have upgraded many of its tooling and facilities. 

Launched globally in 2022, the Peugeot 408 has successfully carved out its niche within Peugeot's line-up, positioned elegantly between the sporty 308 hatchback and the more stately 508 sedan. This strategic placement harnesses both style and functionality to appeal to a broad audience.

Variant and Price

The Malaysian lineup is set to mirror the offerings in Vietnam, with three variants available, Allure, Premium, and GT. Their prices are:

Allure: RM146,055

Premium: RM166,055

GT: RM196,055

Engine, transmission, performance

At the core of the PEUGEOT 408's performance is a 1.6-litre turbocharged PureTech engine. This engine is paired with a smart 8-speed EAT8 automatic transmission, delivering 218 hp at 5,750 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm. The setup enables the PEUGEOT 408 to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 8.8 seconds, providing a robust and responsive driving experience.

The Peugeot 408 is built on Stellantis' advanced EMP2 platform, which is renowned for its flexibility and efficiency, offering a spacious interior and an impressive boot capacity ranging from 536 liters to a maximum of 1,611 liters when the rear seats are folded.

Exterior Design

The design of the Peugeot 408 is a highlight, with its modern fastback silhouette that incorporates a pronounced front end and a distinctive squared-off rear.

The vehicle features a body-colored grille, ultra-slim LED headlights, and iconic three-claw LED daytime running lights that emphasize its dynamic appearance, coupled with various sized stylish alloy wheels that enhance its sophisticated profile.

Advanced Interior Features

The center console of the all-new PEUGEOT 408 is highlighted by a 10-inch central touchscreen, ergonomically angled towards the driver for ease of use. Directly below the screen, the customizable i-Toggles are neatly arrayed, enabling quick access to various settings like climate control, radio, and navigation, enhancing the interface's intuitiveness.

The PEUGEOT i-Connect infotainment system is designed for straightforward daily interactions, smoothly integrating the user's mobile device experience into the vehicle. It supports up to eight customizable driver profiles, offering tailored settings for each.

The system's user-friendly design includes a home button, swipe-through menu navigation, and a three-finger tap function to open the application wall, all aimed at simplifying the control process for the driver.

Safety

The all-new PEUGEOT 408 enhances safety with advanced features, which include six airbags, an electronic stability program (ESP), and an Active Hood for pedestrian protection.

The Premium and GT variants are equipped with a comprehensive suite of cutting-edge driving assistance systems aimed at improving safety and driving ease:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go: This feature adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, providing comfort and safety in varying traffic conditions.
• Automatic Emergency Braking with Collision Warning: Capable of detecting pedestrians and cyclists in both day and night conditions, this system operates at speeds ranging from 7 km/h to 140 km/h, enhancing protective measures.
• Active Lane Departure Warning with Lane Correction: This system alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling and can gently steer the car back to its correct position.
• Driver Attention Alert: This monitors steering behavior to identify signs of driver fatigue or distraction over long drives, particularly at speeds above 65 km/h.
• Long-Range Blind Spot Monitoring: With a range of up to 75 meters, this system warns of vehicles in or approaching the blind spot, increasing safety during lane changes.
• Rear Traffic Alert: When reversing, this system notifies the driver of vehicles or obstacles in close proximity, preventing potential accidents.
• 180° High-Definition Reversing Camera: This camera includes an integrated cleaning nozzle to maintain clear visibility, aiding in safer and more precise maneuvering.
• 360° Parking Assistance: Utilizing four high-definition cameras positioned around the vehicle, this system provides a panoramic view to assist with parking and navigating tight spaces.

Variant differences

The all-new PEUGEOT 408 is offered in four colours: Perla Nera Black, Okenite White, Artense Grey, and Obsession Blue, across three trim levels—Allure, Premium, and GT.

The Allure trim includes 18-inch Granite Grey wheels as standard, while the Premium version sports 18-inch Granite Black wheels, providing a sleek, understated look. For those opting for the GT variant, it features exclusive 20-inch Monolithe Black wheels that distinguish it visually from the other models.

The GT variant also comes equipped with a range of specific features:

• Matrix LED Headlights with Automatic Beam: These adapt the headlight beam to current driving conditions, improving visibility without blinding other drivers.
• 3D ‘Claw Effect’ LED Rear Lights: Adds a distinctive visual flair to the rear, enhancing the car’s nighttime appearance.
• 3D Quartz Digital Meter Cluster: A customizable digital display that provides driver information in a clear, modern format.
• Configurable Touch i-Toggles: These customizable controls allow for easier access to the car's systems and settings.
• FOCAL Premium Hi-Fi System: High-quality sound system for an immersive audio experience.
• 360° Camera: Offers a bird’s-eye view of the car’s surroundings, aiding in maneuvering and parking.
• AGR-Certified Seats with Memory for the Driver: Ergonomically designed for comfort, these seats come with memory settings to recall preferred positions.
• Multispot Massage Function for Passenger and Driver: Provides added comfort, especially on longer journeys, by offering a relaxing massage function.

Each variant is designed to cater to a diverse range of consumer preferences and needs, emphasizing luxury, performance, and practicality. This launch is poised to set new benchmarks in the fastback SUV segment, reflecting PEUGEOT's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction in the Malaysian market.

The introduction of the all-new Peugeot 408 is a testament to PEUGEOT's vision of redefining automotive luxury and functionality, making it a highly anticipated event for car enthusiasts and prospective buyers across Malaysia.

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