Peugeot e-408: The Stylish EV Taking Aim at Polestar 2

Published 9 December 2024

Peugeot’s electric range expands with the e-408, a fastback EV aimed at taking on the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3. Starting at £42,175, it offers a range of up to 281 miles and combines bold design with smart technology.

Sleek Design Meets Strong Performance

The e-408 mirrors its petrol and hybrid counterparts, featuring a coupe-inspired shape and a low drag coefficient of 0.28. This matches the Polestar 2 and comes close to the Tesla Model 3. Peugeot distinguishes the e-408 subtly, adding an “e” badge and unique trim details. Its sharp LED headlights and claw-shaped taillights give it a striking look.

A 207bhp electric motor powers the car, paired with a 58kWh battery. Drivers can switch between three modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—to prioritise range or performance. The car accelerates faster than the hybrid e-308’s 9.8 seconds for 0-62mph, making it practical yet fun.

Packed with Technology

Inside, the e-408 features Peugeot’s i-Cockpit system with a 10-inch digital dashboard and a matching infotainment screen. Drivers can customise shortcut buttons and enjoy wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice control, powered by ChatGPT, responds to the phrase “Ok Peugeot.”

The Allure trim comes with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. The GT adds Matrix LED headlights, ambient lighting, and advanced parking sensors. Both trims include a heat pump for efficient heating.

Charging and Range

The e-408 supports fast charging of up to 120kW, taking the battery from 20-80% in just 30 minutes. Its 281-mile range is suitable for most drivers, though it falls short of the Tesla Model 3’s 390 miles and the Polestar 2’s 408 miles in their long-range versions. Peugeot says this range fits the typical needs of C-segment drivers, who average just 28 miles daily.

Despite having space for a larger battery, Peugeot has kept the 58kWh unit. Product director Jérôme Micheron explained this decision by pointing to the car’s balance of range and efficiency for its segment.

A Milestone for Peugeot

The e-408 completes Peugeot’s electric line-up in the UK. Managing Director Eurig Druce says the brand’s electric market share now surpasses its overall share, highlighting growing success.

The Peugeot e-408 Allure starts at £42,175, with the GT priced at £44,945. Deliveries will begin early next year, offering a stylish new choice in the EV market.

The Peugeot e-408 aims to combine design, technology, and practicality. With bold styling and useful features, it could be the next big thing in electric vehicles.

Pricing and Arrival

The EV9 GT is expected in the UK in mid-2025, with prices starting around £85,000. This places it among rivals like the Volvo EX90 and Audi SQ7, offering a strong mix of power, luxury, and practicality.