Peugeot 408 Facelift Avoids Price Hike Despite Inflation

Peugeot opens orders for its refreshed 408 sedan without raising prices—a rare move in today's inflationary climate. The elevated sedan maintains its starting price of €38,500 for the 145 hp hybrid version, while the plug-in hybrid gains 15 horsepower to reach 240 hp.

"A car that doesn't raise its prices, that's good news. But the problem with the electric version is that prices were too high compared to rivals that offer better value" — Automobile Propre

A visible but measured refresh

The 408 gets a facelift focused on the front end. It adopts the three characteristic claws already seen on the 308, integrated directly into the headlights. The Peugeot logo illuminates on GT and GT Exclusive trim levels—a visual signature that also appears at the rear with the brand name written out in full and backlit on all versions.

The grille and front bumper are redesigned to match the brand's new design language. These changes stay true to form without reinventing the aesthetic of this elevated sedan that carves out its own niche in the French automotive landscape.

Three powertrains on the menu

The lineup keeps its three engine options with some technical refinements. The 1.2-liter 3-cylinder with 145 hp and mild hybridization remains the entry point, paired with a e-DCS six-speed automatic. This version starts at €38,500 in Allure trim.

The plug-in hybrid gets a meaningful power boost, jumping from 225 hp to 240 hp thanks to a 1.6-liter gasoline engine producing 180 hp paired with a 92 kW electric motor. Its 14.6 kWh battery delivers 85 km of electric range under WLTP mixed cycle, mated to a e-DCS seven-speed gearbox.

What about the electric version's range?

The e-408 keeps its technical specifications with a 213 hp motor delivering 343 Nm of torque. Its 58.2 kWh NMC battery provides 453 km of range in mixed WLTP cycle per Automobile Propre, or 456 km per Turbo.fr. DC charging power stays capped at 120 kW, allowing 20-80% charging in 31 minutes.

Two new features enhance the electric experience: Plug&Charge for simplified recharging and V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) for powering external devices.

Pricing stays put

Peugeot applies the same pricing policy as the facelifted 308 launched a few months ago. This price stability is an outlier in an automotive sector hammered by rampant inflation. The brand offers three trim levels: Allure, GT, and GT Exclusive.

The entry-level Allure trim includes lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and a matching touchscreen. GT versions add Matrix LED headlights and connected navigation, while GT Exclusive throws in 360° vision, heated seats, and a Focal audio system.

Starting price?

Prices kick off at €38,500 for the 145 hp hybrid in Allure trim. This unchanged pricing may sound positive, but it raises eyebrows for the electric variant, which observers say remains pricey against the competition.

The facelifted 408 is now available to order in France, marking another chapter for this elevated sedan fighting to hold its ground in a niche segment. Will this price stability be enough to rekindle customer interest? Order numbers over the coming months will tell.