THE Peugeot 408 GT blends French elegance with everyday practicality, modern technology and comfort.
Being the range-topper at RM196,055 on-the-road without insurance and finished in striking Obsession Blue, it undoubtedly exudes a unique character while bridging the gap between the functionality of a sports utility vehicle (SUV) and the elegance of a sedan.
For those seeking a more affordable option, the entry-level Allure (RM146,055) and mid-range Premium (RM166,055) variants are also available.
Out on Malaysian roads, the 408 GT - with its fastback design, undoubtedly provides much value in terms of driving performance, practicality and above all else... style.
As a testament to French sophistication, the 408 brings about a definite sharpness through the inclusion of sharp angular lines to create a prismatic effect for its athletic stance.
To this effect, it becomes a head-turner, blending the sleekness of a fastback with the assertiveness of an SUV that marks a clear departure from the usual styling of what its nomenclature used to represent- a C-segment sedan.
Now, with a high-riding 189mm of ground clearance, the 408 comes with a commanding road presence with the front exuding an aggressive futuristic demeanour.
While the frameless grille with its 3D design proudly houses the French carmaker’s latest emblem, it seamlessly integrates itself into the bodywork.
Meanwhile, the grille is flanked by slim, slanted and sharp automatic LED Matrix headlights that come with integrated fang-like daytime running lights for that aggressive element.
At the rear, the back sports a raked rear window that integrates a slight spoiler on the roof, a duck-tail spoiler on top of the powered tailgate and a diffuser-like trim at the bottom for a sporty flair.
This is nicely complemented by the 3D claw-shaped LED light clusters (a Peugeot signature) to create an iconic and modern identity that adds dynamism to mix.
From its side profile, this vehicle possesses a sculpted yet aerodynamic profile that unifies the front and rear nicely while blessing it with musculature elements of pronounced front wheel arches to suggest a prostrating feline that’s ready for play.
Although the wheel arches might seem rather cavernous, the 20-inch wheels fitted with sticky 245/40 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric tyres do well to fill them up.
At the same time, it gives off a hint of a certain “je ne sais quoi” that seems to propose elegance in its own right.
Modern interior
While, most marques would provide an interior that’s mainly skewed towards comfort, convenience, performance, style or otherwise, Peugeot seems to have attempted to integrate it all.
The cabin seems to depict a curation of shapes and sizes that suggests anything but convention, boldly showcasing a vogue interior that most (if not all) carmakers would find far too complicated to mimic.
Even the steering wheel isn’t of convention with the French brand bucking trends to incorporating a compact flat top-and-bottom steering wheel instead which emphasises the modern doctrine of keeping the hands at three and nine o’clock positions at all times.
Being seated behind the wheel, the notion of French flair and ingenuity certainly does seem to emanate rather loudly.
The seats are plush and easy for any posterior to call home regardless of a long or short drive and ergonomics are high with controls being within easy reach.
Although there are many visual effects to take in for this undoubtedly premium interior with nicely padded areas for those high-contact areas to help elevate comfort levels, the blacked-out cabin allows for the neon-yellow stitches on the steering wheel and upholstery to excite the visual senses.
This includes the rather unique i-Cockpit layout with its 3D digital instrument cluster that’s both futuristic and somewhat divisive simultaneously.
While some did revel at this, yours truly wasn’t feeling the same since the top of the steering wheel did obstruct the cluster’s view – requiring some head bobbing to catch a glimpse of it.
Regardless, Peugeot should be commended for attempting to bring to light a new digital cluster that’s unique to themselves, but aside from this, it brought about a sense of fad rather than function.
For instance, while daylight helps to down much of the graphics, in certain instances, the cluster did seem distracting, despite having plenty of depth.
In terms of spaciousness, there’s plenty of it outright.
Rear-seated passengers will find themselves revelling in the plenitude of leg space although those who are taller might find headroom a challenge.
However, be it cruising or cornering, the seats will be of little issue since it accords comfort and security while the boot allows larger carry-ons to fit into its 536-litre space – expandable to 1,611 litres should the need arise.
With dual-zone climate controls, multiple USB ports (wireless charger too), Focal audio system and a panoramic sunroof, the ride instantly elevates the road trip above pleasant.
Performance and driving experience
Utilising a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine the 408 GT gets the twist sent to the front wheels - all 218hp and 300Nm of torque, and is managed by a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission.
Smoothness is ever present here during urban commutes and the engine is capable of sprinting when the urge arises during those opportune moments.
However, while the engine’s performance seems commendable, enthusiasts might still feel wanting of a little more punch from the engine at low speeds, but that automatic transmission just seems too refined to allow for such antics to occur.
Although the steering feel might be a tad on the lighter side of the spectrum, it does allow for the 408 GT to feel manoeuvrable in tight urban settings, but the slight absence of heft does nibble away some of that sporty feel and sense of stability for those dynamic routes and highway cruises.
Despite lacking some on-road aggression to a degree, it isn’t to say that this particular Pug isn’t a runner and the braking system is robust enough to provide a reliable amount of stopping power (though with a slight lack of an initial bite).
On the contrary, once up to speed, the 408 GT should be commended for its road-holding ability as well as its capacity to soak up undulations and uneven roads.
During such instances, at low speeds, that usual rocking motion (though reduced) is still present – a remnant from its predecessors.
In any case, the amount of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) was minimal and occupants remained rather well-insulated from feeling anything sharp intruding into the cabin.
Undoubtedly, the 408 GT is a fusion of style and functionality above all else and provides a refreshing package that prioritises style, comfort, practicality and functionality.
Its sleek design, strong engine, well-appointed interior, and a good set of safety features make it a smart choice for city living.
SPECIFICATIONS
Peugeot 408 GT
Engine: 1,598cc, turbocharged four-cylinder PureTech
Maximum power: 218hp at 5,750rpm
Maximum torque: 300Nm from 2,000 to 6,000rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Acceleration (0-100kph): 8.8 seconds
Features: Six airbags, Electronic Stability Programme, Hill Start Assist, active hood (Pedestrian Protection), adaptive cruise control, traffic signs recognition, autonomous emergency braking, front collision warning, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, Matrix LED with Automatic Beam, 3D ‘Claw Effect’ LED, front grille in matching body colour, spoiler sunroof, keyless entry with push-start button, Dynamic Black Nappa Leather upholstery, powered front seats with driver-side memory and massage function, 10-inch digital cluster with 3D effect, 10-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 10-speaker Focal premium sound system, wireless charger, 360-degree camera system, tyre repair kit, tyre pressure monitoring system, cabin air cleaning system, 20-inch Monolithe Black wheel with 245/40 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric tyres.
Price: RM196,055 (on the road without insurance)
Warranty: 7-year or 200,000km (three-year manufacturer warranty with four-year extended warranty by Stellantis Malaysia)
