Peugeot 408 Hybrid Engine and Performance Review [2024]

The Peugeot 408 Hybrid Engine is a significant milestone in the journey towards more sustainable and efficient driving, showcasing Peugeot’s prowess in engineering vehicles that don’t compromise on performance for environmental friendliness. This innovative hybrid system, paired with a robust petrol engine, delivers a seamless blend of power and efficiency, making the Peugeot 408 a standout in its category.

For drivers currently driving the petrol version of the 408, we offer a comprehensive Peugeot 408 petrol engine review. This review is tailored to those interested in exploring all the capabilities and features of the petrol variant, ensuring you have all the information needed to appreciate the full range of what the 408 has to offer.

Peugeot 408 HYBRID 136 e-DSC6

Overview of the Petrol Hybrid Engine

The Peugeot 408 offers a petrol engine that is both dynamic and efficient. This particular model features a 1199 cc engine that delivers 136 horsepower (100 kW) at 5500 rpm. Such power output ensures that the car can handle daily driving with ease, providing a smooth and responsive experience. The engine’s maximum torque of 170 lb/ft (230 Nm) at 1750 rpm demonstrates its readiness to accelerate from a standstill with brisk efficiency.

Key Specifications

The direct injection type is another feature of this engine that stands out. It allows for better fuel combustion by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber, which not only improves performance but also enhances fuel efficiency. Moreover, the service interval of 16,000 miles or once a year signifies low maintenance needs, further adding to the convenience for the owner.

Peugeot 408 Hybrid Engine Synergy

In the hybrid configuration, the petrol engine is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, labeled as HYBRID 136 e-D5C6. This system offers a blend of both worlds: the immediate power delivery of an electric motor with the range and flexibility of a petrol engine. The dual-clutch setup allows for quick gear shifts, reducing the time spent in transition between gears, and contributing to a smoother drive.

The combination of the petrol engine with the hybrid system ensures that drivers will enjoy a spirited performance without compromising on fuel economy. This setup is ideal for those who want a car that feels at home on both city streets and the open road, providing power when needed and efficiency during cruising.

Stay tuned for the detailed exploration of each model, where we will dive into the intricacies and unique attributes of the different transmission and hybrid options available with the Peugeot 408. We will be covering the 8-speed Efficient Automatic Transmission in both PLUG-IN HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 and PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 variants, analyzing their performance and how they contribute to the overall driving experience of this exceptional vehicle.

The Electric Motor

Moving deeper into the heart of the Peugeot 408’s performance, we find the electric motor, a key component that significantly enhances the hybrid experience. It’s integrated with the innovative e-EAT8 gearbox and positioned at the front, playing a vital role in the car’s operation.

Electric Motor Specifications

This table illustrates the key specs of the Peugeot 408’s electric motor. Despite its modest power output, the electric motor is essential in providing immediate torque, which enhances the car’s responsiveness, especially in start-stop urban driving scenarios.

Peugeot 408 Hybrid Battery

The lithium-ion battery is the energy reserve that powers the electric motor. With a warranty that covers 2 years of unlimited mileage or 3 years up to 60,000 miles, the Peugeot 408 offers peace of mind when it comes to battery reliability and longevity.

Sustainable Driving

While specific details on the electric range for both combined and city cycles are not specified, the presence of an electric motor itself indicates a commitment to sustainable driving. By reducing the dependency on the petrol engine, especially during low-speed city driving, the Peugeot 408 Hybrid aims to lower emissions and running costs.

The onboard charger details are not mentioned, which typically indicates the charging capabilities and times. This would be an essential factor for those looking to understand how the vehicle fits into their daily routine, particularly when it comes to recharging.

Combined Performance of Peugeot 408 Hybrid

When we talk about the combined performance of a hybrid vehicle, we refer to how the petrol engine and electric motor work together to provide an optimized driving experience.

Combined Performance Details

The details for combined maximum power and torque are not provided in the data, but these figures would illustrate the vehicle’s full potential when both the electric motor and petrol engine operate in unison. This synergy allows for higher power and torque figures than what each could achieve individually, translating into better acceleration and overtaking capabilities.

In summary, the Peugeot 408’s hybrid system offers a thoughtful balance between performance, efficiency, and environmental consciousness. This combination is particularly beneficial in urban environments, where the stop-start nature of city driving can take advantage of the electric motor’s instant torque and zero-emission operation.

As we continue to examine the Peugeot 408’s impressive lineup of powertrains, the next sections will delve into the 8-speed Efficient Automatic Transmission options available with the PLUG-IN HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 and PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 models, where we expect to uncover further advancements in performance and efficiency.

Transmission

An integral component of the Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s performance is its transmission system. The 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is a key player in how the vehicle handles and transfers the engine’s power to the road.

Understanding the Dual-Clutch Transmission

This table provides a snapshot of the transmission details for the Peugeot 408 Hybrid. But what does this actually mean for you as a driver?

Smooth Shifting and Efficient Driving

The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) combines the ease of an automatic with the efficiency of a manual transmission. The dual-clutch system pre-selects the next gear, making gear changes quicker and smoother, resulting in a more responsive driving experience. This type of transmission is known for its ability to provide rapid shifts and a seamless power delivery that can improve both acceleration and fuel economy.

Front Wheel Drive

The choice of front-wheel drive for the Peugeot 408 Hybrid ensures a balance between fuel efficiency and traction. Front-wheel-drive cars are typically lighter and more fuel-efficient than their all-wheel-drive counterparts, and they offer better traction than rear-wheel-drive vehicles in wet conditions, which makes the Peugeot 408 Hybrid a practical choice for a variety of driving conditions.

The 6-gear arrangement is also well-suited for a hybrid vehicle, where efficiency is key. With six speeds, the gearbox can keep the engine running within its optimal range, contributing to fuel economy and reducing emissions.

In essence, the transmission of the Peugeot 408 Hybrid is designed to offer a smooth and efficient driving experience, which is crucial for those who spend a lot of time on the road, whether it be on highway trips or navigating through urban landscapes.

In the upcoming sections, we will delve into the specific models—the PLUG-IN HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 and PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8—and their respective 8-speed Efficient Automatic Transmissions, which are set to offer an even more refined driving experience, with additional focus on performance and driver engagement.

Weight and Performance

In this section, we delve into the Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s weight characteristics and how they impact its performance. The weight of a vehicle plays a crucial role in both its dynamics and efficiency.

Vehicle Weight Specifications

Here’s a breakdown of the weight metrics for the Peugeot 408 Hybrid:

Understanding the Metrics

• Gross Vehicle Weight refers to the maximum weight of the vehicle when fully loaded. The Peugeot 408 sits comfortably at 2000 kg, which is a moderate figure for a hybrid vehicle, balancing structure strength and material efficiency.
• Mass in Service is the weight of the car with all the standard equipment, full fuel tank, and a driver weighing 75 kg. It’s lower than the gross weight because it doesn’t include the weight of passengers or cargo.
• Kerb Weight is the weight of the car without passengers or cargo, but with a full tank of fuel. It’s a vital figure as it is a more accurate representation of the vehicle’s weight during typical use.
• Gross Train Weight is the total weight of the car plus a trailer, showcasing the vehicle’s capacity to handle additional loads.
• Maximum Braked Trailer Weight indicates the heaviest trailer the car can tow when the trailer has its own braking system.
• Maximum Tow Ball Weight is the maximum weight that can be directly exerted on the tow ball, which is crucial for those planning to tow.

Performance Dynamics

Alongside the weight specifications, performance figures are also notable:

Impact on Driving

• The Maximum Speed in Sport Mode highlights the vehicle’s capability to reach a top speed of 131 mph, which is impressive for a hybrid, indicating that the electric motor’s assistance is effectively utilized in combination with the petrol engine.
• Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 10.2 seconds for a hybrid vehicle is quite respectable, suggesting that the power-to-weight ratio has been carefully optimized to ensure that the car remains lively and engaging to drive.

Overall, these figures demonstrate that the Peugeot 408 Hybrid manages to strike a commendable balance between weight and performance, ensuring that it remains efficient without compromising on driving enjoyment or practical utility. This balance is essential for drivers who want a car that is not only agile in urban environments but also capable and stable on highways and when carrying heavy loads or towing.

Next, we’ll look at the 8-speed Efficient Automatic Transmission variants, the PLUG-IN HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 and PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8, and how they influence the driving dynamics and efficiency of the Peugeot 408.

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions: The Eco-Conscious Metrics

In our modern world, fuel efficiency and carbon emissions are at the forefront of automotive performance metrics. The Peugeot 408 Hybrid makes no exception, boasting figures that reflect its commitment to an eco-friendlier driving experience.

Fuel Consumption and CO2 Emissions

The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are crucial indicators of the vehicle’s environmental impact and running costs:

Interpreting the Numbers

• Fuel Consumption is reported in a range from 47.9 to 58.8 MPG (miles per gallon), which converts to 5.9 to 4.8 litres per 100 kilometers. The variance accounts for different driving conditions, with the higher MPG (or lower litres/100km) reflecting more efficient driving situations, such as steady highway driving.
• Carbon Dioxide Emissions are a measure of the vehicle’s environmental footprint. With a range of 108 to 133 grams per kilometer, the Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s emissions are relatively low for a vehicle of its class, which is beneficial both for the environment and for tax purposes in many regions where vehicle taxes are emissions-based.

The Role of Transmission

Once again, we see the 6-speed automatic front-wheel-drive transmission come into play. It’s not just there for smooth gear changes and driving comfort, but also for ensuring that the engine operates at the most efficient rpm, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Why These Figures Matter

• For the environmentally conscious, the CO2 emissions figure is a testament to the effectiveness of the hybrid system in reducing the car’s carbon footprint.
• For the cost-conscious, the combined MPG figure directly correlates to the distance one can drive per gallon of fuel, which translates into savings at the pump.

With fuel efficiency and emissions becoming increasingly important to consumers and legislators alike, the Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s performance in these areas is commendable. It stands as a testament to Peugeot’s efforts to produce vehicles that not only perform well but also take into account the broader impact on the environment and the owner’s wallet.

The Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s array of features and specifications meet these challenges head-on, delivering a vehicle that is not just a mode of transportation but a statement of conscious driving in the modern age.

Regulated Emissions

As we edge closer to a more environmentally-aware future, the impact of our vehicles on air quality has never been more scrutinized. The Peugeot 408 Hybrid incorporates technology that aims to lessen its environmental impact, a reflection of which can be seen in its regulated emissions data.

Detailed Emissions Breakdown

Here is a closer look at the Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s emissions:

Understanding the Impact

• Carbon Monoxide (CO): A gas that is colorless, odorless, and harmful when inhaled in large amounts. The Peugeot 408 Hybrid emits 406.1 mg/km, a figure that is typically kept in check with modern catalytic converters.
• Total Hydrocarbons (THC): These are the components of unburnt fuel that contribute to smog formation. The value of 18.4 mg/km is relatively low, which indicates that the vehicle’s engine runs a clean combustion process.
• Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): These gases contribute to smog and acid rain and are challenging to control in combustion engines. The emission of 176 mg/km shows that the vehicle uses technologies such as selective catalytic reduction to minimize NOx output.
• Particulate Matter (PM): These are tiny particles that can enter the respiratory system, with a value of 0.21 mg/km, the Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s emissions in this category are very low, which is excellent for air quality, particularly in urban areas.

The Role of Hybrid Technology

Hybrid vehicles like the Peugeot 408 are instrumental in reducing emissions. They limit the use of the petrol engine, especially in city driving where emissions are a significant concern. The use of the electric motor reduces the overall need for fuel combustion, thus reducing the emissions across the board.

The Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s emissions data is an encouraging sign that automotive manufacturers are taking significant steps to produce vehicles that not only excite us with their performance but also care for the environment by emitting fewer pollutants. This conscious design aligns with global efforts to improve air quality and push towards a more sustainable future.

In our final discussions on the Peugeot 408, we will synthesize the information to present a holistic view of the vehicle’s performance, fuel economy, and environmental impact. The Peugeot 408 Hybrid stands as an example of how modern vehicles can strike a balance between the demands of the road and the needs of our planet.

Braking, Suspension, and Tyres

When it comes to the driving experience, control is just as important as power. The Peugeot 408 Hybrid offers a comprehensive package that includes effective braking systems, reliable suspension setups, and quality tyres that contribute to the vehicle’s overall safety and handling characteristics.

Brakes

The size of the brakes is a direct indicator of the vehicle’s stopping capability. With 304mm at the front and 268mm at the rear, the Peugeot 408 is equipped with brakes that ensure sufficient stopping power. Larger front brakes account for the fact that the front of the car bears more weight during braking, thus requiring larger discs to dissipate heat and maintain effectiveness.

Suspension

The Peugeot 408 Hybrid comes with a Pseudo MacPherson strut setup at the front, which is a widely used and reliable suspension system offering a good balance between ride quality and handling. At the rear, the twist beam axle is a simpler, more compact system that provides stability and consistency, contributing to a comfortable ride, especially over uneven road surfaces.

Tyres

Tyres are where the car meets the road, and the Peugeot 408 uses 19-inch Michelin tyres. These are A-class tyres, which indicate high ratings in fuel efficiency and wet grip according to European tyre labelling. The size and quality of the tyres play a pivotal role in fuel economy, road noise, comfort, and safety.

Handling and Ride Quality

The combination of the braking system, suspension type, and tyre quality defines the Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s handling and ride quality. A good braking system provides confidence in the car’s ability to stop effectively, while the suspension system’s job is to absorb bumps on the road, keeping the car stable and the ride smooth. Tyres affect not just the car’s grip on the road but also how it feels during driving—too hard, and the ride is uncomfortable; too soft, and it may not handle well.

The Peugeot 408 Hybrid’s features are thoughtfully designed to work in harmony, providing a safe, comfortable, and controlled driving experience. It’s the finer details like brakes, suspension, and tyres that culminate to define the quality of every journey in the Peugeot 408 Hybrid. Every aspect from efficiency to emissions has been tuned to offer a balanced, responsible, and enjoyable ride, embodying what modern drivers seek in a vehicle.

In concluding our exploration of the Peugeot 408 Hybrid Engine, it’s evident that this vehicle not only pushes the boundaries of hybrid technology but also does so with an eye towards environmental responsibility and driving enjoyment. The blend of high performance, efficient fuel use, and low emissions underscores Peugeot’s dedication to forward-thinking automotive solutions. While this review highlights the key features and benefits of the Peugeot 408 Hybrid Engine, there’s much more to discover about the full capabilities of this exceptional vehicle. We encourage you to read our in-depth Peugeot 408 review for a thorough analysis, helping you make an informed decision whether this hybrid marvel aligns with your driving preferences and lifestyle.

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