Peugeot is no stranger to daring design, but the all-new 408 GT takes things further. In a segment often defined by predictability, the 408 GT makes an entrance that’s impossible to ignore, challenging the norms of traditional sedans and SUVs by merging sleek coupe-like styling with crossover practicality.
With its fastback silhouette, elevated ride height, and coupe-like lines, it blurs the boundaries between sedan, SUV, and hatchback. In fact, it doesn’t quite fit into any established box—and that’s exactly the point.
Visually, the 408 GT is in a class of its own. It rides on 19-inch ‘Graphite’ two-tone alloys and sports a dramatic silhouette that Peugeot calls a “fastback.” The frameless grille is integrated with the body-coloured front end, flanked by Matrix LED headlights and the brand’s signature fang-shaped daytime running lights. At the rear, 3-claw LED tail lamps and a sharply raked rear windscreen complete the sporty, avant-garde aesthetic.
Step inside and Peugeot’s signature i-Cockpit cabin makes a bold impression. The compact, squared-off steering wheel may take some getting used to, but it helps frame the 10-inch 3D digital instrument cluster beautifully.
The centre stack houses another 10-inch infotainment display with high-res graphics, customisable i-Toggles, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A premium 10-speaker Focal sound system comes standard, and all touchpoints—from soft Alcantara and leather upholstery to brushed aluminium accents—contribute to a genuinely premium cabin feel.
In terms of dimensions, the 408 GT measures 4,687 mm long, 1,859 mm wide, and 1,478 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,787 mm. That translates to excellent interior space, particularly for front passengers.
Rear occupants benefit from good legroom, though the sloping roofline might impinge slightly on headroom for taller individuals. Still, the car’s practical side shines through with a massive 536-litre boot, expandable to 1,611 litres with the rear seats folded—outdoing many traditional sedans and even some SUVs in its class.
At the heart of the 408 GT is a 1.6-litre turbocharged PureTech inline-four engine, delivering 218 PS and 300 Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
On paper, those numbers position it comfortably among rivals like the Honda Civic RS e:HEV and the Mazda3 Liftback 2.0 High Plus. But unlike those more conservative models, the Peugeot offers a distinctly European flavour—smooth, composed, and with enough low-end punch to make daily driving engaging without being overwhelming.
The performance is complemented by well-balanced ride and handling characteristics. Despite its elevated ride height—offering a ground clearance of 189 mm—the 408 GT handles with the poise of a sedan, aided by MacPherson struts up front and a rear torsion beam.
It’s not a hot hatch, but the suspension tuning strikes an effective balance between comfort and control, particularly on Malaysia’s mix of highways and uneven urban roads.
Tech and safety features are extensive as well. The 408 GT comes with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, including adaptive cruise control with stop & go, lane centring assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, driver attention warning, and autonomous emergency braking.
A 360-degree camera and automated parking assist round out an impressive safety suite that places it on par with, if not slightly ahead of, most rivals.
Speaking of which, the Peugeot 408 GT is priced at RM196,055 on-the-road without insurance, and comes with a 7-year or 200,000km warranty (whichever comes first), which makes it the most expensive model in its segment.
Compared to the Mazda3 Liftback, the Peugeot offers a more dramatic exterior and roomier cargo area, while the Mazda still wins on driver engagement. Against the Honda Civic RS e:HEV, the 408 GT trades fuel efficiency for design flair and a more upmarket cabin.
There are, of course, some trade-offs. Peugeot’s service network in Malaysia is smaller than that of Japanese competitors, and resale value remains a concern among cautious buyers. But for those who want something refreshingly different and don’t mind stepping outside the mainstream, the 408 GT is a compelling package.
That being said, the Peugeot 408 GT is an artfully designed, well-equipped and surprisingly practical fastback that offers something no other car in its class quite can—a sense of flair.
It’s not just a car; it’s a design statement on wheels. For Malaysians tired of the predictable and seeking a vehicle that’s bold yet usable, the 408 GT is a charismatic contender that deserves a closer look.
