Peugeot's Mondeo rival unmasked

Text: Jack Rix / Photos: forum_peugeot.com

28th January 2009

Here’s the picture that proves Peugeot’s all-new 408 is purring into production! The undisguised black Lion was caught out in the open by our spies, giving the best indication yet of how the firm’s Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia rival will look when it hits UK showrooms in 2010.

With its steeply raked roof, swooping bonnet and narrow, swept-back headlights, the new model has plenty of French flair. But that was to be expected when you consider it was previewed by the handsome RC HYmotion4 Concept, seen
at last year’s Paris Motor Show.

There was more than simply style to admire about that car, though. Under its sculpted body was Peugeot’s innovative petrol-electric hybrid powertrain – and this is set to be offered for the first time on the 408. It drives all four wheels, with a gutsy 1.6-litre THP engine sending power to the rear, and a 70KW motor turning the fronts. The set-up generates 313bhp, with 109g/km emissions and Toyota Prius-rivalling 62.7mpg economy.

Despite its green credentials, the RC Concept is claimed to cover 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds – giving most supercars a run for their money. An all-electric mode offers the possibility of zero-emissions motoring, too.

Since Peugeot revealed its 308 diesel-electric hybrid – capable of 83mpg fuel returns and 90g/km emissions – at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007, rumours have been circulating that the hatch would be the first full hybrid offered by the firm.

But with the appearance of this production-ready 408 – and the feasibility of the RC Concept’s powertrain – it seems Peugeot will launch the larger 408 hybrid first, possibly by 2011. After that, the technology will filter down to smaller cars in the range.