Over the Hybrid 136, this plug-in hybrid uses a more powerful, 1.6-litre engine, combined with a stronger electric motor and bigger battery for a total power output of 222bhp. It’s noticeably quicker (not that we think the Hybrid 136 is in dire need of more performance) and the best choice for company car drivers.

1.6 Hybrid 225

Saloon

Peugeot has its strongest model line-up for some years, with some of its cars now rated by our testers as being among the very best available.

Highlights focus around the firm’s newest SUVs, the 3008 and 5008. The 5008 was named Large SUV of the Year at the 2018 What Car? Awards, thanks to its appealing blend of space, interior quality and low running costs.

That bodes well for future launches, too, because many of the learnings from these cars will be passed on as new versions of existing cars are launched – something that could take many years, because the Peugeot range is so big, ranging from an entry-level supermini with the 108 to an executive saloon with the 508, up into the SUV range and also vans.

Buyers should evaluate some of the lower-rated cars in the range more carefully, though. Some are now quite old, and are subsequently left behind in terms of quality when compared with the opposition, making them below-average buys, in our estimation.

PEUGEOT

This entry-level trim has all the basics covered and is our recommended version. It gets rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, dual-zone climate control and other useful kit.

Allure

1.6 Plug-in Hybrid 225 Allure 5dr e-EAT8

Version review

Peugeot 408 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid 225 Allure 5dr e-EAT8 Review

Complete the 2024 What Car? Reliability survey >>

https://survey.alchemer.eu/s3/90474827/16ebb403e3a6&rdt=2

Volkswagen ID 7 Tourer

Renault Symbioz

Dacia Spring

Alfa Romeo Junior

Peugeot e-5008

MG Cyberster

NEW REVIEWS:

site ribbon config

16-plug-in-hybrid-225-allure-5dr-e-eat8

Front and rear electric windows with one touch/anti pinch

Adaptive driver and front passenger airbags with passenger airbag deactivation function

LED side indicator lights integrated into door mirrors

Electric, heated, and power folding door mirrors

Driver and passenger seat manual adjustment for height, slide and backrest angle

Peugeot 408

The Peugeot 408 is plush inside and fairly well equipped. The closely-related Citroën C5 X is cheaper to buy and softer riding, but you might prefer the 408’s more tied-down feel and sharper handling. What’s more, the plug-in hybrid 408's slightly longer electric range makes it a better choice for company car users. The entry-level Hybrid 136 engine makes the most sense for private buyers, and we recommend Allure trim.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes.

NEW REVIEWS:

Peugeot 408 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid 225 Allure 5dr e-EAT8 Review

Find your perfect 408

Get the best price with What Car?

The model

The trim

The engine

Buying with What Car?

Key information

Available colours

232.3

471

litres

28

g/km

Also consider

Peugeot 408

Mazda 3 Saloon

New Audi A3 Saloon

Mercedes A-Class Saloon

Quick search

Tools & services

Legal bits

Information