The Peugeot '408 Smart Hybrid,' a 48V-based hybrid, has been launched in the domestic market, rejecting the label of 'mild hybrid.' It is named as such because it clearly outperforms typical 'mild hybrids.'
The smart hybrid technology, first introduced in Korea through the Peugeot 308 in April, combines a 48V battery with an electric motor, providing a new concept powertrain that enhances both fuel efficiency and driving responsiveness simultaneously. Peugeot expands the application of the smart hybrid powertrain to the 408, a crossover model that combines the advantages of both sedans and SUVs, with full-scale sales starting on the 24th.
Debuting in the domestic market in 2023, the Peugeot 408 has showcased a dynamic design and agile driving feel, establishing a strong presence while accounting for 35.5% of total Peugeot sales from 2024 to date, solidifying its status as a 'star model.' Its sleek silhouette created by a low height of 1500mm, paired with a contrasting length of 4700mm and a wheelbase of 2790mm that provides a spacious interior, boasts a drag coefficient of 0.28cd achieved by the rear roof design dubbed 'Cat's Ear,' ensuring a striking presence on the road. The grille design exudes sophistication and boldness, completed by daytime running lights modeled after a lion's fangs, creating Peugeot's unique identity.
The Peugeot tradition of aircraft-inspired interior design also enhances an intuitive and enjoyable driving experience. The 'i-Cockpit®,' composed of a compact D-cut steering wheel and a head-up 3D cluster, aids in intuitive operation. The i-Connect® infotainment system features a 10-inch high-resolution screen specification with excellent responsiveness and usability, accommodating various convenience specifications like Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto for smartphone mirroring. Additionally, it provides SUV-level practicality with a trunk space that expands from a base of 536 liters to a maximum of 1,611 liters when the rear seats are folded.
In addition, it upgrades its marketability by incorporating hybrid powertrains, which are emerging as a trend in the automotive market, aiming to target domestic consumers with higher expectations for enhanced economic efficiency, driving enjoyment, and safety.
The Peugeot smart hybrid system consists of a 1.2-liter PureTech gasoline engine, a 48V lithium-ion battery, and a hybrid-exclusive 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (e-DCS6), maximizing efficiency with a structure that integrates the electric motor inside the transmission, enabling electric motor driving and regenerative braking during starting and acceleration.
In urban driving environments, it can operate on electricity for about 50% of the total driving time, providing electric vehicle levels of quietness and smooth driving feel in situations like traffic jams, parking, and restart after stopping. Coupled with precise steering wheel response based on motorsport expertise and high-speed stability, it creates Peugeot's unique light and agile driving feel.
The 408 Smart Hybrid boasts a combined power of 145 horsepower (European standards) from both the engine and electric motor, delivering outputs of 136 ps from the engine and 15.6 kW from the electric motor, with a maximum torque of 23.5 kg·m and 5.2 kg·m. It records a combined fuel efficiency of 14.1 km/l, with efficiency ratings of 13.7 km/l in urban driving and 14.7 km/l in highway driving. With CO₂ emissions of 114 g/km, it has obtained the domestic second-class low-emission vehicle certification, allowing it to receive various benefits such as discounts in public parking lots and congestion charges.
The upper GT trim includes an i-Toggle display, a clean cabin air purification system, massage seats, and a mobile wireless charging tray, creating a sophisticated atmosphere with ambient lighting in eight colors. It is also equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for safety. Various safety specifications are provided as standard, including adaptive cruise control (ACC) with stop-and-go functionality, driver attention alarm systems, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning systems, front collision alarm systems, and rear parking assist systems. Furthermore, the GT trim includes features such as a blind-spot collision alarm system, full LED matrix headlights, auto high beam control, and a 360-degree panoramic camera.
The official selling prices for the 408 Smart Hybrid are 43.9 million won for the Allure and 48.9 million won for the GT. When reflecting the reduction in individual consumption tax, the GT can be purchased for 48.174 million won. (The Allure trim is scheduled to be released later.)
Bangsil, the representative of Stellantis Korea, noted, 'The 408 Smart Hybrid will be able to provide expanded hybrid options for customers who prioritize efficiency and style.' He added, 'We aim for Peugeot to establish itself as an attractive alternative amid the rapidly growing hybrid market.'
Meanwhile, Peugeot will implement a fixed-price consignment sales system for the 408 Smart Hybrid, following the 308 Smart Hybrid. Consumers will be able to purchase vehicles at the same price and benefits at any dealership nationwide, enjoying a more efficient and transparent buying experience without price comparisons or negotiations between dealers. Additionally, if it is confirmed that a vehicle has been sold at a lower price than the official selling price, the Peugeot Promise price guarantee system compensates for the difference. Through this system, they prioritize building trust with customers and establishing a fair and consistent distribution environment.
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