Locally assembled (CKD) at the Stellantis plant in Gurun, Kedah, the Peugeot 408 will soon make its awaited launch in Malaysia.

The model has been imported to Thailand since late last year but while the Thai-spec 408 is available with both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and petrol powertrains, only the latter could be available in Malaysia.

According to preliminary information from dealers, the 1.6-litre turbocharged PureTech engine could be offered across three variants – Allure, Premium, and GT. The turbo mill produces 218 PS/300 Nm which sends power to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

In Thailand, the PHEV consists of a 1.6-litre turbo engine (180 PS/250 Nm) paired with a 110 PS/320 Nm electric motor to produce a combined output of 225 PS and 360 Nm.

Unlike the previous 408, the new one is a fastback crossover but its closest rival in terms of size is the Honda Civic. That puts it in the C-segment though with a unique shape, it definitely stands out on its own.

As for the three variants, they are distinct from one another by the wheels, at least according to preliminary details. The base Allure gets 18-inch Granite Grey wheels, the mid-range Premium receives 18-inch Granite Black alloys, and the top-of-the-line GT is shod on 20-inch Monolithe Black rims.

The Malaysian-spec 408 could offer the following as standard:

• Front and rear LED lights
• Automatic wipers
• Electric driver seat
• 10-inch digital instrument cluster
• 10-inch infotainment screen
• 6 airbags
• Lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Autonomous emergency braking

From what we noticed, the base 408 Allure comes with partial leather seats, 6 speakers, a reverse camera, and rear parking sensors.

The 408 Premium adds Black Nappa leather seats, driver seat memory function, blind-spot monitors, and lane change assist.

Finally, the highest-spec 408 GT adds matrix LED headlights, Naboo Blue Nappa leather seats, massaging driver seats, a Focal sound system, and a 360-degree panoramic view camera display.

It’s worth reminding that this information is all still speculation. Prices and more details on the Malaysian CKD Peugeot 408 will be revealed as early as next month. Some have speculated that the French C-segment fastback crossover could start at around RM 140k.

Will these be convincing enough to persuade you from the Civic?

Also read: Set to pounce: All-new Peugeot 408, e-2008 BEV, and CKD Landtrek confirmed for Malaysia in 2024