Following previews in Thailand and the launch in Korea, the Peugeot 408 fastback crossover has now been officially introduced to the Japanese market.

Three variants have been made available across two powertrains, priced as follows:

• 1.2L Allure: JPY 4.29 million (~ RM 142k)
• 1.2L GT: JPY 4.99 million (~ RM 166k)
• 1.6L GT Hybrid: JPY 6.29 million (~ RM 209k)

A further ‘GT Hybrid First Edition’ variant – limited to 80 units – which packs Nappa seats and a Focal audio system retails for JPY 6.69 million (~ RM 221k).

Also read: The all-new 2022 Peugeot 408 crossover makes you forget about its awkward sedan past

The Allure and GT variants are powered by the long-serving Puretech 1.2-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder which outputs 130 PS and 230 Nm, while the range-topping GT Hybrid gets a 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain which outputs a combine 225 PS and 360 Nm of torque.

Supplied with a 12 kWh battery, the GT Hybrid is claimed to offer an electric driving range of up to 65 km. All variants feature an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Elsewhere all variants are equipped with Peugeot’s latest generation ADAS suite which utilises 6 cameras and 9 radar sensors. The system features RCTA, ACC with Stop & Go, long-range Blind Spot monitoring, LKA with Lane Positioning and a 360-degree camera.

Closer to home, the Peugeot 408 has been long rumoured for launch in Malaysia.

Also read: Spied: 2023 Peugeot 408 seen in Malaysia, is this stylish French car launching here soon?

More recently, spyshots of the Peugeot 408 bearing ‘K’ tradeplates, have been spotted, possibly hinting at local-assembly (CKD), given Peugeot’s plant is based in Gurun, Kedah.

However, Distributor Bermaz Auto Alliance has yet to say anything about its future model plans other than the fully electric e-2008. Currently, Peugeot has three models on sale in Malaysia, all SUVs – the 2008, 3008, and 5008 – all locally-assembled at Stellantis’ plant in Gurun.