Is the Peugeot 408 PHEV coming to PH?

Peugeot Philippines has been relatively quiet for some time. While they did preview an electric version of the 2008 at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), they have yet to launch an all-new or facelifted model. The company even has (supposed) plans to bring the Landtrek pickup truck here although that also has its share of issues.

However, Peugeot Philippines may be looking at an electrified vehicle to freshen the lineup and announce its intention to offer more than just ICE vehicles. For the past several days, the automaker has been posting pictures and details about the 408 which was revealed around two years ago. The sleek crossover combines coupe-inspired looks with SUV-like aesthetics along with a relatively tall ride height – resulting in a truly unique-looking vehicle.

Under the hood, the 408 is available with a 1.6-liter turbocharged plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. The engine is assisted by an electric motor along with a 12.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The result is a combined system output of up to 225 PS and 360 Nm of torque. There is also a lesser variant that makes 180 PS but retains the 360 Nm of pull. Power is then sent to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

In other markets, the 408 can also be powered by a non-hybrid 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four which makes 218 PS and 300 Nm of torque. Like the PHEV variant, the turbocharged version is also mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Peugeot Philippines has yet to announce if they will launch any new products this year. However, the automaker did hold a dealer conference last week which could mean they have plans this 2024 to expand their market presence and perhaps reveal new vehicles soon.

With MIAS 2024 only several months away, we might see Peugeot reveal something special at this year's auto show. The only question now is, will it be the 408 or something else entirely?