New Peugeot E-408 2026 review: stylish, comfy EV with iffy tech

Despite what the razor-sharp styling might suggest, the E-408 is not a sporty or exciting car to drive, but it is reasonably comfortable and a solid all-rounder, which is probably what most family buyers are looking for. The ride is firm and a bit jittery at low speeds, but it gets better and smoother the faster you go. Combined with the quiet cabin, this Peugeot feels most at home on a motorway.

It has sufficient power to briskly get up to M25 speeds, but not enough to pin occupants in their seats like a Tesla Model 3[1]. Body control is good, until you try to change direction quickly, then you'll suddenly notice the E-408 leaning over. The steering is also light and devoid of feeling that would hint at what the wheels are up to, yet it's quick enough that you're not spinning the tiny steering wheel around while driving along a twisty country road.

Surprisingly, rear visibility isn't bad, even with that heavily sloped windscreen. The bigger issue is the lack of a rear wiper, so drivers will want to be more cautious than usual driving in heavy rain. Standard kit includes the dual 10-inch displays, wireless smartphone connectivity, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera, 19-inch alloy wheels and myriad driver-assistance features, such as lane-keep assist and driver-attention monitoring.

GT and GT Premium trim adds ambient lighting, the illuminated grille and Peugeot badge, a smart tailgate and a wireless charging pad, among other equipment. The UK Government's GBP1,500 Electric Car Grant[2] means the Peugeot E-408 is currently available from GBP32,695 - that's only GBP700 more than the base hybrid version. But as impressive as nearly achieving price parity is, the newly crowned Auto Express Car of the Year[3] for 2026, the Nissan Leaf, with the upgraded battery and a 386-mile range costs about the same.

Model:Peugeot E-408 GT PremiumPrice:GBP37,995On sale:NowPowertrain:58kWh battery, 1x e-motorTransmission:Single-speed automatic, front-wheel drive0-62mph:7.6 secondsTop speed:99mphRange:280 milesMax. charging:120kW (20-80% in 31 minutes)Size (L/W/H):4,687/2,0621,485mm

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References

1. ^ Tesla Model 3 (www.autoexpress.co.uk)
2. ^ Electric Car Grant (www.autoexpress.co.uk)
3. ^ Car of the Year (www.autoexpress.co.uk)
4. ^ new, used and leasing deals to choose from... (www.autoexpress.co.uk)