The new Peugeot 408 has landed in the GCC, and UAE buyers get a sharper-looking fastback with a 215hp 1.6-litre turbo engine, an eight-speed automatic and a 220km/h top speed. Peugeot offers it in Allure and GT trims, slotting it beside the 2008, 3008 and 5008 SUVs in the Peugeot regional line-up. Saudi Arabia follows later in 2026.
What Is the New Peugeot 408?
The Peugeot 408 is a French fastback that blends a saloon's low roofline with a crossover's raised stance. Built in Mulhouse, France, the updated GCC model brings new lighting, a 215hp turbo engine and more cabin technology, giving shoppers who find SUVs too tall a stylish five-seat alternative.
It stands just 1.48 metres tall yet sits on a long 2,790mm wheelbase, which explains both its sleek profile and its roomy rear bench.
Peugeot 408 Design Changes
Peugeot redesigned the 408's front and rear lighting for this update. Three slanted LED strips now form the signature "claw" daytime lights and double as sequential indicators, while the grille and bumper gain gloss and matte black detailing. At the back, illuminated Peugeot lettering appears for the first time on any model from the brand.
The GT stretches an LED strip across the nose above a lit-up lion badge. A new Flare Green paint shifts from bright yellow-green in direct sun to a deeper green in shade, a finish that will turn heads under the Dubai sun. Perla Nera Black, Selenium Grey, Okenite White and Elixir Red complete the palette. Allure models ride on 18-inch Detroit diamond-cut wheels, and the GT steps up to 20-inch Monolith rims.
Peugeot 408 Specs, Horsepower and Performance
Every GCC-spec Peugeot 408 uses a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder making 215hp and 300Nm. An eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters and a Sport mode drives the front wheels. Peugeot quotes 0 to 100km/h in 8.8 seconds, a 220km/h top speed and 6.4L/100km combined economy.
Specification | Peugeot 408 (GCC) |
|---|---|
Engine | 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol |
Power / Torque | 215hp / 300Nm |
Transmission | Eight-speed automatic |
0 to 100km/h | 8.8 seconds |
Top speed | 220km/h |
Fuel economy | 15.7km/l (6.4L/100km) |
Turning circle | 11 metres |
The 408 also earns an "Excellent" efficiency grade from the GCC Standardization Organization. Wide 1.59m front and 1.60m rear tracks, plus Peugeot's small steering wheel, aim for a planted, direct feel on fast stretches such as the E11, while the tight turning circle helps in mall car parks.
Interior and i-Cockpit Technology
Inside, the 408 keeps Peugeot's i-Cockpit layout, with a compact wheel set below a raised 10-inch digital cluster. A 10-inch touchscreen angles towards the driver, and both trims include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT adds navigation, voice control, wireless charging and configurable i-Toggles shortcuts.
GT buyers can also option a 10-inch 3D Quartz instrument display. Eight ambient lighting colours run across the dashboard and doors. The GT further brings AGR-certified front seats, a 10-way electric driver's seat with memory, heating and massage, Alcantara trim, a heated wheel, a power sunroof and the Clean Cabin air filter, which shows air-quality data on screen.
Practicality is strong for the class: the boot holds 536 litres, rising to 1,611 litres with the 60:40 rear seats folded, and swallows items up to 1.89 metres long.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Systems
Both Peugeot 408 trims come with a full driver-assistance suite as standard. Highlights include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot detection, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, a 360-degree camera, a driver-attention camera and six airbags.
Active Lane Positioning Assist also lets the driver choose where the car sits within its lane while the system is active, a useful touch on long highway runs between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Peugeot 408 Price and Availability in the UAE
Peugeot has not yet announced the Peugeot 408 price in the UAE or exact on-sale dates for each GCC market. The regional launch confirms the Allure and GT trims, and Stellantis Middle East plans a Saudi Arabian debut later in 2026. Expect local distributors to publish pricing closer to arrival.
Sam Cabani, Regional Brand Director for Stellantis Middle East, said the 408 reflects Peugeot's focus on design, driving dynamics and technology alongside its SUV range. Its main rivals in the segment include the Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5. Keep an eye on our new cars listings for prices once they are confirmed, or browse used Peugeot models in the meantime.
Verdict
The updated Peugeot 408 gives UAE drivers a distinctive alternative to the usual mid-size saloon or SUV. Its 215hp turbo, strong standard safety kit and well-equipped GT trim make a convincing case on paper. Final judgement depends on pricing, which Peugeot has yet to confirm. Follow YallaMotor car news for updates.
FAQs
How much horsepower does the new Peugeot 408 have?
The GCC-spec 408 produces 215hp and 300Nm from a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine.
What is the Peugeot 408 price in the UAE?
Peugeot has not announced UAE pricing yet.
Which trims are available?
Two trims are offered in the GCC: Allure and GT.
What is the Peugeot 408 top speed?
Peugeot quotes a top speed of 220km/h and 0 to 100km/h in 8.8 seconds.
How big is the Peugeot 408 boot?
It offers 536 litres, expanding to 1,611 litres with the rear seats folded.
