2023 Peugeot 408 Cross PHEV spied

Peugeot is getting funky.

A new high-riding coupe, likely to be dubbed the 408 Cross, has been snapped testing with plug-in hybrid power.

Although it may have its own badge, the 408 Cross is essentially a high-riding take on the 308 hatchback. It’s built on the same EMP2 platform, and is likely to be offered with the same range of petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Externally, it’s set apart from the more mainstream 308 by its sloping roof line, raised ride, and what looks like a set of very funky alloy wheels.

Given it’s a more style-focused alternative to the 308, more than the wheels will likely change. Peugeot is at pains to hide the finer details on this particular mule, but tweaked lighting signatures and detailing in the bumpers and grille are likely.

The 408 Cross isn’t alone in offering a high-riding, coupe-styled body within the Peugeot-Citroen arm of Stellantis. The current C4 has morphed into a style-focused crossover, with a raised ride and a coupe profile.

Given it hasn’t yet been revealed, the 408 Cross hasn’t been locked in for Australia. The 308 on which it’s based, however, will come Down Under.

Peugeot has confirmed the new-generation 308 range will now arrive in the second half of 2022.

Government approval documents show the 308 range will be available with a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine in Allure and GT Sport trims, and a 1.6-litre turbocharged plug-in hybrid petrol four.

Local pricing and specifications have yet to be announced. Peugeot says a full outline of its launch plans will be released in the new year.

In Europe, there are two turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder and two turbocharged 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid four-cylinder powertrains, but according to the approval documents we’re only receiving the more powerful of each.

The 1.2-litre produces 96kW of power, while the plug-in hybrid combines a 132kW petrol engine with an 81kW electric motor and 12.4kWh battery pack. Claimed electric range is 59km on the stricter WLTP cycle.