It was rather expected, but today, at a press conference, Peugeot launched the 408 Saloon on the Russian market. It will be made in Russia and sold under the price tag of 549,000 rubles which is roughly around 18,559 US dollars. The range will be moderately flexible with three trim levels: Access, Active and Allure.

The thing is, anything above the Access (the entry one) would be pretentious. As standard features, you get electronic brake force distribution, airbags for the front, central locking, heated door mirrors with power adjustment, an engine pan guard and ABS.

The whole power train range consists of 1.6 engines – one diesel and three petrol units. The pressure is on the diesel one as it is supposed to do 5 liters per 100 km on the mixed cycle and yet it has to develop 112 hp and 254 Nm at just 1750 rpm. The petrol ones range from 110 hp to 150 hp and have a figure of consumption at around 7.5 l per 100 km on average. A choice between a five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission will be available.

As a well rounded saloon, the Peugeot 408 sounds like the perfect car for a reasonably large family in Russia. In fact, it's big enough to pass as an executive vehicle. Why would they put an Allure trim otherwise?

Peugeot 408 Saloon

Peugeot 408 Saloon, 1 of 4
Peugeot 408 Saloon, 2 of 4
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Source: Peugeot