On March 7th, it was announced that the fourth-generation 360THP engine by DS Automobiles has officially begun mass production at the Xiangyang factory. This new 1.5T engine will be initially equipped in the latest Peugeot 408 Litter Edition, set to debut on March 18th.
According to officials, this brand-new 1.5T engine is a collaborative effort between DS Automobiles and STELLANTIS Asia Pacific Research & Development Center.
In the technical realm, the engine has achieved a significant enhancement in cylinder intake air swirl ratio by adjusting the piston stroke, resulting in approximately a 13% increase. This was achieved through precise optimization of intake and torque models, adjustment of intake and exhaust VVT (Variable Valve Timing) phasing, as well as ignition timing. These adjustments have led to improved combustion efficiency, thereby enhancing performance and reducing fuel consumption.
Official data indicates that this engine delivers a maximum power of 127 kilowatts (173 horsepower) and peak torque of 255 Newton-meters, with a WLTC (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle) combined fuel consumption of 6.10 liters per 100 kilometers. In comparison, the current Peugeot 408 equipped with a 1.6T engine delivers a maximum power of 125 kilowatts (170 horsepower) and peak torque of 250 Newton-meters.
The all-new Dongfeng Peugeot 408, which completed its filing with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology last year, boasts a large-sized dot matrix grille, flanked by fang-shaped daytime running lights and lion-eye LED headlights, all complemented by Peugeot's latest lion shield badge, presenting an overall design akin to its elder sibling, the 508L.
Measuring 4750/1820/1488mm in length, width, and height respectively, with a wheelbase of 2730mm, the new model retains its compact sedan positioning, with an initial starting price of ¥105,700. In today's fiercely competitive automotive market, it's reasonable to speculate that the starting price of the new model may drop to ¥99,800 or even lower, aiming to penetrate the sub-¥100,000 segment.
