Say ’allo ’allo to the new face of Peugeot! These official pictures of the 508 saloon and SW estate give a first glimpse of a classier and more restrained look for the brand, which is repeated on the forthcoming 309.
The 508 replaces the 407 and larger 607, and sits between the two in terms of size. That means it offers plenty of space, but a smaller footprint than the slow-selling executive model.
At the front is a narrower grille, as designers move away from the current gaping look. It’s part of a sleeker design for the nose, with a slim air intake under the grille and LED running lights below the tapering headlamps. The Peugeot name is spelled out below the Lion badge on a subtle lip linking bonnet with grille.
The car pictured is the top-spec GT, which is fitted with large alloys and chrome detailing. Buyers will get a choice of a four-door or SW estate body style. Power comes from a 2,0-litre HDi diesel, which produces around 120 kW and is mated to a six-speed manual or conventional automatic gearbox.
In addition, Peugeot will offer the 508 with its groundbreaking HYbrid4 powertrain. This links a 120 kW 2,0-litre HDi engine to a 27 kW electric motor to send 147 kW to all four wheels, and slash CO2 emissions 99 g/km.
The 508 is 10 mm longer than the 407, giving extra rear legroom – key for the Chinese market, where buyers are often chauffeured. The 508 will be built there as well as in France, and is due to debut at October’s Paris Motor Show, before arriving in South African dealerships in mid-2011.
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