5 by Peugeot concept previews 508 saloon

The 5 by Peugeot continues the French manufacturer’s design renaissance, sharing its new look with the 5008 MPV and SR1 concept car.

The gaping grille of the current cars is making way for a more reserved and chiselled look, which Peugeot is hoping will help to give its cars a more upmarket image.

The 508 will be up against some very talented rivals when it arrives, including the Ford Mondeo, Citroen C5 and Vauxhall Insignia. Peugeot will also be hoping to steal sales from the more prestigious Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series, too.

As well as the new styling, the concept car also incorporates a diesel/electric hybrid engine. A 163bhp 2-litre diesel engine powers the front wheels, while a 37bhp electric motor drives the rear, making a total of 200bhp.

The really neat trick is that at low speeds the 5 by Peugeot is powered by electric only, meaning zero-emissions town driving. Average fuel consumption in mixed driving conditions is stated as 74.3 mpg, with CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km.

The car will officially be unveiled at the Geneva motor show on March 2, when we’ll bring you further details and pictures.

By Owen Ready