Peugeot 608’s future is finally taking shape. Plans for this new flagship from the French manufacturer were put on hold a while ago because of Peugeot 607 poor sales, but now it seems that a new strategy is in the making, similar to what Mercedes-Benz is doing for its own R-Class line. According to Auto Bild, the 608 will be launched in 2014 in the shape of a huge luxury crossover - measuring 5 meters in length - but with a more slender and sporty design than the German model.

The exterior aesthetics should be inspired by the recent HX1 Concept (pictured) while the mechanics will make use of all the latest developments from the PSA Group, mostly the Hybrid4 platform which uses diesel and electric engines and can be used to make different types of car, including four-wheel drive and zero emissions models.

The 608 could actually be based on a bigger version of this platform, using a 200 hp diesel coupled with a 95 hp electric engine. This combination, in addition to the predictable luxury finishing and top-of-the-range extras, will probably boost the price of the 608 to over 50,000€, making it enter that premium segment of the market where it will have to face stiff competition from other well-established models.

Pictures | Autoblog

....

0 comments