The release of the first images of Peugeot’s 2008 Concept on Tuesday ahead of a world premiere at the Paris Motor Show later this month has been followed up with fresh details on the study and official confirmation for the launch of a closely related production model beginning from 2013.
The 2008 is small crossover in the likes of the Nissan Juke and GM’s Chevrolet Trax and Opel Mokka (Buick Encore in North America), which will be its main rivals. It is based on the underpinnings of the 208 supermini.
The concept version bears the latest stylistic codes of the French marque such as the smaller ‘floating grille’ up front and sleeker and more defined profile lines. The 2008 Concept measures 4.14m (163-inches) long and 1.74m (68.5-inches) wide.
Recent spy pictures (see here) suggest that the production model will stay close to the basic shape and styling of the concept vehicle.
Peugeot said that the 2008 Concept is equipped with a development of firm’s new generation 3-cylinder petrol engines, and in particular, a 1.2-liter unit with turbocharging and direct-injection technology that delivers a power output of 110bhp while also offering, “low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions”.
According to the automaker, the 2008 Concept (and therefore, its production sibling) was designed and engineered by Peugeot’s centers in Europe, China and Latin America.
Likewise, the production model that will go on sale next year will be manufactured first in France (Mulhouse) then in China (Wuhan) and later in Brazil (Porto Real).
PHOTO GALLERY
