by Peugeot aims to return to the conversation about large cars. This is the main takeaway from the Beijing Auto Show, where the company presented two concepts that preview future flagship electric vehicles and offer hints about the brand’s stylistic ideas for tomorrow.
Concept 6: A hint at the successor to the 508
For enthusiasts, the Concept 6 may be more interesting, as it could be the first hint at the successor to the 508 model, production of which ended last year. Peugeot describes the “six” as a large sedan, and any production version would likely offer a sedan body. But in the form of the show car in Beijing, it is an elegant fastback estate, which we hope will also materialize as a real 508 SW.
Judging by the angle of the rear window, practicality yields to design, although the roofline does not drop to the C-pillar, so rear-seat passengers will likely not feel uncomfortable.
Echoes of the Audi R8
A split rear spoiler, an illuminated Peugeot lion, and six horizontally oriented LEDs create an impression from the rear, while the front end has an equally sporty look, reminiscent of the Audi R8. Three horizontal LEDs on each side are a fresh take on Peugeot’s signature “claw marks.”
Concept 8: Ambitions for a large SUV
The Concept 6 could easily be seen as a new 508, but the Concept 8 is perhaps more ambitious, potentially showing Peugeot’s aspirations for a large luxury SUV that would sit above the current 5008. This idea is supported by previous comments from Peugeot CEO Alain Fave, who told Autocar he is “thinking” about a new flagship SUV.
The Concept 8 uses the same ideas of a split spoiler and horizontal light bar as the estate, along with clean surfaces, voluptuous rear fenders, and a pinched waist. The same design choices can be seen in the Polygon concept, which is believed to be a precursor to the next 208 hatchback. We saw it last year, and this week it debuts in China alongside the Concepts 6 and 8.
Peugeot states that the production cars hinted at by the “six” and the “eight” are developed primarily for the Chinese market and will be built by its partner Dongfeng in Wuhan. However, the company also notes that these cars will be exported to the West from China.
Thus, Peugeot is betting on a return to the large car segment, focusing on the Chinese market but with plans for global export. Concepts 6 and 8 showcase the brand’s new design direction, combining sportiness, elegance, and ambition in creating flagship models. Special attention is drawn to the possibility of a 508 successor in estate form, which could be an interesting proposition for brand enthusiasts. At the same time, Concept 8 indicates Peugeot’s desire to compete in the premium large SUV segment, which could significantly expand the company’s model lineup.
