Spy photographers caught what could be their next 308-based coupe SUV model, the rumored 4008. This is the first time we see the 308-based model out in the open, making a case for Peugeot’s entry in the popular coupe-SUV segment. The new model could bridge the gap between the 308 compact hatchback and the 3008 C-SUV, offering more interior space than the former and a more aggressive design than the latter. Indeed, the prototype looks quite appealing with slim LED headlights, pronounced shoulders, and a sloping roofline towards the back. It also has a greater ground clearance than normal cars hinting at a crossover-style approach.
Besides the camouflaged prototype wearing
a production body, our spy photographers caught a mule of the same model
testing in northern Sweden. This one wore a modified body of a
previous-generation Peugeot 308 SW but featured widened tracks and a longer
wheelbase. The model will most likely be based on the EMP2 platform, just like
the Peugeot 308, the DS 4, and the Opel Astra. This makes it compatible with
plug-in hybrid powertrains, which are quickly becoming the norm for any
upcoming new model in Europe. In the current Stellantis range PHEVs are producing
a combined output of 177 hp and 222 hp in
front-wheel-drive single-electric motor flavor, or up to 296 hp and 355 hp in all-wheel-drive dual electric motor flavor.
In any case, the combustion engine is the turbocharged 1.6-liter PureTech
four-cylinder petrol engine in various states of tune.
At this point, we can’t be sure about the
nameplate that Peugeot is going to use for its first coupe-SUV, but since this
is a crossover, the 4008 name sounds like the safest bet. While some French
media call this a Renault Arkana competitor, Peugeot’s premium turn during the
past few years suggests that the model could compete with the likes of the more
expensive Audi Q3 Sportback, BMW X2, and Mazda CX-30 in the premium corner of
the segment.
The production version of the first
coupe-SUV from Peugeot is expected to debut in late 2022, or spring 2023 with a
market launch in Europe following shortly after that.
