Peugeot Quartz
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Sporty crossover
concept debuts next generation Quartz
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Set to shake
up SUV market & rival the Qashqai
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Based on the
same Peugeot 308 EMP2 platform
Pitched as the SUV of the
future, Peugeot rolled out the striking Quartz at the Paris Motor Show this
past fortnight. Blending a stunning design with revolutionary materials, a
powerful Hybrid drivetrain resides under the bonnet to deliver a premium family
car experience.
Style is central to the
angle Peugeot have developed in making an impact in the SUV market. The design
combines the athletic stance of an SUV with the styling of a saloon, encapsulated
by the long bonnet and 23 inch wheels that ooze power and aerodynamic refinement.
As SUV design has moved from raw durability to softer features that are more
suitable for the road, the Quartz has set the scene for future developments.
The roof is completely
glass providing a panoramic view that allows light to flood into the cabin and accentuates
the intricate interior that commands your attention. The technology is
delivered in a simple way that minimises excessive buttons and switches, giving
the interior a clean sweeping appearance that flows well and reflects the exterior
shape. Based upon the i-Cockpit found in the 308, information is communicated through
the head-up screen, with a small instrument placed either side of the compact
steering wheel. Based on the common design in F1 cars, the square steering
wheel improves responsive handling through embedded controls, allowing the
driver to use indicators, shift gears and ultimately channel the Quartz’s
performance at their fingertips.
A 1.6 THP 270 engine resides
under the bonnet, developed by Peugeot Sport making it one of the world’s best
performing power hubs. Controlled through a 6-speed automatic transmission, the
four-cylinder engine achieves 170bhp per litre of fuel.
Pencilled in for arrival
sometime in 2016, prices are expected to start at a competitive £18 000.
Peugeot 308GT
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Available in both hatchback and estate
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Where power and style meet
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Lower ride height and aerodynamic body kit
Already “Car of the Year”
winners 2014, the 308GT delivers pure exhilaration derived from a sporty quality
that is unparalleled. With all performance cars, looks are just important as
execution and the range of colours and accessories available keep choice to a
maximum. Aluminium pedals, stainless steel door sills and an Anthracite-coloured
trim all add effect. Outside, the frame for both the hatch and estate are
sleek, harnessing fluid lines that when combined with the lower ride height
make the model hug the road. Outstanding suspension and optimised body
stability really add to this handling. The 18” diamond alloys are stunning, as
is the high-gloss black diffuser that encases the twin exhaust pipes and really
catches the eye.
Engine wise there will be
two choices, either the 1.6 e-THP 205 turbo petrol or GT180 that comes with a
2.0 BlueHDi 180 turbo diesel engine. The later offers automatic transmission
with both engines offering Stop & Start technology for fuel conservation.
Excellence in engineering
and a focus on performance has meant the 308GT has a superb power-to-weight
ratio. Surprisingly, Peugeot have kept alive an allure of mystery regarding one
element of its performance; the 0-60 acceleration times! Subsequently,
enthusiasts continue to speculate. Check out the first press film released from
the Paris Motor Show below.
Peugeot 208 HybridAir
Introduced as “ground breaking”,
Peugeot continue to target 141mpg by the close of this decade, with the 208
HybridAir spearheading this campaign. Core to this aim is the hybrid drivetrain,
harnessing compressed air technology rather than expensive batteries to optimise
a small capacity engine. Holding up to 20 litres of compressed nitrogen and
oil, the air tank discharges the oil through a motor which in turn turns the
front wheels. There’s three models available, varying the level of compressed
air dependency based on intended use (city commute or motorway journeys).
Interior wise it’s pretty
much the same as the current 208, with Peugeot’s attention focused on improving
the models build and design to maximise fuel economy. A lower stance, spoiler and
smooth windscreen surround ensure the 208 has optimised all aerodynamic features,
with overall car weight lowered by 100kg through improved metal composites that
keep the 208 powering forwards, for longer, on less.