Peugeot SR1 Concept revealed

The Peugeot SR1 Concept will debit at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show

Peugeot has revealed the SR1 Concept, a 2+1 Roadster with Hybrid4 Technology delivering 313bhp and 57mpg. The SR1 heralds a new design direction for Peugeot.

Peugeot are redefining themselves as the ‘Sporty’ part of the PSA partnership, leaving Citroen to go the ‘Luxury’ route. And so far they’re making a pretty credible job of things if the Peugeot RCZ is anything to go by. But the Peugeot SR1 Concept they’ve just revealed takes them on a big leap, no mistake.

The SR1 Concept is a 2+1 Roadster destined to be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March. And from this writers point of view it’s drop-dead gorgeous. More than a hint of Aston Martin going on with the long nose and squat rear-end – and praise doesn’t come much higher than that.

We all know that a ‘Concept’ car indulges in flights of design fantasy, and the SR1 is no different. The interior is full of bits that will never make it in to production, but no matter – it looks good. The 2+1 seating will probably never happen and the ‘Crystal Tube’ instruments are too off the wall for a production car. There’s black nickel and chrome; wood and leather inlays and a Bell & Ross Clock.

The roof is a removable plastic lump apparently inspired by the world of sailing. The doors have strong indentations which are echoed in the front and rear facias and we finally see the end of the Peugeot ‘Gaping-Mouth’ school of design which, as Peugeot are saying the SR1 heralds a new design direction, should see a return to more elegant design at the French company.

Power comes from Peugeot’s Hybrid4 Technology which will show up in the Peugeot 3008 from next year. In the SR1 the engine is a 1.6 litre turbo diesel producing 218bhp coupled to an electric motor in the rear axle delivering a further 95bhp. When working together these produce 313bhp, 4WD and speed-sensitive four wheel steering. It can run in EV only mode and manage 57mpg with emissions of 119g/km.

Another Peugeot I want. What’s going on?