This is the new Peugeot 408, which has been caught testing in heavy disguise.
As previously revealed by Autocar, the replacement for the 407 will be more conservatively styled and less of a visual leap forward as its predecessor.
The car will be more evolutionary in its looks than the step from 406 to 407, said a company insider.
However, it is understood that the design will have eye-catching detailing and “hard-edged” looks that will help it stand out from other mid-sized saloons.
“The car will be an evolution, not revolution,” said the source. “For the overall effect, think Insignia.”
An all-new chassis features, which it will share with the new Citroen C5. Other technology which should make production is hydropneumatic suspension and adaptive headlamps.
The new 408 will feature a hybrid powertrain in the line-up, most likely with a diesel engine rather than petrol.
Peugeot is pioneering the diesel hybrid in cars like the 3008 and will extend the technology to its next generation of saloons.
A hybrid 408 should be capable of class-leading economy and CO2 of less than 100g/km. It is expected to be officially revealed later this year and will go on sale in the UK in 2010, with the hybrid following in 2011.
Thanks to: Autocar