Peugeot readies hybrid 3008

Meet the Peugeot Prologue – but this is one car that needs little introduction!

It’s a prototype for the firm’s soon-to-be-released 3008 SUV, which we spied in January (Issue 996). And even in pre-production form, it looks ready to take on all-comers in the mini SUV-MPV crossover market.

The new model is designed to fill a gap below the 4007 SUV, but will face competition from the likes of the Citroen C4 Picasso and Nissan Qashqai. Using an electric hybrid powertrain, the Prologue offers the equivalent of 200bhp and emits only 109g/km of CO2. These figures are near identical to those of its PSA stablemate, the diesel-electric hybrid Citroen Hypnos, which we revealed in Issue 1,029.

Buyers will be able to take their pick from a lighter, more economical front-wheel-drive layout or four-wheel-drive traction, with the latter reserved for range-topping models. A practical seven-seat interior will also set the Prologue apart.

Its platform and engines are shared with the 308 hatchback, so expect the 1.6-litre petrol units PSA co-developed with BMW to be on offer. There will also be a range of economical HDi diesel powerplants.

Insiders at Peugeot have confirmed that the newcomer will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show – where it will be one of a trio of hybrid Lions to be revealed. The RC hybrid coupé and 908 HY Le Mans racer (right) are also set to star in the French capital. And the futuristic cars demonstrate how determined Peugeot bosses are to reduce the firm’s environmental impact. The roadgoing Prologue is set to hit UK showrooms in 2010.