4 turns to 5 by Peugeot

The 5 by Peugeot model displayed at this year's Geneva motor show was designed to be more than just a concept study.

During the launch of the RCZ last week, Peugeot spokespersons confirmed the concept car points to the new form and style of the brand's replacement for its mid-size 407 model.

The near-production-looking 5 by Peugeot concept (pictured) has a narrower, more subtle grille design than the 407's version and introduces the PSA Group's HYbrid4 technology.

It's also larger than the 407 all 'round, indicating the next mid-size offering from Peugeot will be more spacious. Peugeot insiders couldn't confirm when the replacement 407 model would go into production.

Spokesman for the brand in Australia, Richard Grant, told the Carsales Network his company anticipated having to go without a mid-size offering for six to eight months, but Peugeot Australia has access to stock to last until the third or fourth quarter this year.

The 408 was recently released for China's market. It extends on the 308 model and will only be sold in China, which is evidence of Peugeot's readiness to accommodate markets other than those where it is well established, like Europe, according to Peugeot.

Peugeot says it is also focussed on large luxury offerings, such as the replacement for the 607. The 5008 peoplemover was released this year and has already notched up significant sales in Europe.

As with the RCZ concept, don't expect to have to wait too long for the appearance -- in Europe at least -- of the new Peugeot sedan. From what we saw at Geneva, the sedan is well-nigh good to go...

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at www.carsales.mobi