Quartz Concept Crystallizes Peugeot Design Know-How

TURIN – Peugeot aims at the high end of the market at the Paris auto show, where it will unveil an all-new concept vehicle next to the reworked Exalt concept that debuted in April at the Beijing show.

Paris showgoers will see the 500-hp Peugeot Quartz Concept, conceived and designed to be bullish on power and style without neglecting technology.

The Peugeot Quartz combines the space, style and comfort of the Exalt 5-door sedan with the capability and look of a high-performance SUV.

The rear suspension automatically adjusts ground clearance between 11.8-13.8 ins. (300-350 mm). Cameras linked to the satellite navigation system can ‟read” the road and anticipate changes in its surface.

Under the hood the French automaker has packed a compact but potent 1.6L 4-cyl. engine originating in the racing stables and capable of 270 hp and 243 lb.-ft. (330 Nm) of torque.

The ICE engine is complemented by a 114-hp electric motor in each axle that delivers traction to all wheels under electronic management. The rotors recharge the 400V battery through deceleration and, in theory, makes the Quartz capable of traveling 31 miles (50 km) on a single charge with zero emissions.

At 176 ins. (4,470 mm) long and 80 ins. (2,030 mm) wide, the Quartz on the road shows a truly athletic stance that’s further emphasized by its long hood and louvers that help improve airflow to the engine.

Sleek lines convey a dynamic feel accentuated by short overhangs and 23-in. wheels inside generously rounded wheel arches. A glass roof flows toward the rear wings and incorporates two spoilers to enhance its aerodynamic design.

Scissor doors and the lack of a B-pillar complete the classic features of a show car, allowing a great view into the cabin dominated by the four individual bucket seats and the driver-dedicated i-Cockpit.

Here, the compact steering wheel is inspired by the racing world with controls embedded in it, and the head-up display appears on a large, configurable screen with a central 45-degree polycarbonate strip to show additional information.

The instrument panel is on both sides of the steering wheel and the HUD is angled toward the driver to ensure easy access to the toggle switches.