Peugeot Exalt Concept Revealed Ahead of Beijing Debut
The Peugeot Exalt Concept, a four-door hybrid coupe, has been unveiled early ahead of its official premiere at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show, previewing design and powertrain innovation.
Peugeot has revealed the Exalt Concept, a four-door coupe intended for its official debut at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show, following an accidental early release of images and details. The Exalt follows the Onyx concept and signals Peugeot’s continued push into bold design and hybrid technology.
Peugeot Exalt Concept: Early Reveal of a Striking Four-Door Coupe
Accidental Unveiling and Design Background
The Exalt Concept was inadvertently unveiled when Peugeot sent out information and images ahead of the planned announcement date. The official reveal was scheduled for later in April 2014 at the Beijing Motor Show, but details emerged a few days early. This concept had been previously teased by Peugeot in January 2014 as a spiritual successor to the Onyx, continuing the brand’s exploration of futuristic design and advanced materials.
Peugeot’s decision to show the Exalt in Beijing reflects the growing significance of the Chinese market for premium and concept vehicles. The timing aligns with other manufacturers also using the Beijing show to introduce their latest concepts, indicating a shift in focus towards global audiences and emerging markets.
Exterior Styling and Materials
The Exalt Concept adopts a low, wide stance with pronounced wheel arches and sharp creases, combining steel panels with contrasting finishes. The exterior is finished in bare steel, while the rear quarter features a textured surface for visual contrast. This bold approach to materials and surfacing is intended to make the Exalt stand out among other concept cars.
Peugeot positions the Exalt as a follow-up to the Onyx, adopting a similarly aggressive silhouette but with a more practical four-door layout. The overall design language is focused on dynamic lines and a muscular profile, aiming to blend performance cues with the elegance expected of a large coupe.
Interior Approach: Materials and Ambience
While interior images were not included in the early release, Peugeot previously indicated that the cabin would mix leathers, textiles, ebony, and raw steel. This choice of materials is intended to distinguish the Exalt from its rivals and create a unique ambience. The use of natural materials and exposed metal echoes the Onyx’s approach, but with a focus on comfort and usability for four occupants.
The concept aims to balance luxury and practicality, hinting at the direction future Peugeot interiors may take.
Hybrid4 Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the Exalt Concept is Peugeot’s Hybrid4 system, pairing a petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 340hp (250kW). Although detailed technical specifications have not been released, the Hybrid4 system is expected to drive all four wheels, as seen in previous Peugeot applications. This places the Exalt among the more powerful recent Peugeot concepts, with performance figures that match its dramatic looks.
The Hybrid4 powertrain is a significant aspect of Peugeot’s strategy, showcasing the brand’s commitment to combining lower emissions with high performance. The Exalt’s 340hp output is at the top end for Peugeot concept vehicles, demonstrating the potential for hybrid systems in future production models. The company has not yet provided figures for acceleration or range, but the focus on performance and innovation is clear.
Significance for Peugeot and Future Prospects
The Exalt Concept’s unveiling highlights Peugeot’s ambition to push the boundaries of design and technology. By blending raw materials, hybrid technology, and a practical four-door coupe layout, the Exalt is intended to gauge public and media reaction in a key market. Although the Exalt is not currently slated for production, its styling cues and hybrid powertrain are likely to influence future Peugeot models, particularly in the premium segment.
The use of the Beijing Motor Show to introduce the Exalt reflects broader industry trends, with global manufacturers increasingly targeting China for major concept launches. The response to the Exalt’s design and technology could shape Peugeot’s approach to future saloons and coupes, both in Asia and worldwide.
What Comes Next?
Further details, including interior photographs and a full technical breakdown, are expected to be announced at the Beijing show on 20 April 2014. Until then, the Exalt remains one of the most intriguing concept cars to be revealed in the run-up to the event. Peugeot enthusiasts and industry watchers alike will be looking for clues about the brand’s next steps in design, materials, and hybrid technology.
For those interested in other notable concept debuts at Beijing, see the Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept and Citroën Numéro 9 Concept, both of which highlight the growing influence of the Chinese market on global automotive trends. The Exalt Concept demonstrates Peugeot’s ongoing commitment to innovative design and electrified powertrains. While not destined for production in its current form, its influence could be seen in Peugeot’s next generation of premium vehicles.
