Peugeot is trying their very hardest to get us excited about yet another new crossover SUV with their QUARTZ concept for the Paris Auto Show. They threw down a fair effort alright– the thing looks like it could be Batman's off-road race car.
The QUARTZ is based on the French automaker's EMP2 platform, used by their breadwinning economy car the 308. It has a composite structure and panels bonded together "for stiffness," a center console made largely of basalt because sure, and scissor doors because why not.
Seats and soft surfaces will be covered in a "digitally woven textile," made with polyester fibre from recycled plastic water bottles.
QUARTZ is powered by a 270 hp 1.6 gas engine, and two 85kW electric motors. The front drives the front axles and provides extra power between gear changes for a smoother acceleration experience, the rear motor supplements the gas engine's output and charges the 400 volt battery.
Not that any of that is of particular consequence on a concept this wild that will not see mass production, but sure is one fierce looking grocery getter. Hell, it looks awesome!
The whole package reminds me of a combination Audi Sport Quattro concept, Lexus NX, just a dash of Isuzu VehiCross, and a grille-to-headlight relationship that looks vaguely modern-Jaguarish.
Then again, maybe I just like it because it reminds me of MegaRace. What do you see in this thing?
Images: Peugeot