No, the twist isn't that it's getting a 6.0-litre V12 and there won't be a diesel version, but that the only 4x4 version of this crossover won't come until 2011 - and is a pretty clever little system.
Peugeot's 'Hybrid 4' drivetrain currently still in development, but promised to debut in the 3008, uses an electric motor mounted at the back to drive the rear wheels, while a diesel engine drives the front. They aren't connected mechanically, saving weight and space, but the system provides all the traction associated with a traditional 4x4. A 163bhp 2.0-litre HDi engine combines with a 37bhp electric motor for 200bhp performance, yet emissions of only 109g/km and consumption of 68.9mpg. That's almost unbelievable, quite frankly.
Until then, however, the whole thing is a lot more predictable in a 'Peugeot's Qashqai' sort of way. All the launch versions will be front-wheel drive, but will get some semblance of off-road ability thanks to a clever traction control system called 'Grip Control' and a limited-slip differential. Power will come from a pair of 2.0-litre diesel units and four 1.6-litre petrol engines mated to five- and six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes, with power outputs ranging from 110bhp to 160bhp - so there's plenty of choice.
And because Peugeot is clearly trying to get a slice of the ever more lucrative 'posh hatchback' market (aka the urban crossover niche), the cabin isn't just an augmented 308's - it's had an obvious overhaul and the quality is improved. The dash-mounted rocker switches are particularly aesthetically pleasing, and Peugeot says there'll be abundant soft touch plastics.
It follows that some impressive kit will be available too. Added to a cavernous cabin and the practicality of a split tailgate are the usual leather, satnav, phone prep, Xenon headlamps and panoramic sunroof options, but you can also specify a head up display and a distance alert system to prevent front-to-rear collisions. Specify automatic air conditioning and you'll get an air quality monitor too - so you'll never need to use your nose in your car again.
Peugeot hasn't said how much it's going to cost yet, but it ill hit showrooms at the end of this year.
Mark Nichol - 15 Jan 2009