Peugeot Polygon Concept previews the radical next Peugeot 208

We already knew that the next-generation Peugeot 208, due to be unveiled next year, was set to bring substantial changes.

It will probably be the first Stellantis model to debut the new STLA Small platform, which has been designed primarily for electric vehicles while remaining adaptable for combustion powertrains. Major technological introductions have also been confirmed, including steering with no physical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels (steer-by-wire).

STLA Small sets the direction for the next Peugeot 208

It was also known that the third-generation 208 would be previewed by a concept, although few would have expected something quite so radical. The sole image released of the Peugeot Polygon Concept sends an unmistakable message: a complete break from the past.

Visually, it appears to have inherited nothing from the current 208 - or indeed from any Peugeot currently on sale - whether in its silhouette, proportions or styling details.

Even allowing for the fact that much of what is seen on this concept will be “watered down” by the time the production model arrives, the third-generation 208 will mark the beginning of a new era for Peugeot design.

Peugeot Polygon Concept adopts a radically new design

It features a very short front end, while the windscreen reaches down to above the front axle, giving the Polygon an MPV-like profile. Aerodynamics have clearly carried considerable weight in shaping certain surfaces and components, while also lending this concept a sophisticated, futuristic appearance.

An equally radical interior

The single image of the Polygon Concept - which will be fully unveiled on 12 November - also offers a glimpse of an interior that is set to be just as radical as its exterior.

One of its key features will be the debut of the Hypersquare steering wheel, first seen on the 2023 Inception concept. Rectangular in shape, it should be able to move from full lock in one direction to full lock in the other in less than one turn, thanks to the lack of a physical link to the wheels.

There is also an interesting coincidence in the fact that the new 208 will introduce the next chapter of the i-Cockpit story. The first 208, launched in 2012, debuted the solution that has defined the interior of every Peugeot since - and which still divides opinion today.

Speaking to Autocar, Peugeot chief executive Alain Favey said that, alongside the Hypersquare, the Polygon Concept would feature a “floating” 21-inch display, apparently following the format of the 3008’s curved panel. This is not, however, visible in the image that has been released.

Full reveal is close

The Peugeot Polygon Concept is scheduled to receive its full unveiling on 12 November at 12:00 on the brand’s YouTube channel.

Following the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo - which we have already seen in person - the Peugeot Polygon Concept provides clear indications that Stellantis’ next generation of compact B-segment models, based on the new STLA Small platform, will be more visually daring and more technologically advanced.