The Peugeot SR1 hybrid 2+1 seater roadster concept that will be displayed for the first time at the upcoming 2010 Geneva Salon in March marks the stylistic design trends for the brand's future models.

This concept car showcases the firm's new design language that abandons the chunky shapes and the much criticized gaping-mouth grille of the current Peugeots in favor of more elegant and sharper looks that hark back to the Pininfarina-era Pugs. On a closer look, it bears a passing resemblance to Aston Martin's Vantage V8.

The SR1's interior is pure concept, though we might see the driver-orientated center console making its way into Peugeot's future production models. The roadster can seat up to three in a 2+1 layout with the rear seat mounted centrally.

The roadster is powered by Peugeot's HYbrid4 technology, which will be available in the company's 3008 crossover from 2011. A front-mounted 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a power output of 218 bhp is combined with a rear electric motor developing 95 bhp. Such figures sound like ingredients for sporty performance to me. Peugeot states that in electric mode only, the SR1 consumes only 4.9L of petrol per 100km and Carbon Dioxide emission level is at an environmentally caring 119 g/km.

I can't wait to see the photos of the actual model in 2 months' time. It looks like pure driving fun need not cost the Earth!