Peugeot has released the first pics and details of its updated 508 sedan and wagon, which will make their first public appearances at the Moscow and Chengdu motor shows in August, followed by the Paris motor show in October.
The newcomer is due on sale here in March next year, with local pricing and spec levels to be announced closer to the launch date.
Although not dramatically changed from the original 508 that went on sale here in 2011, the new model has been subtly tweaked and enhanced in line with the company's bid to push the vehicle ever so slightly upmarket.
Visually, the 2015 model is distinguishable by its new grille, which is more vertical than before and features a Peugeot lion logo at its centre (moving down from its former location on the bonnet).
The headlight cluster has also been reprofiled and features a new visual signature – a 'comma' on the sedan and wagon and 'claws' on the RXH. The daytime running lamps, direction indicators and front foglights are also LED units that embody a more high-tech theme than the lights on the outgoing model.
Also as part of Peugeot's drive to position the '8' suffixed models at the top of the range, the bonnet has been redesigned to make it more horizontal for a statelier appearance.
Out back, the rear bumper and taillights have also been redesigned to make them more horizontal than previously, and they embody the three claws that Peugeot is increasingly using to endow its cars with a distinct identity.
Inside, there are better quality trim materials and a seven-inch touch screen that provides controls for many of the vehicle's functions. As a result, the central panel now has fewer buttons, while the centre console includes a new closed-storage box.
There's also a new Head-Up Display with driving and navigation information in colour, viewed in a retractable smoked viewing screen.
Engine choices will include a new Euro 6-compliant 1.6-litre THP 165 unit that replaces the Euro 5-compliant THP 156. The new 121kW motor will be offered in Europe with a six-speed manual or auto transmission, but we're likely to get only the latter here.
Also on the menu is the 110kW 2.0-litre BlueHDi 150 turbo-diesel, which has CO2 emissions of just 105g/km, claimed to be the best of any vehicle in its class.
Similarly, the new 132kW 2.0-litre BlueHDi 180 engine has CO2 emissions of just 111g/km, which Peugeot claims constitutes one of the best combinations of power and fuel consumption in the segment.
Although Peugeot is just on the verge of rolling out its facelifted 508, work has already commenced on the next-gen replacement, which will reportedly be offered in two distinct bodystyles.
Taking a leaf out of Mercedes-Benz's textbook with the E-Class and coupe-like CLS, Peugeot plans to offer a space/comfort-focused model and a slinky, sporty derivative.
"We are considering two body styles, one more dynamic, one more spacious and comfortable. But we are seeing how the market goes," company boss Maxime Picat was quoted as saying by UK's Autocar.
Another source told Autocar that one version of the next 508 could adopt the rakish lines of the recently revealed Peugeot Exalt concept, adding that there would also be a more conventional sedan to cater to the Chinese market.