French carmaker Peugeot is set to re-enter the Indian car market soon, with its new stylish 508 saloon at the Auto Expo which has already made its international debut two years ago. The company claims that the 508 saloon will be the flagship model with its quirky styling. It should be as spacious as the Honda Accord and given its classy styling, space and diesel powerplant option, it should be a great model for Peugeot to start with.
The spacious Peugeot 508 will be powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine. Along with the other, the Peugeot 3008 crossover is also shown at the Peugeot stall which is a blending of SUV and MPV. The 3008 provides a Multiflex interior in which the seats can be fold in all the way enabling a flat loading space. Peugeot’s 3008 HYbrid4 is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine which delivers 200bhp and the diesel engine of the car generates 163bhp, the world’s first diesel hybrid that goes on sale in Europe next year.
Sharing floor space with the two cars was the RCZ sports coupe. The 2+2 coupe’s highlight is definitely the heavily sloping, curvy ‘double-bubble roof which gives it a sporty air. It’s powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine in different states of tune making up to 200bhp. A diesel is also available which produces 163bhp.
The show-stealer though was the Le Mans-winning 908 race car. The 2009 race winner is powered by a twin-turbo 3.7-litre diesel engine. While it may not sound much, the engine is capable of producing 550bhp.
Peugeot are also setting up a strong dealer network and they are looking to set up dealerships in around 15 cities. This will help them cater to a wider customer base across the country. The company has made a substantial investment of Rs 4000-crore for its upcoming plant in Gujarat.
Also see – 2012 Peugeot 208 unveiled, we wish would come to India
