Peugeot facelifts 2008 SUV

Peugeot has facelifted its 2008 SUV.

Launched in 2013, the new frontal appearance now takes on an even more ‘assertive, powerful and appealing SUV design’ according to the French company. Its wheel arch extensions (from Allure level), new vertical front grille and scuff plates (from Allure level) ‘confirm its robustness’. The new vertical multi-faceted front grille features the Peugeot lion at the centre which Peugeot says gives a dynamic and attractive appearance. This style approach continues from the grille over the bonnet and onto the roof with roof bars and spoiler completing the new profile. Black and chrome headlamps and 3D LED rear lights with 3-claw design 'illustrate the embedded technology from the outside'.

The new Ultimate Red colour further ‘epitomises the power and desirability’ of the new 2008. The Access, Active and Allure levels are complemented by the new ‘GT Line’ model. This trim level is already popular on other Peugeot models (208, 308 and 508), and adds a sporty theme with a red/black coloured interior theme and is consistent with the brand's move up market strategy.

The Peugeot i-Cockpit is unique to Peugeot and ‘embodies the driving characteristics of the Peugeot 2008’ - being ‘agile, intuitive and safe’. The compact sports steering wheel offers precise steering and improved manoeuvrability while the 7” multifunction colour touch screen puts all the functionality at your fingertips. In addition, the head-up instrument panel allows driver information to be accessed without taking the eyes off the road.

Grip Control - an adapted traction system - gives the 2008 its versatility on all types of terrain. It is combined with Mud & Snow (all-Season) certified winter tyres. Peugeot 2008 is equipped with MirrorScreen, based on MirrorLink and Apple Carplay, along with the reversing camera, Active City Brake and Park Assist - a rarity in this segment.

The petrol range of the new 2008 includes a choice of five engines while the Diesel line-up includes three engines, all of them with CO2 emissions at less than 100g/km.

Pricing has yet to be confirmed for the faceifted model, with the revamped 2008 set to go on sale this summer.

Peugeot Traveller set for Geneva debut

Peugeot’s new Traveller MPV is set to make its world debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

The Traveller’s assertive design exudes strength and elegance, says Peugeot, while introducing features of the brand's SUV and car range to the MPV segment.

Sitting on a new chassis, adapted from the ‘Efficient Modular Platform 2’ (EMP2), the Traveller will also be targeted at the VIP shuttle sector with the promise of quality, efficiency and best-in-class fuel consumption.

Its Euro 6 BlueHDi engines are equipped with an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) pollution control system upstream of the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). These combine driving enjoyment and efficient performance, says Peugeot, offering an output of up to 180hp and peak torque of 400Nm, and average CO2 emission levels across the range of 140g/km.

The Traveller is available in multiple configurations with seating for up to 9 occupants and has already been awarded a top 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety tests.

Maxime Picat, Managing Director at Peugeot, said: “The Peugeot Traveller fully applies the brand’s expansion strategy by positioning us on the growth sectors of the MPV and VIP Shuttle. Through its innovative design, the Peugeot Traveller gives a new dimension to Peugeot’s upmarket shift.”

Peugeot wins 2016 Dakar Rally

Peugeot has won the 2016 Dakar Rally.

The Peugeot 2008 DKRs claimed nine stage wins out of a possible 12, including seven one-twos and two one-two-threes.

This French marque triumphed at only its second participation in South America with a total of three Peugeot 2008 DKRs reaching the finish ramp. The duo of Stephane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret in the number 302 Peugeot 2008 DKR called upon all of their experience to seal another win at the finish ramp in Rosario. This is not only their sixth win together, but the 12th win in total for Peterhansel – a six-time Dakar motorbike winner – 25 years after his debut triumph.

With a 9500-kilometre route in two weeks through Argentina and Bolivia, taking in extremes of weather and altitudes that peaked at 4800 metres, Team Peugeot Total took on a challenge with a rather accomplished line-up. The crews of Stephane Peterhansel/Jean-Paul Cottret, Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz and Cyril Despres/David Castera have 17 Dakar victories between them and were joined by nine-time world rally champions Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, making their debut on the event.

Peugeot says its engineers learned several valuable lessons during their first participation in South America last year, and worked non-stop ever since to improve the car. Lower, wider, longer and more powerful, the new 2008 DKR kept faith with its two-wheel drive configuration against the traditional 4x4s.

During the first week Peugeot occupied the top three places, thanks to six one-twos and two one-two-threes on the six stages run. The second week of the rally offered a more varied route, taking in an increased amount of off-piste action and an itinerary through the dunes. Through this hazard-strewn terrain, both Sebastien Loeb and Carlos Sainz bid farewell to their hopes of victory, because of a roll and a mechanical breakage on stage 10 respectively. Cyril Despres had already been delayed on stage five with a turbo problem, so it was Stephane Peterhansel who emerged as Team Peugeot Total’s main contender for victory.

The Frenchman won a crucial stage through the famous Fiambala dunes, and then seized the advantage on the 10th of 13 stages, with a cushion of one hour at the head of the field. He then just had to manage that advantage all the way to the finish.

Stephane Peterhansel (driver of the winning Peugeot 2008 DKR) said: “This is a huge satisfaction for us. Before the start, a result like this was far from guaranteed. My feeling was that the team was still a bit young, but in fact everything came together extremely well. We had the nice surprise of seeing that our car was extremely competitive throughout the WRC-style stages. I just tried to stay in touch during those days, knowing that Carlos and Seb were quicker than me. We drove a clean rally with one day of maximum attack, and then we found ourselves in the lead with a very comfortable margin: 50 minutes with just three days to go. After that, it was just a question of looking after that gap as intelligently as possible. When I was competing on my very first Dakars as a bike rider, I dreamed of one day driving for Peugeot. To have joined the team and won with them is a massive source of satisfaction for me. “

Jean-Paul Cottret (co-driver of the winning Peugeot 2008 DKR) added: “We’re delighted to have brought this Peugeot 2008 DKR to the top step of the podium. It’s a great reward for the whole team, which has worked so hard for two years. After a year of learning, we’ve now achieved victory. It’s a great result, so a massive thanks to everyone.”

Peugeot reveals 308 GTi pricing and spec

Peugeot reveals 308 GTi pricing and spec

Peugeot reveals 308 GTi pricing and spec

Peugeot reveals 308 GTi pricing and spec

Peugeot reveals 308 GTi pricing and spec

Peugeot's GTi badge is returning to the medium car segment for the first time since the 1990s.

The high-end performance 308 GTi is designed with the 'enthusiastic driver' in mind, and will cost from £26,555 OTR.

Extensively developed by Peugeot SPORT - the brand's in-house tuning team - the hot hatch offers a new interpretation of the 308's exterior design, 'enhanced sports-oriented interior detailing and an unparalleled driving experience', according to the French manufacturer.

Driven by 'the most-powerful engine of its size', the 1.6-litre THP petrol engine with Stop&Start (S&S) technology is available in two power outputs - 250hp and 270hp. With a limited top speed of 155mph, the engines can return CO2 emissions of 139g/km and Combined Cycle fuel economy of 47.0mpg.

Both models weigh in at 1205kg, enabling the 308 GTi 250 to sprint to 62mph in 6.2 seconds, with a power-to-weight ratio of 4.82kg/hp. The 308 GTi 270 reaches 62mph in 6.0 seconds flat.

Key to the appeal of the 270 GTi, says Peugeot, is the Torsen limited-slip differential, fitted as standard. Designed to improve cornering by channeling the torque to the wheel with the greatest traction, it also makes it possible to drive faster around corners and enhance grip and handling.

The 270 GTi is also equipped with 2.3kg lighter 19" 'Carbone' lightweight alloy wheels shod with the latest Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. The design showcases the highly-capable 380mm ventilated front brake discs with solid red four-piston Peugeot SPORT signature calipers.

The new model includes 'purposeful new styling' sitting 11mm lower to the ground than its siblings, an aggressive new front and rear design and six distinctive exterior colours. For the most eye-catching look a 'Coupe Franche' two-tone design is exclusive to the 308 GTi 270, contrasting Ultimate Red with Nera Black.

The interior has been designed to complement the GTi's exterior, emphasising its sporting credentials. The door sill carries the Peugeot SPORT and GTi signature, while the foot pedals, foot rest and gear knob are finished in aluminum. Red stitching features on the upholstery, door panels, gear lever and floor mats. The GTi 270 features Peugeot SPORT race-inspired seats, upholstered in leather effect and Alcantara, which provide enhanced lateral support.

The compact steering wheel provides natural grip and 'precise direction'. It features full-grain leather with a GTi logo at the base and a red centring mark at the top. The head-up display instrument panel read-outs has a chequered backdrop, and a GTi greets the driver on start-up. A 9.7" centrally mounted touch-screen forms part of the instrument panel, with its Redline theme adding a final touch of flair to the interior.

Standard equipment includes a Driver Sport Pack, which allows owners to 'ramp up the high-octane feel'. Pressing the Sport button on the centre console switches the display colour from white to red, and shows additional information on the central read-out. It also enhances engine noise growl and changes the accelerator pedal mapping.

Also standard is red 'Peugeot' lettering on the grille, sports side skirts, new twin exhaust system with black diffuser, GTi badging, full LED headlamps, front LED sequential indicators, reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, Peugeot Open & Go (keyless entry & push button start), satellite navigation and DAB digital radio. The GTi 250 has 18-inch 'Diamant' alloy wheels while the GTi 270 the larger 19" 'Carbone' lightweight alloy wheels.

The Peugeot 308 GTi 250 is priced at £26,555 on the road, while the Peugeot 308 GTi 270 (which has more power, the Torsen differential, 19" wheels, larger front brakes and sports seats) is priced at £28,155. The Coupe Franche with Ultimate Red / Nera Black paint finish (exclusive to the GTi 270 model only) is £1,300.

Now Teens can Just Add Fuel too

Now Teens can Just Add Fuel too

Now Teens can Just Add Fuel too

Now Teens can Just Add Fuel too

Now Teens can Just Add Fuel too

Peugeot's fixed-cost motoring package, Just Add Fuel, is now available to teenage drivers.

Since launch in July 2010, over 27,000 UK drivers have taken advantage of Just Add Fuel but it has only previously been available to drivers aged 21 or older.

Now, thanks to the use of advanced telematics technology, younger drivers aged 18-20 choosing the Peugeot 108, can also benefit from the 3-year package which offers a single monthly payment to cover all motoring costs, including insurance, servicing, road fund licence (£0 on the Peugeot 108), and roadside assistance.

Neil Moscrop, Peugeot Brand Director commented: "Just Add Fuel is recognised as the most significant innovation in vehicle retailing for a number of years. Now we can widen its appeal even further, allowing a broader spectrum of drivers to experience the thrill of owning a new Peugeot car."

Just Add Fuel for those aged 18-20 is only available to Peugeot 108 buyers and is priced from £248 rental per month. A discreet plug-in telematics device is sent to customers immediately after they take delivery of their car and attaches to the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) port under the steering wheel. It's a simple installation but Peugeot Dealers will be happy to help if required.

Via satellite tracking, it stores and sends data on the vehicle's speed, acceleration, deceleration and lateral G-forces to assess the customer's driving style and rate each journey made, on a scale from 1-100. 

Customers will have access to an online portal where they can review their driving activity. This is also regularly monitored by the insurer and an aggregate score awarded.

Feedback is provided to assist the customer in improving the score if necessary, but if it falls below an agreed threshold, the driver will receive a warning. Four warnings a year will result in the insurance policy being cancelled and may also reduce the number of insurance products available to the customer, and/or increase the premiums they are quoted.

Terms and conditions apply, including a requirement for a full UK driving licence, permanent UK residency and no 'fault' insurance claims. 

Just Add Fuel with telematics is also available to Peugeot 108 buyers aged 21-75 who do not have two years' No Claims Discount, or have held a full UK driver's licence for less than two years.

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot reveals new 2008 Urban Cross edition

Peugeot has added a new special edition to its 2008 Crossover line-up - the 2008 Urban Cross.

Based on the Active badge level, but benefitting from an enhanced specification, the Urban Cross is available in either the 1.2-litre PureTech 110hp S&S with 108g/km of CO2 or 1.6-litre BlueHDi 100hp S&S with 95g/km of CO2 emissions.

The main features on the special edition are the exterior and interior styling; noticeably a new and 'exclusive' metallic Emerald paint colour. The Urban Cross also features 17" alloy wheels and Grip Control as standard, along with rear Parking Aid and electric, heated and black, folding door mirrors. The premium trim, with emerald stitching, is complemented by the leather steering wheel and gearknob, with emerald contrast stitching.

The Peugeot 2008 Urban Cross is available to order now, priced from £16,495 OTR.