A few years ago, America was treated to the return of FIAT to its automotive marketplace. And despite questionable product quality, dealer issues, and not being the most requested or well-received comeback of the ages (save that enthusiasm for Pontiac someday. Maybe... We hope...), FIAT has been able to carve themselves out a little niche position within the modern-day American mind and market. Now, could yet ANOTHER essentially forgotten brand in the U.S. be gearing up to make a possible resurgence into the American auto industry? What chances of success do they possibly have? Today on Adam's Autos: We learn more!
Striking Back
So what other automotive brand have we not seen on our roads in almost 30 years?
If you answered Peugeot, pat yourself on the back! Last seen in the U.S. in 1991, Peugeot was more prominent in the 1980's here due to some of their diesel powered cars, like the 504. Given FIAT's rather ho-hum re-entrance into the American auto industry, its logical that other brands may also be looking to capture a little chunk of the market share their Italian rival has failed to thus far. And just how do they plan to accomplish this. Peugeot has laid out a very specific, calculated plan as to just how they intend to gradually reappear on American roadways.
Sharing Is Caring!
In order to garner American interest in their products again, rather than simply jumping right back into the fire like FIAT did, Peugeot plans to start supplying cars to car sharing programs like Zipcar for use. This will allow the brand to reestablish itself, its products, and design language again with buyers before setting up shop for the long haul. And of course, there won't be a full lineup starting out. But here's a few models that we may see starting out:
Peugeot 2008 Crossway
Don't let the name confuse you. 2008 is not the year of this car, but rather an actual part of its name. The Crossway was redesigned for the 2016 model year, and would seek to compete in the now extremely popular subcompact crossover segment in the United States. Its a few inches shorter than the new Jeep Renegade for good perspective, and has roughly six different engine options in France. The primary 1.2 liter four cylinder that powers it would likely be too weak for American roadways, so a 1.6 liter engine that's used in other Peugeot products could likely be used in U.S.-bound Crossways instead. Or maybe Peugeot will develop a engine that's specific to our market, who knows? Pricing for the 2008 Crossway starts at roughly 22,000 Euro ($25,000 USD). Actual U.S. varients could start closer to $20,000 after fully adjusting for price differences and taxes.
Peugeot Expert Tepee
A potential direct competitor to the Ford Transit Connect, the Expert Tepee can be configured to seat up to seven passengers. Its about the same length as the Transit Connect, and an extended version is available too that adds about 12 inches of cargo space in back. However, this XL model may be considered too long for our roadways or most car sharing services. Power would likely come from the aforementioned 1.6 liter four cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic, and pricing starts at 16,000 Euro ($18,000 USD).
So When?
No clues yet on when Peugeot will make their presence known again in the U.S., but I doubt it'll be long given we have official word that these plans are on the table. I personally like the looks of the Crossway, and it'll be interesting to have yet another brand in the mix that decided to take another crack the the American auto industry. Since FIAT's reception has been relatively lukewarm, it honestly could go either way. Americans could love these new Peugeots, or reject them. Time will tell.
What do you think? Are you looking forward to Peugeot's potential return to American roads? Comment you thoughts, and stay tuned to Adam's Autos for any further developments. ROLL ON!
Sharing Is Caring!
In order to garner American interest in their products again, rather than simply jumping right back into the fire like FIAT did, Peugeot plans to start supplying cars to car sharing programs like Zipcar for use. This will allow the brand to reestablish itself, its products, and design language again with buyers before setting up shop for the long haul. And of course, there won't be a full lineup starting out. But here's a few models that we may see starting out:
Peugeot 2008 Crossway
Peugeot Expert Tepee
So When?
No clues yet on when Peugeot will make their presence known again in the U.S., but I doubt it'll be long given we have official word that these plans are on the table. I personally like the looks of the Crossway, and it'll be interesting to have yet another brand in the mix that decided to take another crack the the American auto industry. Since FIAT's reception has been relatively lukewarm, it honestly could go either way. Americans could love these new Peugeots, or reject them. Time will tell.
What do you think? Are you looking forward to Peugeot's potential return to American roads? Comment you thoughts, and stay tuned to Adam's Autos for any further developments. ROLL ON!
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