We informed you earlier that French automaker, Groupe PSA will officially enter in the Indian market in 2019. The company will locally develop India-centric products at its Chennai based production plant. According to the latest media report, Peugeot is likely to adopt a top-down approach for India by launching an imported Citroen model – an SUV – in 2019. The new model could be launched to build brand’s image before entering into mass-volume segments.
The report further suggests that Peugeot is planning to import Citroen C84 or Citroen C5-Aircross in India. The new model will be imported as a CKD unit and is likely to be assembled at the company’s Chennai factory. However, Groupe Peugeot is yet to make an official announcement on the same.
Citroen C5 AirCross Image Gallery
The premium 5-seater SUV will challenge the likes of Jeep Compass, Hyundai Tucson and the upcoming Skoda Karoq. Peugeot is also considering setting up five ‘Destination’ or ‘Experience Stores’ across major cities to tell Indian customers about the brand. The company plans 80-100 dealerships by 2021-22. Also See – Peugeot 208 Hatchback Spotted In India
Besides this premium SUV, Peugeot is working on a couple of compact SUVs and a sedan for the Indian market. The new models will be designed with the motto of ‘Be Indians in India’. Adding to it, Peugeot has also hired TCS to design and develop products for Indian buyers at local levels of costs.
The company will also launch a sub-4 meter SUV to challenge the likes of Tata Nexon, Maruti Vitara Brezza and Ford EcoSport. There will also be a premium hatchback with SUV-like design cues to take on the Hyundai Elite i20 and Maruti Baleno, and a mid-size sedan to rival Honda City and Hyundai Verna.
