AIMS: Peugeot 2008 diesel unlikely
2008 compact SUV confirmed for Oz, but diesel-powered models may not make the cutAustralia is gearing up for something of a compact SUV renaissance, and Peugeot has announced that it is set to capitalise on this trend with confirmation it will bring its new 2008 to market late next year (2013).
The 2008 will go on sale alongside models that include the Nissan Juke, Holden Trax and Ford EcoSport, though engine choices may be a petrol-only affair.
The announcement was made shortly after the unveiling of the revised Peugeot RCZ at the Sydney motor show today. Peugeot Australia’s managing director Bill Gillespie told motoring.com.au that the premium price of diesel engines is a limiting factor.
“We’re certainly looking at petrol. These new petrol engines are so efficient, and as we’d have to charge a premium [for diesel] -- because the factory charge [us] a premium for diesel -- we’re not sure our customers would want to pay extra. Especially when you consider the efficiency you can get from a petrol,” explained Mr Gillespie.
With a range of engines at their disposal, Peugeot was unable to say just which units it would select for Australian-spec 2008s. Though Mr Gillespie said the 208 hatch was a good place to look.
“We’ll settle on something like we have with the 208. Something that’s fuel efficient and with low emissions. There’s a total of seven engines available to us,” he added.
With the 208 range featuring a choice of three- and four-cylinder petrol engines locally, that leaves 2008 with the option of a 60kW/118Nm 1.2-litre three-cylinder and 88kW/160Nm 1.6-litre four-cylinder.
And we might not have to wait that long to find out. Mr Gillespie said there’s a “slim chance” we could see a 2008 on the Peugeot stage at AIMS in Melbourne next year.
Production of Australian delivery Peugeot 2008s is slated for October next year with arrival expected sometime shortly thereafter.
Head to www.motoring.com.au for full 2012 AIMS photo gallery from the Australian International Motor Show
Latest news from the 2012 Australian International Motor Show at www.motoring.com.au
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