By Theodore Opara

Renowned French car maker, Peugeot, is not known for making sport utility vehicles SUVs. It is a master, when it comes to the production of sedans and estates.  Remember the 404, 504 and 505 sedans and estates. They were in a class of their own during their time. They were preferred models for car buyers in the 70’s and 80’s, and early 1990’s.

•Peugeot 4008

But times have changed and Peugeot changed with time. Peugeot has dropped the old workhorse and replaced them with trendy and modern ones with a lot of innovations and hi-techs.

Peugeot has taken advantage of the current trend in the automobile industry whereby SUVs have become the way forward to launch itself into the  category. The high cost of petrol in Nigeria makes a car like 4008 the car to beat.

The launch of the 4008, however, marks yet another beginning for Peugeot in the automobile world, especially at a  time when even luxury automakers are veering into SUV production.  Bentley,  Jaguar,  Porsche, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz had all launched themselves into this segment to tell you how important the SUV has become.

Only an unserious car maker would ignore this car segment and Peugeot has cashed into this segment with the 4008, an SUV that combines performance with comfort like typical luxury sedans.

Typical luxury sedans

Having established itself as one of the leading automobile makers in the world, Peugeot has brought its many years of experience to bear on the new 4008 sport utility vehicle. The 4008 adopts a clearly distinctive style. It asserts a personality with audacious lines and a genuine all-terrain attitude that is both expressive and dynamic.

Compact and solid, the Peugeot 4008 is an off-road vehicle with a strong personality. It combines outstanding handling with comfort, beside many of modern features. The versatility, according to Peugeot, was achieved through a high quality suspension system and a range of transmission mode.

Peugeot did not build the 4008 like a new comer in this segment. It masterfully crafted it to take any tough task. The 4×4 mode of the 4008 overcomes every terrain when the need arises, while the two-wheel drive is at home with dry tarmac road.

In poor road like sandy or muddy road, the 4WD lock mode tackles the road with ease. The 4008 is available with a 2.0 litre engine, which delivers 150 brake-horse power. This engine is marched with a continuously variable automatic transmission, CVT, combined with steering wheel paddle-shift controls for driving pleasure.

The adventurous personality of the 4008 comes hand-in-hand with an interior that is enhanced by the quality of the trim and the materials used, such as chrome. Other details like the LED lighting on the side of the glass panoramic roof contribute to the perceive quality of  the interior. The 4008 is fitted with efficient and practical equipment, devised for occupants pleasures, safety and driving comfort.

For instance, with the 4008, the traditional key has been replaced by an electronic recognition system that simplifies using the 4008. With the identifier still in your pocket or hand-bag, you can access your 4008, start it, and stop it simply by pressing the button.

The vehicle can be locked again simply by pressing the button on the front door handle or boot as you leave. There is generous legroom and headroom for all occupants. The 4008 also offers occupants comforts worthy of the finest saloon cars: numerous storage comportments, automatic air conditioning, a refrigerated glove box, electric windows, quality sound system among other features.