Peugeot 3008 Production Set for China in 2012
Peugeot confirmed plans to start local production of the 3008 compact SUV in China from 2012, targeting a growing market but facing strong competition from established rivals.
Peugeot will begin producing the 3008 compact SUV in China from 2012, as part of its efforts to expand local manufacturing and compete more directly with established rivals in the Chinese market. The move follows the model’s launch in China earlier in 2011, with Peugeot seeking to boost its presence in the world’s largest car market.
The 3008 was first shown officially at the Geneva Motor Show, where its blend of MPV and compact crossover styling attracted attention. Peugeot’s decision to manufacture the 3008 in China reflects the growing importance of local production for international brands, as import duties and logistics costs make imported vehicles less competitive on price. Chinese buyers had access to the 3008 from earlier in 2011, but local assembly is expected to make the model more accessible and potentially improve sales volumes.
Engine options and pricing for China
Chinese customers are offered the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the entry point, with a base price of 240,000 RMB for the standard model. This places the 3008 above key rivals such as the Honda CR-V, which undercuts Peugeot’s SUV by around 10,000 RMB. On the European market, the 3008 is available with a wider range of nine engines, from the 1.6 VTi petrol with 120hp and 160Nm, up to the 2.0 HDi diesel producing 163hp and 340Nm, paired with an automatic gearbox. It is not clear whether the full European engine line-up will be offered in China, but the focus appears to be on petrol units for local buyers.
Local manufacturing and market strategy
Peugeot has not named the exact Chinese plant where the 3008 will be built, but production is scheduled for 2012. Local assembly is expected to help Peugeot reduce costs and respond more quickly to changing market demands. The 3008 enters a crowded segment, with SUVs and crossovers in high demand among Chinese buyers. Peugeot’s strategy mirrors moves by other global manufacturers, who have increased localisation to improve competitiveness in China.
The 3008 faces strong competition from established models like the Honda CR-V, which is already popular and priced more aggressively. Peugeot’s challenge will be to persuade buyers to pay a premium for its crossover, which offers European styling and a distinctive blend of MPV and SUV features. The company has not released sales targets for the Chinese-built 3008, but the move signals a long-term commitment to local production in the region.
What it means for buyers and Peugeot
For Chinese buyers, local production of the 3008 should mean improved availability and potentially lower prices in the longer term, as Peugeot reduces import costs. For Peugeot, assembling the 3008 in China is a key step in its broader strategy to expand its footprint in Asia and compete with rivals who have already established strong local manufacturing operations. The company will need to balance pricing, specification and local tastes to gain ground in a segment dominated by Japanese and domestic brands.
