PAN Nigeria shines with its new improved Peugeot 308 at the just concluded 33rd Kaduna International Trade Fair
Going by developments at the just concluded Kaduna International Trade Fair, better days are certainly here for PAN Nigeria, a local automobile assembly plant and lovers of its Peugeot brand. Although it had the Changan Alsvin, the latest of its products on display, the new improved Peugeot 308 was the cynosure of all eyes at the PAN stand.
From its floating grille, to a more refined and smaller central air intake, fewer accentuating lines on the body for improved aerodynamics and the LED daytime running lights which gives it a premium look, the new Peugeot 308 is certainly elegant. Its logo, the lion symbol, sits on a black enamel base with a chrome bead. The car, which comes in two variants, Hatchback and Station wagon, has two models: coz-i and trend-i. Both are available in 1.6-litre direct-injection turbo with six-speed automatic and manual transmission, producing 115 kilowatts, kw, of power, and 240 Newton miles, Nm, of torque from 1,400 revolutions per minute, rpm. The 308 automatic transmission is also fuel efficient with a fuel consumption of just 7.4 litres/100 kilometres, km, and emissions of 171 grams/km, g/km; while the manual uses 6.6 litres/100km and emits 153 g/km.
The dashboard of the 308 is covered with a soft material and faux metal highlights were used on the trim to give the car a premium outlook. The seats, either upholstery or leather, are built for maximum comfort. Other features include one-touch electric windows with anti-pinch electronic parking assistance for the rear, heated folding door mirrors, location of car via an audible ‘plip,’ quality audio system with six speakers and Bluetooth phone and music streaming, dual zone climate control with air-conditioned glove box, pollen and charcoal filters, auto on headlights and wipers as well as auto-dimming rear vision mirror.
Peugeot 308 comes standard with a full active and passive safety kit, including six airbags and electronic stability control. This, according to Musa Bashir, head, corporate communications, PAN Nigeria, is additional to the use of high-grade steel in strategic areas, giving the vehicle a rigid structure and excellent road handling, making it capable able to absorb a severe impact.
After test-driving the vehicle, Idris Mohammed, a visitor to the PAN Nigeria stand, could not hide his feelings about the 308. According to him, he is in love with the vehicle not only for its performance, but also for its roomy interior, considering that passengers in the back seat will also be very comfortable.
And with a starting price of N3.45 million, the 308 is further strengthening the Peugeot brand in the country through modern aesthetics and competitive pricing.
