Blog Auto Review

The new Peugeot 301 is a clear illustration of the Marques internationalisation and demonstrates its desire to conquer new markets. It has been specifically designed to appeal to a wide customer base attracted by four-door saloons which are both accessible and present an enhanced level of status. In keeping with Peugeots desire to introduce cars for specific markets, the 301 is not intended for the UK market.

The Peugeot 301, which in time is expected to become one of the Marques best selling vehicles worldwide, is positioned at the heart of its segment. It offers modern styling and features that are caully adapted to fulfil the expectations of the different markets in which it will be sold.

The Peugeot 301 incorporates the latest stylistic codes of the Marque offering a modern design and character which inspires emotion and gives an impression of strength. Furthermore, the design of this new car was guided at every stage by the desire to be the best in class incorporating Peugeots highest quality criteria.

The Peugeot 301 was developed to adapt to all conditions of use, and extremes (hot countries, cold countries, and poor roads). With an overall length of 4.44 metres it sets itself apart with an optimised and generous structure which puts it a step ahead of the competition. So, it will have benchmark characteristics in its segment:

The range of latest generation petrol and diesel engines on the 301 is perfectly suited to the expectations of target markets, with power values ranging from 71 bhp to 115 bhp and manual, piloted or automatic gearboxes:

A symbol of modernity, the 301 theore will become the second car in the Peugeot range, after the 208, to benefit from the new range of 3 cylinder petrol engines (1.2 l VTi) which, due to their advanced technology, combine driving pleasure and reduced fuel consumption.

The Peugeot 301 incorporates modern comfort equipment (electronic air conditioning, MP3 audio system with Bluetooth hands-free kit and USB connection, remote opening of the boot, rear parking assistance, etc), all of which guarantee an excellent level of comfort on board.

A family vehicle that is both safe and reliable with great driving characteristics, these are elements that have already ensured the success of the Marque in many of the countries where the 301 will be sold. Indeed, Peugeot has been manufacturing motor vehicles for more than 100 years and has designed numerous saloons which have earned and continue to earn their place in motor vehicle history (404, 504, 305, 405, 406, 407, 408, and 508).

The new Peugeot 301, manufactured in Vigo (Spain), will have its world premiere at the 2012 Paris Motor Show in September. It will then go on sale from 1st November 2012 in Turkey then into Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Greece, The Middle East, Gulf and African States, as well as in certain Latin American markets.

Information Specification Modification Review 2011 Peugeot BB1
Without a doubt, the most popular vehicle at the ride and drive portion of the Challenge Bibendum in Rio de Janiero this week was Peugeots BB1 concept. Were not sure what aspect of the car caused the most interest, but the line to get into the undeniably quirky urban car was always long. Maybe it was just because people cant easily imagine why anyone would actually go out and build a car this bizarre. Maybe they wanted to see what happens when a scooter marries a car and has a child. Maybe its just that when you come face-to-face with a car this unusual, you just have to try and get inside the blister top. Whatever the reasons, we had to join the throng. Read on to find out what its like when you manage to get into the BB1 and take a spin around the parking lot.
The BB1 brief was to tackle all issues of the modern world faced by people on a daily basis in order to offer maximum versatility, a compact size; be dynamic and manoeuverable (3.5m turning circle).
To achieve all this, the Peugeot teams faced a real challenge – never before seen in the history of the automobile: accommodating four people in a car 2.5m long. This record use of interior space could potentially lead to a larger load capacity, even though its “compact” size gives it the ability to park in extremely tight spots – even perpendicular to the pavement.
To meet this challenge, the structure of the passenger compartment has drawn inspiration from two-wheeled vehicles in terms of ergonomics: the driver controls the vehicle by adopting a new driving position – more vertical than is usual. This is mainly made possible through the absence of floor pedals. The rear passenger is seated in tandem behind the driver. On the right-hand side, front and
rear passengers adopt the same position.
It is thanks to this original configuration for a four-wheel vehicle that the BB1 has such a totally original design. Access to the vehicle is through the inverted door opening mechanism, while boot access is through a tail board and a tailgate. The interior can be transformed as required to offer a load volume of 160 litres (with four occupants), rising to 855 litres (with just one person in the car).
 While the bubble is totally unexpected from the outside, sitting in the car it actually kind of works to counter the claustrophobic feeling the close seats create (see this photo for an example). It certainly feels big enough for four people in the city – something the current Smart Fortwo and Think City cannot claim – and were interested to see what Peugeot does with the production version (yes, there will be a production BB1; see below). Right now, riding in the BB1 provides the occupants with you a loud and rickety experience, something to be expected from an early prototype. In fact, there are only two BB1s in existence today. The version in Rio is the second model, and is nearly identical to the first, which is in France at the Peugeot luxury showroom in Paris. These models us scooter handlebars for steering, an iPhone to help the vehicle communicate with the outside but is not part of any internal services and a rear camera.
USER FRIENDLY CONNECTIVITY
As well as the openness and brightness brought by the large windows, the BB1 presents an extensive
set of interactive technologies. The colour display and the vehicle’s audio system provide an ideal setting for your “smartphone” functionalities: telephone, navigation, Internet access, radio, MP3… Just connect your device to the USB jack, or the 12V socket if necessary.
Universal and user-friendly, this system enables the BB1 to concentrate on essential services without multiple pieces of equipment, bringing extra safety to driving and saving considerable weight.
Similarly, the rear-view cameras remove the need for mirrors, optimising the width of the vehicle and improving its aerodynamics, while adding to the high-tech aspect of the interior.
Two original creative images have been produced for the BB1 concept by the artist Michel Serviteur. Portrayed around the driving position, they offer a new link with time and speed. A clock brings the interior to life by linking a colour to each period of the day; time goes by to the rhythm of the light to enhance the feeling of wellbeing.
In addition, there is a graphic animation which could replace the speedometer, finding its equilibrium at a steady speed but which moves again when that speed is interrupted.
 WITH ITS ALTRUISTIC CONCEPT
Thanks to its electric propulsion, the BB1 is an environmentally friendly vehicle par excellence and emits no loud noise outside the vehicle, and above all no pollutant emissions owing to the fact that it consumes no fossil fuels.
But this eco-responsibility isn’t limited to just driving.
At a standstill, the passenger compartment ventilation keeps operating in daylight thanks to the solar panels placed on the roof of the vehicle. This enables two functions: pre-ventilation of the interior and the trapping of pollutants and ultra-fine dust particles (μm), due to the use of high-performance filters and activated carbon. source:green.autoblog.com,www.zulva.com

I was given a chance to test out the Permanon and this was something set to be in between the Coating and then the contemporary wax, sealant or whatever .... what struck me though is that the ease of use and the glossiness of this product after using it .. and my pal concur with me after trying it (also letting me test it out on his new 508)

Head on for details: Permanon at Kenso Muse

A shot of his boot after permanon

Lovely gloss indeed

Sparkling wet

The Peugeot 508 RXH represents the new, up market positioned Peugeot. It sees the launch of an identity that combines the traditional designation of Peugeot models, incorporating the central zero, and three letters that characterise the Marques specialist vehicles. The new model both heads up and extends the 508 range, with an original design silhouette, justifying its exclusive designation - RXH.

A distinctive appeal
The Peugeot 508 RXH styling has its own distinctive character within the 508 range. Its elegance and style place it immediately in an exclusive world that combines premium-positioning, technology with the ability to experience adventure and promises of a new and unparalleled driving experience.

With a 40 mm wider track and its height increased by 50 mm, the new Peugeot has an individual stance, without sacrificing the characteristics of the 508 range - poise, elegance and status. The use of new, 18" forged wheel rims allowed designers to create a very fine wheel design with an internal diameter increased by 10 mm in comparison with conventional wheel rims. The result is a dynamic and elegantly enhanced body style.

Its adventurous side profile is illustrated through the bodywork extensions in satin stealth grey that envelope the lower body of the car. From the bottom of the front bumper, the line extends over the wheel arches, along the sill panels to meet the rear bumper. The choice of the satin trim finishers contribute to position this estate car within a refined world, as do the satin chrome inserts, with HYbrid4 badging, that adorns the sill panel, and front and rear protective trims. Fully integrated, they reflect the integrity applied to the cohesive design of the Peugeot 508 RXH.

The individual personality is more striking at the front end, which has become even more expressive while maintaining the strength of the brands new style aesthetics. Accompanying a wider and taller body silhouette, the grille is extended on its lower edge. More strikingly, the new grille accentuates the illusion that it is floating within the aperture. To achieve this, designers have taken influence from aviation reference points, notably taking inspiration from aircraft jet engine cowls. The air therefore seems to be well-channelled around the grille, which stands out distinctly from the bonnet line.

Its distinctive style lines give the Peugeot 508 RXH a very individual visual identity. It is the first Peugeot to use the iconic theme of the claw on the front. Its LED daytime running lights illuminate to form three lion claws, instantly recognisable by day and by night to reinforce the characteristic feline appearance of the head lamps. This unique and dynamic signature is complemented with the illumination of seven orange LEDs, from within the LED tube that is an original directional indicator function.

Like the 508 SW, the lines flow together in a harmonious and dynamic manner, falling back to a rear that is well seated on its haunches. The extensive panoramic glass roof has the benefit of being a continuation of the windscreen, with the profiled aluminium roof bars merging with the bodywork to enhance the exclusivity of the car. In this spirit, there are flush surfaces, highlighted by its high build quality finish. At the rear, the lights portray an elegant red band that glows brightly when the lights are on.

Refined interior styling and technology
The styling of the dashboard is centred heavily around the qualities evoked by the exterior design of the vehicle, with continued illustrations of high quality, purity, elegance, etc. Its design supports a multiplex centre console with switchgear that is equipped with technology designed to provide easy control to a host of features.

This purity and simplicity of design and integration is best demonstrated on the HYbrid4 drive mode selection knob and the gear selector lever. It has the design that combines the traditional gear selector lever and a computer mouse called the manettino - it fits perfectly into this pure and technological environment.

White backlighting is available throughout the Peugeot 508 RXH interior (on the instrument panel, displays and the various lighting zones within the car), showing great care in detail and finish. It is this and the attention to detail that illustrates the hallmarks of the latest Peugeot range.

The cars internal trim and decor have been created in harmony, evoking elegance without ostentation. The use of natural materials and colours, sometimes exclusively, enhance the distinctive character of the 508 RXH. Brushed aluminium and shaded lacquers are used on the dashboard for the first time in this way. A spectacular treatment in keeping with the electricity supplied by HYbrid4 technology, this decor is specified in tinted shades of copper. This theme, again unprecedented, is subtly continued throughout the interior with matching trim stitching in this copper shade. The exterior is also themed with a copper colour theme through the colouring of the lock tumblers in Calern Brown, a shade exclusive to the Peugeot 508 RXH.

The choice of light-coloured alcantara leather and an innovative laser-printed fabric creates a two-tone upholstery that reinforces the refined image of the car. Depending on preference, the customer may opt for full leather or half-leather upholstery.

A generously-proportioned, high-quality boot
In keeping with the vehicles interior, the boot of the Peugeot 508 RXH has been fitted out with care, using materials that continue to reflect a high level of quality with the materials specified. The aluminium rails and four solid chrome hooks elegantly decorate the functional boot floor, while a loading sill guard in the same material offers protection for the rugged adventurer potential of this new Peugeot.

The Peugeot 508 RXH boot has a capacity of 423 litres beneath the parcel shelf (or 400 dm3 in accordance with the VDA 210 standard). Its rectangular shape, with motorised tailgate and the storage compartments located under the flat floor (11 litres) make it easy to use. It is also possible to compartmentalise the boot using partition bars available as accessories, which attach to the aluminium rails inside the boot.

Finally, the loading volume can be increased easily by folding the 1/3 - 2/3 split rear bench seat in a single movement.

Enhancement through technological equipment
The Peugeot 508 RXH is offered in a single trim finish, generously-equipped, in accordance with its distinctive high-end positioning. All of the high-tech equipment available either as standard or as an option accentuates its exclusive character: Open and Go Stop Start, Colour Head Up Display (that includes the display of the navigation system information), main beam head lamps assistance, automatic electric parking brake, new telematics, JBL hi-fi stereo, Peugeot Connect SOS and Assistance, Xenon lights, etc.

A high level of comfort
Quality of comfort aboard the Peugeot 508 RXH has been the focus of particular care to ensure that each passenger can benefit from individual treatment. In addition to the generous space given to each seat, notably in the rear with excellent leg room and the panoramic glass roof, dedicated equipment allows everyone to have a high-level of comfort: with quad-zone air conditioning, drivers seat electric lumbar massage, electrically-adjustable driver and passenger seats with adjustable cushion edge and laminated acoustic rear side windows for road noise reduction, etc.

Benchmark for road handling
The suspension and wheel design also contribute to onboard comfort: with a Pseudo-McPherson type front axle and specific HYbrid4 technology, modular multi-arm rear axle. While cleverly incorporating the hybrid architecture and taking into account a new weight distribution, the Peugeot engineers have retained the recognised dynamic characteristics of the 508 range with an excellent synthesis of suspension comfort, light steering and good handling. The Peugeot 508 RXH is one of the latest generation of vehicles that expresses driving pleasure, due to its Peugeot chassis genetics and full diesel hybrid technology.

HYbrid4 technology: A logical combination
Offering the Peugeot 508 RXH with a HYbrid4 technology powertrain that combines diesel and electric motors, is a logical choice primarily because it provides a level of functionality that is perfectly matched to the various customer expectations in this segment:

The next generation enhances driving emotion
HYbrid4 technology also opens up new perspectives in the segment with a breakthrough in improved fuel consumption - 67.2 mpg and CO2 emissions of less than 109 g/km in the Combined Drive Cycle with a completely silent electric mode with zero emissions; ideal for driving around town efficiently.

In terms of performance, Peugeot 508 RXH benefits from the efficiency and power of its internal combustion engine combined with the electric motor during acceleration phases for an immediate increase in power (the boost function maximises performance and available power in the Sport mode). The maximum combined power can reach 147 kW (200bhp) by combining the 120 kW (163 bhp) from the 2.0 l HDi FAP diesel engine and the on-demand peak power of the 27 kW (37 bhp) electric motor. Up to 300 Nm of torque is delivered to the front wheels by the HDi diesel unit and up to 200 Nm to the rear wheels with the electric motor. The maximum combined value however is 450 Nm at lower road speeds, which guarantees excellent traction in most driving conditions including low-grip surfaces like snow and dirt roads, providing customers of this all-wheel drive estate car to comfortably go much further than ever before.

A car manufactured in France
The Peugeot 508 RXH is manufactured in Rennes, with the modular hybrid rear drive axle being assembled and supplied from Mulhouse, and is scheduled for UK release in spring 2012.

The Peugeot RCZ R Concept, making its debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, in its matt black and copper livery and announces the RCZ R, an emblematic version of radical sportiness which come out at the end of 2013. 

The Peugeot RCZ R receive a new 1.6-litre THP engine with a power output of 260bhp, making it the most powerful production model in Peugeots history.

Its efficiency  a benchmark with a specific power output among the highest in the world for a production vehicle - more than 160bhp/litre - with target CO2 emissions of 155g/km. 

With the promise of intense dynamic sensations, the Peugeot RCZ R will benefit from special suspension and wheels, combined with a Torsen limited slip differential.

Looks nice inside out .. the only problem is the driving feel. It feels busy at the steering, not as solid as VW.

Looks business (old) in daylight, but better at night due to LEDs. Driving feels is good though, comfortable.

Ok, my forth baby is coming so i was wondering whether should i get a D-segment car ... so since i was servicing my pug .. i hop in for another look at the Peugeot 508. In terms of looks, this car is handsome. Even in the standard version it looks classy and understated. The design is pleasing to the eye. Open into the cabin and the french dash design is very nice. I love the steering design, it feels sporty. The overall console looks good to me. Some complained that there is too many buttons, at the first round i went in and drive .. i do agree .. there is too much just to look out for and was wondering what does what.

Now as we went to the Passat after looking at the Pug interior.. my gosh ... what a total diff design language it was ... the VW was very simple in comparison. It felt that the car is almost bare. The design looks kinda conservative. Probably a bit too safe i would say. Even my wife commented that my Polo Gti is better. Nothing much to shout about we should say ..

On the driving part however things are a little different - the Passat kinda have the edge over the Pug i should say. Maybe it is the combination that works quite well. The suspension setting in Passat is comfortable and as I went through the rough roads at the Prai industrial area, it seems being able to damp all the bumps and holes. Sound proofing in commendable too. The car although comfortable never felt too light or compromised at the grip. The steering is electronics but it still provide sufficient feedback. Step on the gas and it accelerates quite smoothly ... overall this car drives better than it looks. It would be a very good cruiser.

The peugeot on the other hand, feels a bit harder on the suspension than the Passat. Although firm, it felt lighter, does lack the solidness that the Passat has. The steering feels lighter too. There is more feedback from the steering than the passat but somehow i felt that it is a tad too busy with those minor road in-perfections transmitted to the steering. The 6 speed auto is ok, but the VW dsg is definitely better. I dun quite feel the pull of the 6 speeder, the Passat does have more impact in this area. In terms of suspension, steering feel, engine power and tranmission response i would prefer the Passat.

Now .. back to the subject of cost. Would you get the standard Pug 508, premium 508 or Passat. Given the budget of 155k cap .. then of course the Pug is a good value for money. However if you can stretch to 170k then i think Passat would be the choice.

But for now, I think i will still stick to my 308 ... that is until i test the Jetta next Saturday.

This is not my steering, just put up to beautify my page (courtesy of HereticBar photo)

My leather was all gone, warranty is also so i have to refurbish it. Ironically as I went to the shop, the guy does not know how to open up the steering. Damn, i have to drive back and figure it out myself. There is little literature in regards to this, other than i know that there is 2 holes in the steering which you need to push the rest is total guesswork. Updated the pics of the new leather with thicker grip!!

You will have to poke here to lift the spring

This is how it looks like so more or less you know how to poke the hole ..muahaha ...steering i mean.

The connectors to remove, left is airbag, right is for the horn.

Refurbish the leathers, it is a little more stubby now as seems leather is thicker ..

A little thicker

Looks stubby right .. it feels softer more cushion than the original. A lot cheaper than getting the whole new steering.

 

The uncompromising sports credentials of the 308
The enthusiast drivers who will buy the 308 GTi will of course also benefit from an exclusive and sporty vehicle, but also from all of the qualities that have made the five-door 308 hatchback a success, in particular:
* High levels of comfort and convenience when inside the car, thanks to its semi-tall architecture ensuring exceptional interior brightness, visibility (a glazed surface area of up to 4.86 m2) and interior space, not forgetting its stylish and elegant fascia panel, its build quality and its distinctive acoustics…
* Maximum safety thanks to its structure and high-performance means of restraint (5 stars in the EuroNCAP 2009 test), and also thanks to the “Peugeot Connect SOS” system which pinpoints the vehicle’s location in the event of an accident (optional at only 290 € or standard with WIP Com 3D).
In France, the 308 GTi will be launched on the10th June, priced at 26,900 €. Detailed technical characteristics

Expressive style
Outside, the Peugeot 308 GTi makes subtle play of its distinctive features, meeting the wishes of discerning customers who know exactly what will set heads turning.
The Peugeot 308 GTi stands out from the rest of the range by:

• a bright black carbon-style insert under the front bumper lower skirt (specificity France),
• its "Sport" lower front panel derived from the Peugeot 308 CC,
• its lower rear bumper panel with Perla Nera black diffuser,
• its rear spoiler, offering additional efficiency at high speeds,
• a twin chrome exhaust pipes,
• "GTi" badges on the side and rear of the body,
• distinctive interior features, aluminium foot rest and gear knob, leather sport steering wheel with aluminium flattened lower edge and thumb rests, piano black fascia, ... )

The uncompromising sports credentials of the 308
The enthusiast drivers who will buy the Peugeot 308 GTi will of course also benefit from an exclusive and sporty vehicle, but also from all of the qualities that have made the five-door Peugeot 308 hatchback a success, in particular:
- High levels of comfort and convenience when inside the car, thanks to its semi-tall architecture ensuring exceptional interior brightness, visibility (a glazed surface area of up to 4.86 m2) and interior space, not forgetting its stylish and elegant fascia panel, its build quality and its distinctive acoustics…
- Maximum safety thanks to its structure and high-performance means of restraint (5 stars in the EuroNCAP 2009 test), and also thanks to the "Peugeot Connect SOS" system which pinpoints the vehicles location in the event of an accident (optional at only 290 € or standard with WIP Com 3D).
 ENGINE
A new 1.6-liter THP 147 kW (200 bhp) under the hood of the Peugeot 308 RCZ Coupe Sport GTI and effective in every sense of the word of the generous torque and power, fuel economy and low CO2 emissions, and in full compliance with emission standards Euro 5.
Meeting these environmental issues a priority for this machine and is the hallmark of modern and responsible approach …
With a maximum torque of 275 Nm (from 1700 rpm to 4500 rpm) and maximum power of 147 kW (5500-6800 rpm), 308 GTI benefits from training and equipment of the highest order of acceleration (80-120 km / h in 6.7 seconds in fifth gear , from 0 to 100 km / h in 7.7 s, 1000 m standing start in 27.8 s. ..) while its fuel consumption is 6.9 km litres/100 in combined cycle (159 g / km CO2).
To achieve this result, the engine 1598 cm3 four-cylinder combination – world premiere – all the latest technology:
* VHF (Turbo-charged with high pressure) with the twin-scroll turbocharger for a quick response and engine performance at very low speeds and gasoline direct injection to ensure optimal fuel consumption,
* VTi (Variable Valve Timing and injection) with variable intake valve lift combined with variable intake and exhaust camshafts, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Precise and responsive steering
In keeping with the Marque’s recognised know-how in this field, the steering ensures remarkable precision and is highly responsive, factors underpinning the car’s excellent driveability. The electro-hydraulic power steering (with an output of 650 W depending on circumstances) varies according to vehicle speed, speed of rotation of the steering wheel and steering fluid temperature. This allows for continuous adaptation of the power supplied and facilitates manoeuvres at low speed.
source:www.netcarshow.com