With the launch of the all-new Peugeot 3008 Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) by PAN Nigeria Limited, the automobile market in Nigeria is set to witness a new dawn of luxury ride.

The launch of the drastically revamped, SUV, which industry experts predicted will be a game changer in the SUV segment is expected to be a major push to the leading local auto assembly plant in the country in its quest to further expand its market share , and boost corporate bottomline.

Speaking at the unveiling of the SUV in Lagos, Chairman Board of Directors of PAN, Munir J’aafaru, said he is delighted the event took place at the centre of excellence.

“Reflecting on the recent progresses within the last five years, we have responded to the taste of our customers. We have succeeded largely and progressively growing market shares. We are expanding our frontiers in the local market and our aspiration is to deliver leadership in auto sales in Nigeria” J’aafaru said.

Chairman of the event and former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro, said, he is delighted to witness the revival of a great company in Nigeria.

Pedro, who commended PAN said the unveiling done in Lagos was very wise decision, adding that 35 percent of auto sales come from Lagos State.

“Peugeot 3008 is a great car. It is elegant, powerful beautiful, and a car to enjoy,” Pedro noted. “

Explaining the features of the vehicle, Managing Director of PAN , Ibrahim Boyi listed safety and the security features of the new SUV.

Boyi said the new SUV, which is well equipped with all the trappings of a luxury, safety, comfort and technology will be competitively-priced compared to competition.

According to him, 3008 SUV has seen a significant upgrade on the design front, compared to its predecessor. Comparatively, the first generation sported a half-and-half look between an SUV and a multi-purpose vehicle. This generation, however, now looks like a proper crossover.

In the interior, the 3008’s high-tech cabin looks like something straight out of ‘Star Trek’, thanks in part to Peugeot’s i-Cockpit.

“Its sleek exterior, futuristic cabin and several unorthodox features take it on a journey to explore unchartered territories of the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment.

‘‘Combining style, athleticism, and efficiency, the Peugeot 3008 SUV fits the exacting needs of the premium segment in the country, providing the best of all worlds to both drivers and passengers alike

“Turbo-charging has the PSA France to create smaller engines which have better fuel consumption, more power, and significant reductions in weight, allowing for an uncompromising performance in every drive.’’

The New 3008 SUV in particular boasts of groundbreaking technology and design never before seen in previous models.

Complementing the SUV’s high-powered, low displacement engine is a body that is 100kg lighter than its predecessor. Combining these elements produces an optimal power-to-weight ratio that puts the vehicle ahead of its competitors

‘‘The vehicle is lighter, yet more agile and responsive than previous generation model. This further disproves the common notion that higher displaced engines are more suitable for SUVs,” he added.

Boasting of a sleek and ultra-modern exterior, the Peugeot 3008 SUV leaves an unmistakable impression on the senses as it displays character and strength. Its wide checkered grille highlights the athletic look of the vehicle, while its signature feline LED front headlamps, long bonnet, large wheels, and high ground clearance denote a confident SUV stance.

The distinct look is completed by a roof finishing that suggests an air of sophistication, as it appears to float through the aid of tasteful chrome highlights.

Inside, the driving experience is immediately amplified through Peugeot’s next generation iCockpit that has a 12.3-inch all-digital instrument panel. With its advanced ergonomics, modern display panel, and interactive touchscreen, drivers and passengers are immersed in a modern digital world.

“Apart from its distinctive style, it represents the brand’s move towards improving efficiency while delivering an even greater power output compared to previous models. This explains Peugeot’s decision to match the 3008 SUV with a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine,” he added.