Dongfeng Peugeot's first Chinese SUV to make debut at Auto Guangzhou 2013

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai November 16) - Dongfeng Peugeot's first Chinese manufactured SUV, the Peugeot 3008, will make its debut at the upcoming Guangzhou International Automobile Industry Exhibition, the China Business Times reported today.

The 3008 (pictured) will be powered by a 1.6 L turbocharged high pressure engine that will play a key part in the joint venture's 'E strategy', which will focus on improving efficiency, economy and environmental friendliness of its vehicles. The engine, which was developed in cooperation with BMW, has won the International 1.4 L to 1.8 L Engine of the Year award for six years running. It powers a variety of Mini, Peugeot and Citroën vehicles. The 3008 mates the engine to a six-speed manumatic transmission.

The 3008 looks set to compete with models such as the Dongfeng Nissan Qashqai and Renault Scénic. The 3008 has been sold in China since late last year as an imported version, carrying a price tag between 246,800 and 266,800 yuan ($38,746-$41,885).

Dongfeng Peugeot originally brought over the 3008 to China in 2010 as an imported model. However, due in part to its high price tag, the model's sales failed to meet expectations. Following domestic production, the JV should be able to reduce prices for the SUV.