The Peugeot brand can trace its roots back to 1899 when the first Peugeot car was manufactured - a three-wheel steam-powered model, and a year later steam was dropped in favour of petrol and the three-wheel model turned into a four-wheel version, using an engine under license from Daimler.
Following WW1 cars became more of a necessity and less of a luxury which meant bigger sales for Peugeot and in 1929 the first 201 model was introduced.
1948 saw the beginning of a new series of Italian-designed models by Pininfarina completing the line-up.
The success of these cars determined Peugeot to start selling in the United States in 1958. By this time, Peugeot starting collaborating with other manufacturers such as Renault (1966) and Volvo (1972).
In a bid to acquire a bigger share of the market, Peugeot bought 30% of Citroen in 1974, which meant a change in the company's name to PSA (Peugeot Societe Anonyme). This partnership meant that the two brands could make use of each other's technical achievements but keep their independence design-wise.
In 1978 the PSA group purchased the European division of Chrysler an investment which proved detrimental. The reason for low sales in this time was because the facilities as well as machineries purchased from Chrysler were faulty and old.
During the 90s Peugeot model line-up was aimed at a more luxurious market in order to meet the needs of their customers.
Some wins in the racing world, including rallies and even Formula 1, have helped Peugeot with sales.
Peugeot currently offers these cars for sale in South Africa: City Cars 107- 5 door, 208-5 door, 208- GTI Family Cars 308 -5 door and 3008 Executive Cars 508 Coupe and Cabriolet 308 CC and RCZ SUV 4008
The stylish new Peugeot SW has been revealed to rival the Skoda Superb Estate, while a hybrid model is set to arrive in 2019
Like VW`s recent arrival, the spy shots reveal that Peugeot is planning a rakish, smooth profile for its new D-segment saloon - a segment where eye-catching style is becoming vital as more and more new car buyers opt for crossovers and SUVs. The squeeze has been placed on cars like the 508, Vauxhall Insignia and Ford Mondeo by more competitively priced offerings from premium brands like Mercedes, Audi and BMW too, so a step up in quality is vital.
Peugeot has made no bones about its attempt to move further upmarket and match premium mainstream brands like VW, while at the same time distancing itself from sister brands Citroen and DS.
