Peugeot has commenced production of the
208 subcompact hatchback at the El Palomar plant in Argentina, marking the
debut of the modern CMP platform in Latin America. Production of the new 208
began on July 31 in El Palomar, a satellite town of Buenos Aires, marking one
of the most important launches in the brand’s history in both Argentina and
Latin America.
That’s because it signals a different
approach from PSA Group with regards to the markets in the region. With the
notable exception of VW, rival automakers present in Latin America typically
offer small cars based on dated platforms. The Peugeot 208, however, is
underpinned by the carmaker’s latest Common Modular Platform (CMP), a modular
and multi-energy architecture that also accommodates EVs. CMP is dedicated to
the production of all compact city cars (B segment), entry level and mid-range
saloons (C segment), and compact SUVs.
Furthermore, the El Palomar facility has
undergone a major industrial transformation, starting with a US$ 320 million
investment in 2016. The plant is now one of the most innovative within the PSA
Group and integrates some suppliers to make the production processes even more
efficient. As a result, the 208 built in Argentina is largely the same as the
one made in Slovakia and Morocco. For example, the local version of the
subcompact hatch features the latest generation on-board technology, which
includes a new generation Peugeot i-Cockpit with a 3D head-up display and many
driving aids. According to Peugeot, this level of technology is unprecedented
in this segment in Latin America.
At launch, the 208 will be offered in
Argentina with two petrol powertrains: an 82 PS 1.2-liter
three-cylinder and a 115 PS 1.6 four-cylinder. The standard five-speed
manual and optional six-speed automatic transmissions send power to the front
wheels. New powertrains, such as the 130 PS 1.2-liter turbo and the
all-electric e-208, will be added later on.
