In the automotive world, it’s not very often that a business announcement would overshadow a new car launch. But that was the case two days ago when Peugeot announced the appointment of Astara as its new Philippine distributor, taking over the previous distributor, Eurobrands Distributor Inc..
Formerly known as Bergé Auto, Astara is one of the biggest automotive distributors in Europe and Latin America. Since its inception in 1979, the company carved a successful path as a leading group in distribution and mobility services. Astara is instrumental in the selling of over three million cars as strategic partner of the world’s leading automotive groups.
Currently, Astara offers a whole range of products and services focused on mobility, such as ownership, subscription, B2B and B2C, and new channels. These are supported in turn by a self-developed digital platform, which allows interaction with customers throughout the different steps in their journey.
The takeover marks the partnership of Astara and Stellantis, one of the leading global automakers where the Peugeot brand is housed. It also ushers in Astara’s expansion in Asia, starting in the Philippines, as it has seen much potential in the market with the local automotive industry slowly recovering.
“Having just celebrated our tenth anniversary in the Philippines, we are energized to continue building our momentum in the country through our great vehicles and after-sales service offerings with Astara as our partner,” Peugeot Philippines Brand Head Maricar Parco said.
Peugeot Philippines plans to introduce four new vehicles this year, starting with the 2022 5008 SUV, which the company launched last Monday. The new 5008 breaks new ground as a premium seven-seater SUV. Inside, Peugeot’s award-winning i-Cockpit offers a unique and immersive driving experience. Driver confidence has been innovated to new levels with a multitude of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including active blind spot detection, lane keep assistance, and driver attention alert, making driving safer and ultimately, more enjoyable.
On the outside, the front end features a frameless radiator grille and full LED headlights with “illuminated fangs” daytime running lights. The full LED taillights leave a lasting impression with its 3D claws covered with a transparent smoke lens and scrolling indicators. Featuring a sleek, raised body design, the dynamic stance of the new 5008 is highlighted with chrome details that extend from the headlights to the rear spoiler and enhanced by the 18” alloy wheels that add a final touch.
The new 5008 showcases the latest generation 1.6L twin-scroll-turbo high-pressure (THP) 165hp/240Nm engine that, coupled with a 6-speed automatic, balances strong performance with impressive fuel efficiency.
The new 5008 SUV is assembled at Stellantis’s manufacturing plant in Gurun, Malaysia. All vehicles built in this plant undergo specific endurance and quality testing to deliver best-in-class performance to meet the needs of customers in Southeast Asia. Together with other Peugeot models, the 2022 5008 SUV successfully endured a combined 300,000 kilometers of testing in the diverse local climate and environmental landscape.
Stellantis expressed their optimism in the new distributor paving the way in unlocking more opportunities for Peugeot in the market. “Astara will bring to the Philippines its strong expertise in strategy implementation and a wealth of cross-market experience to realize the potential of Peugeot in the Philippines,” Stellantis Senior Vice President for ASEAN and General Distributors Christophe Musy shared.
“Our investment will help infuse a renewed sense of vigor for Peugeot Philippines and its patrons, creating a more purposeful brand that resonates to the Philippine market,” Peugeot Philippines Managing Director Raoul Picello said. “We hope that, as we move forward and grow together, these exciting changes can help us meet the ever-changing needs of Filipinos.”
Astara’s global expertise in cutting-edge technology will support Peugeot Philippines’ digital transformation at all levels by the second quarter of this year. To bring the brand closer to more Filipinos nationwide, Peugeot Philippines aims to open seven more dealerships on top of the current four outlets, totaling 11 by end of 2022.
The new 5008 7-seater SUV is priced at Php 2,260,000 and is now available at all Peugeot showrooms in the following colors: Emerald Crystal, Nera Black, Pearl White and Amazonite Grey.
Visit https://www.peugeot.ph to know more about the new Peugeot Philippines.
