French car industry struggling

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6276590.stm

Apparently Peugeot and Renault have both seen drops in sales in Europe.

I think Peugeot's current range is very uninspiring. During the 205, 306, 405-406 period their cars were very attractively styled. Now they have these huge low-slung gaping maws and long noses.

Renault seems to have shot itself in the foot with the Modus, a car which is smaller that the Clio, but taller and more expensive.

Meanwhile Citroën ( hurrah ! hurrah! ) are selling so many C4 Picassos that they have had to move production of the still excellent Xsara Picasso from Portugal to France to keep up with demand. And the 3 door C4 is hugely popular second-hand for its futuristic styling.

And the Dacia Logan, designed and built by Renault in Romania, is hugely popular in France because it is cheap, simple, reliable and big. Especially the 7 seater estate car that looks as long as an aircraft carrier ( but probably isn't quite ).

Comments

Andrew and Cora said…
We are thinking of buying a Renault. Brazilian made, of course. Curitiba, just north of us (3 hrs) is home to their factory, and because of this the most violent french-style rugby team in Brazil.
Alan said…
Sounds good to me. What would it be?

The VW Fox that is sold in UK and in France is made in Brésil, I understand. Supposed to be very good, too.
Liz said…
A Renault is fine, just so long as you don't need to visit Renault Croydon or Coulsdon, which of course you won't in Brasil or France! Also, make sure you're in France if you need to buy a spare key!

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