The Top 5 Vehicles FCA Should Consider Bringing From Europe in the Groupe PSA Merger

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By Car Brand Experts

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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Groupe PSA of France are merging to create the world’s fourth-largest automaker, potentially allowing some of PSA’s European models to be sold in the United States. PSA, with brands such as Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Opel, and Vauxhall, offers a variety of unique vehicles that could find their way stateside. 

In that vein, here are five PSA models that could be potential candidates for the U.S. market as a result of the merger. These vehicles could be rebranded as Dodge, Chrysler, or even Ram, fitting into FCA’s lineup without conflicting with existing offerings. Each of these vehicles could address gaps in American brand portfolios, some being more suitable than others. 

Citroën Jumpy

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2016 Citroën Jumpy, Groupe PSA

Having been redesigned in 2016, the flagship van from Groupe PSA, known as Citroën Jumpy in certain markets, could potentially be rebadged as a Ram ProMaster. This modern van could replace the current city edition based on the aging Fiat Ducato, which has been around since 2006. Given the longer life cycles of vans, the Jumpy’s recent launch in 2016 positions it competitively, ensuring the Ram ProMaster remains relevant through the mid-2020s.

DS 3 Crossback

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2018 DS 3 Crossback, Groupe PSA

The new DS 3 Crossback could be an appealing addition to Chrysler’s lineup with some design modifications. FCA currently lacks a premium subcompact crossover, making the DS 3 Crossback a potentially compelling choice for the brand. The upcoming electric variant could also help FCA reduce its dependency on Tesla for emissions credits, particularly given the high sales volume of models like the Jeep Wrangler and Hellcat.

Peugeot 508

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2019 Peugeot 508, Groupe PSA

The recently updated Peugeot 508 offers a range of body styles and powertrains that could cater to American preferences. With options like short-wheelbase liftbacks, long-wheelbase models with trunks, and station wagons, the vehicle is versatile. The powertrain choices, consisting of gas and diesel engines paired with automatic or manual transmissions, provide a diverse selection. An upcoming plug-in hybrid version inspired by the 508 Sport Engineered Concept showcased at the Geneva Motor Show could offer 395 horsepower and all-wheel drive.

Peugeot may reintroduce the 508 to the U.S. market, or the combined entity of FCA-PSA could bring it as a captive import initially.

Peugeot 5008

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2017 Peugeot 5008, Groupe PSA

FCA already possesses a midsize auto that blurs the boundary between minivan and crossover in the Dodge Journey, yet given that the Journey is over a decade old and employs a four-speed slushbox almost three times its own age, it is overdue for a replacement. The Peugeot 5008 would serve as a strong alternative, maintaining the Journey’s optional third row and providing a comparable, uncertain driving experience regarding reaching highway speeds. We also believe that the similarly sized Vauxhall Grandland X would be suitable in the United States, although it is a much less captivating method to conclude this compilation than…

Peugeot 308 GTI

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2018 Peugeot 308 GTI, Groupe PSA

The second-generation 308 GTI portrayed is already a thing of history, yet French media speculates that a fresh, third-generation 308 is on the horizon, accompanied by GT and GTI versions. Both are said to be plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) with 220-horsepower powertrains on the front axle, although the GTI is purported to include a rear-axle motor for a maximum output of 300 horsepower. As hybrids, they might be a bit hefty compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R, but their French allure and fuel efficiency could entice enthusiasts back from the German side.

The upcoming Peugeot 308 is reportedly set for an unveiling next March at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show, which has suddenly become more relevant for passionate enthusiasts.



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