This week we learned PSA Peugeot Citroën has an ambitious plan to return to the U.S. and permanently dethrone Germany and Japan as the manufacturers of America's favorite imports. (Okay, none of that is really true.) What cars should they bring over?
The news got me wondering what models in the Peugeot or Citroën lineups would appeal to U.S. buyers. I think it's fair to say that aside from a few weirdos, rally fans and Jalopnik readers, Americans by and never really "got" French cars. But like Zac said a few months ago, the French automakers' current lineups show a lot of potential, especially in the entry-level and entry-premium segments.
A question to you readers: What French cars would do well here? I think the Peugeot 208 GTi could be a fun contender in the hot hatch battle. I'd love to see it engaging in le hoonage on our roads.
Then there's the Citroën DS3, which is wonderful and weird and also practical. Maybe it could do what the Fiat 500 is trying to do here too. I'll take a DS3 Racing myself. Because Orange Wheels.
One more suggestion: the new Peugeot 3008. Americans are buying small crossovers like they're made of chocolate cake and bacon right now, and something efficient, interesting and European could be poised to do well in this market.
Any suggestions? Feel free to throw some Renaults in there too. Why not?