Proton X50 Vs. Peugeot 2008 – Malaysian Tiger Versus French Lion

Not long ago, the Pakistani car industry was the image of a tumbleweed rolling by in a desolate desert. The market was ruled by three carmakers, which left the buyers with limited options.

However, the past three years saw the Automotive Development Policy (ADP) 2016-21 breathe some life into the ailing industry by opening the gates for several new carmakers and previously exiled ones as well.

This caused the undeniable paradigm shift that is the rise in the popularity of crossover SUVs. While some new ones have quickly carved a niche for themselves, others have not yet reached their full potential due to late entry, COVID-19 induced handicaps, or simply not being able to keep up with the demand

Regardless, a few new crossovers are set to debut this year, with Proton X50 and Peugeot 2008 being two of the most anticipated arrivals. Both are subcompact crossover SUVs that will compete with the high-end C-segment sedans.

Both crossovers are also latest generation products that promise a modern package of utility and style, but is one better than the other? In this detailed comparison, we will attempt to answer that question.

Exterior Styling

Peugeot 2008

Peugeot 2008 can easily take the title for the best-looking SUV in Pakistan on launch. It is modern, unique, and will catch the fancy of many Pakistanis who love over-zealous styling.

The large front grille with verticle mini-slats, sporty front bumpers, headlights that resemble reptilian eyes, and the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) that resemble snake fangs make for a distinct and aggressive front fascia. From the side, apart from the contrasting color of the D-pillar, with a few unique character lines and the 18″ rims (in the top-trim only), 2008 seems a lot less dramatic.

The modernness continues at the back, though, with a stylish tailgate, streaked LED taillights on either side, and a unique rear bumper. All styling elements come together nicely to create a distinct and beautiful crossover SUV.

Proton X50

Proton X50’s design seems to be heavily inspired by the European hot-hatches. For a crossover, X50 has an uber-aggressive frontend, featuring a sharp pair of projector headlights with DRLs, an angular front bumper design, and an edgy front grille with a thin red line that goes under the Proton emblem, making it look like a sporty hatchback.

The side profile is quite standard, much like any new crossover SUV. Some styling elements include 18″ two-tone alloy wheels, some lines and curves that run across the length of the vehicle, and a pair of silver roof-rack rails on top. The flagship trim also gets blacked-out A, B, and C pillars, although it is unknown which trim Pakistan will get.

The rear features sharp LED taillights, a spoiler on top, the 4th brake light in the middle of the rear bumper, and the quad-tail exhaust cut-outs, all of which, add to the SUV’s overall sporty look.