PAGE 38 — SUNDAY Vanguard, JUNE 19, 2016
Peter Okoye of P-Square is Kia Ambassador
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•Peugeot 4008
HIGH COST OF FUEL: Peugeot 4008 SUV to the rescue R
ENOWNED French car maker, Peugeot, is not known for making sport utility vehicles SUVs. It is a master, when it comes to the production of sedans and estates. Remember the 404, 504 and 505 sedans and estates. They were in a class of their own during their time. They were preferred models for car buyers in the 70’s and 80’s, and early 1990’s. But times have changed and Peugeot changed with time. Peugeot has dropped the old workhorse and replaced them with trendy and modern ones with a lot of innovations and hitechs. Peugeot has taken advantage of the current trend in the automobile industry whereby SUVs have become the way forward to launch itself into the category. The high cost of petrol in Nigeria makes a car like 4008 the car to beat. The launch of the 4008, however, marks yet another beginning for Peugeot in the automobile world, especially at a time when even luxury automakers are veering into SUV production. Bentley, Jaguar, Porsche, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz had all launched themselves into this segment to tell you how important the SUV has become. Only an unserious car maker would ignore this car segment and Peugeot has cashed into this segment with the 4008, an SUV that combines performance with comfort like typical luxury sedans. Having established itself as one of the leading automobile makers in the world, Peugeot has brought its many years of experience to bear on the new 4008 sport utility vehicle. The 4008 adopts a clearly
distinctive style. It asserts a personality with audacious lines and a genuine all-terrain attitude that is both expressive and dynamic. Compact and solid, the Peugeot 4008 is an off-road vehicle with a strong personality. It combines outstanding handling with comfort, beside many of modern features. The versatility, according to Peugeot, was achieved through a high quality suspension system and a range of transmission mode. Peugeot did not build the 4008 like a new comer in this segment. It masterfully crafted it to take any tough task. The 4×4 mode of the 4008 overcomes every terrain when the need arises, while the twowheel drive is at home with dry tarmac road. In poor road like sandy or muddy road, the 4WD lock mode tackles the road with ease. The 4008 is available with a 2.0 litre engine, which delivers 150 brake-horse power. This engine is marched with a continuously variable automatic transmission, CVT, combined
with steering wheel paddle-shift controls for driving pleasure.
The adventurous personality The adventurous personality of the 4008 comes hand-in-hand with an interior that is enhanced by the quality of the trim and the materials used, such as chrome.
Other details like the LED lighting on the side of the glass panoramic roof contribute to the perceive quality of the interior. The 4008 is fitted with efficient and practical equipment, devised for occupants pleasures, safety and driving comfort. For instance, with the 4008, the traditional key has been replaced by an electronic recognition system that simplifies using the 4008. With the identifier still in your pocket or hand-bag, you can access your 4008, start it, and stop it simply by pressing the button. The vehicle can be locked again simply by pressing the button on the front door handle or boot as you leave. There is generous legroom and headroom for all occupants. The 4008 also offers occupants comforts worthy of the finest saloon cars: numerous storage comportments, automatic air conditioning, a refrigerated glove box, electric windows, quality sound system among other features.
ETER Okoye, the multi talented award winning R&B music duo of P-Square has joined the Kia family as its new ambassador. Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr. P is revered for his dancing steps and admired by fans axross the globe. Although the contract sum was not disclosed, a Kia source said that it was an irressitable package Kia says, "we are happy to inform you that Peter Okoye (MrP) of the multi award winning R&B music duo of PSquare has joined the Kia family as our new ambassador. As one of the foremost music artists in Nigeria with unrivalled accentuated dance moves, his array of nerve wrecking dance performances and musical ingenuity are wrapped-up into his choice as the new face of Kia which reflects the true expression and style of the Kia brand’s aesthetic design. At Kia, we are committed to creating synergy through a sense of “togetherness” that is fostered by mutual communication and cooperation to promote customer-driven corporate culture with all values centered on our customers as we continuously bring new waves to the brand in Nigeria.
•Peter Okoye
Brent leads Ford in Middle East, Africa
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ORD Motor Company has announced leadership changes in the Middle East and Africa as it continues to deliver the company’s One Ford plan for profitable growth. Jacques Brent, 46, currently vice president Marketing, Asia Pacific, is appointed president, Middle East and Africa, effective July 1, 2016. He will be based in Dubai. He replaces Jim Benintende, who will be taking over the role of director, US Sales Support reporting to Mark LaNeve, vice president U.S. Marketing Sales and Service at Ford’s World Headquarters in Dearborn, effective Aug. 1, 2016. “This is a great opportunity in
Ford’s newest region and I look forward to continuing the growth and momentum we have established in these diverse markets,” Brent said. “Jim and the team have done great job establishing the region and it is an honour for me to be able to lead this region as we embark on the next exciting phase of our development,” added Brent. “I am also very excited to once again be working with South Africa, and to get to know the employees and dealers in the other regions.” “We welcome one of our favourite sons back to the region,” said Jeff Nemeth, CEO and President Sub Saharan African
Region. “Jacques has distinguished himself in his assignments in North America and Asia Pacific and understands the workings of South Africa and Africa. He has key relationships with our team and dealer body, which will greatly benefit the company going into the future.” Brent has worked at Ford for 19 years beginning his career at Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa. His career has spanned three continents and multiple brands over the years. He has worked in leadership roles within markets and the various brands with cross functional experience in finance, marketing, sales and general management.