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Why are French manufacturers obsessed with finishes?

This page is translated from the original post "Pourquoi les constructeurs français sont-ils obsédés par les finitions ?" in French.

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finitions constructeurs français

While many manufacturers focus on clarity and simplicity in their ranges, French brands continue to multiply the finishes.

A particularly revealing example of this obsession among French manufacturers comes today from Peugeot, which is introducing two new trims in its range, “Business” and “GT Exclusive”. Two additional versions, available across a large part of the range, that add to an already dense stack of equipment levels.

The “Business” trim, aimed particularly at professionals, is available on the 208, 2008, 308, 408, 3008, and 5008, with enhanced equipment (rearview camera, electric mirrors, i-Connect Advanced system, etc.). As for the “GT Exclusive” trim, it targets the top of the range with Alcantara leather, massaging and heated seats, a heat pump on electric models, and a very comprehensive technological arsenal.

Why make it simple?

But this logic of constant enhancement of ranges ends up harming their readability. Buyers must navigate between entry-level trims, intermediate versions, limited editions, and high-end versions, each sometimes supplemented by a specific package or conditional options. In contrast, brands like Tesla offer a simple configuration: four versions, six colors, two interiors, and that’s it. The promise? Streamlined production, shorter lead times, and a clear purchasing experience.

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At Peugeot, Renault, or Dacia, this surplus of variations complicates everything. Customers get lost, salespeople struggle to keep up, and factories must manage countless combinations. As a result, many versions end up stored, sometimes unsold, and then heavily discounted as soon as a new model year is announced.

While the intention to cater to all types of buyers is commendable, the excess of finishes becomes counterproductive. At a time when industrial efficiency and customer transparency have become priorities, the French automotive industry would benefit from drawing inspiration from simplification strategies… even at the cost of breaking with a deeply ingrained tradition.

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