A British View of French Cars | French Automobile Brands 2025

For decades, French car makers have been Frenching up the roads around the world. French cars have always held a certain appeal for UK citizens because of their best selling traits: comfort, style, invention, and ethnicity. If you want a car that compliments your style, is affordable and has some European flair, the French car industry has got you covered.

But with evolution comes a lot of confusion for British drivers. They are left baffled by questions like What makes cars in France? Is Peugeot still French? What brand is the most dependable French Car manufacturer?  

This British view on French Cars aims to satisfy curiosity without any exaggeration. 

Citroën and Peugeot Are Not the Only French Cars – An Overview of French Car Culture

French Cars are known for Renault, Peugeot, and Citroën, but many people do not know the French have an automobile history that goes for more than a century filled with innovations and surprises.

The recent years have seen a spike in the number of people who are interested in vehicles in the UK, and it’s not hard to tell why. The rising fuel prices, trends of using electric vehicles, or just pure desperation for a change has made people turn towards French Brands.

1. Which automaker produces cars in France?  

Let’s answer the question. Which French manufacturing companies produce vehicles? Check out the list of brands still associated with France:  

Peugeot  

A household name, Peugeot has long been a symbol of French motoring. The 208 and 3008 are quite popular among British people. Although not all Peugeots are manufactured in France, several key models such as the Sochaux and Mulhouse are produced in France.  

Citroën  

Along with Stellanis owning Citron’s parent company, Citron still builds vehicles like C5 Aircross in France. The vehicle’s eccentric design makes it comfortable and has built a loyal fan base.  

Renault  

Renault builds vehicles in a number of places but still releases some Clio and Megane models in France. The company is also venturing into electric cars but domestic UK markets have launched the Megane E-tech and Mergane E-tech. 

DS Automobiles  

Citroen initially created automoto like a subsidiary of Citron but now DS has evolved into its own distinguishable brand. The vehicles focus on premium attire and luxury elements alongside hallmark French features. A lot of the DS models remain in production in France and the automobiles are getting popular among British motorists seeking something new.

Bugatti

Bugatti might not design cars intended for city driving, but it is very much French. Its headquarter and car manufacturing factory are located in Molsheim, Alsace. Of course, it’s not a commonplace sight for residents here, but models commencing at a couple million pounds does put the French pride on the map.

2. Is Peugeot Still Made In France?

As long as Peugeot is still made in France, the answer would be yes. However, not all models are made there.

Peugeot does possess some production facilities in France, one being its historical factory in Sochaux, which was established in 1912. It still manufactures the Peugeot 308, 508, and even some electric models like the e-208…yes they are all made in France. 

Like a lot of car manufacturers today, Peugeot does have some factories in other countries to expand their market reach. A few of the Peugeots sold in the UK could be manufactured in Spain or Slovakia for that matter, depending on the model.

But for those searching for a uniquely French manufactured Peugeot…look no further as the options are plenty.

3. Which brand of French cars is the most dependable?  

For UK drivers who are or were used to German or Japanese cars, reliability tends to be an issue. This leads to the question: Which brand of French cars is the most dependable?  

Even though it can be a bit hit and miss from model to model and year to year, Peugeot does seem to take the top spot in JD power and Driver Power surveys. Their newer models do seem to improve in the construction quality of the chassis, as well as in the reliability of technology incorporated.  

DS does have some leeway when it comes to performance of the cabin, and is located on the more quiet side of the spectrum, even if it is relatively new to the rest of the circulation, but does still earn points for the construction of the inside. Moreover, Renault seems to be making strides as well, especially with their electric models.  

All in all, if you are in the market looking for a French badge, in terms of dependability, Peugeot is often the answer, especially in the UK where access to parts and servicing along with support is abundant.

4. What is France’s Best Car?  

This one is challenging to answer. It primarily depends on your preferences. If you ponder this question, “What is the best car made in France?” These are some exemplary Peugeot 208 / e-208 contenders of 2025.  

With the e-208, regarded as the best electric vehicle in the UK, the 208 family continues to win hearts across Europe. It is practical for city life, stylish, and fun to drive. The 208 represents the zenith of contemporary French motoring, and we are proud of it.  

Renault Clio  

The Clio seems to be a long-time favorite among the British, which has incredibly valid reasons. It offers comfort and technology, affordability, and excels in each category, essentially achieving the three goals. Making it a worthy choice is that the newer versions are hybrid models, so along with comfort, you go green.  

DS 7  

Unlike its German competitors, the DS 7 goes easy on your bank account while giving you unprecedented French luxury. This premium-style vehicle is bold and well equipped while offering a silky smooth driving experience. As a statement car made in France, it is a vehicle that makes quite an impression in the UK and will have eyes glued as you cruise around in France.

Bugatti Chiron

For the incredibly wealthy, it would be hard to find a car better than the Bugatti Chiron. For the average person, it might be a ridiculously impractical purchase, but a true work of art when it comes to engineering and design. It is manufactured in Molsheim, France. While this car is certainly not for the ‘average joe’, it does take the title for the most spectacular French car you can think of.

French Cars in the UK | What’s the Appeal

This is something new, given that French cars have always had a different style. Unlike their German counterparts, the French don’t even think about boasting about horsepower but often end up winning drivers with the softer suspension, unique appeal, and great fuel economy.

In the UK, French cars are a breath of fresh air, something that breaks the monotonous routine. With escalating fuel prices as well as urban driving, French models like Peugeot e-208 and Renault Zoe are gaining popularity.

Want to make the switch to electric? French car companies seem to be ahead of the game.

Are French Cars Still Worth Buying in 2025?

Spending on a French car in 2025? The answer is everything but misleading.

Countless French cars are built with practicality in mind. They are rarely overengineered and often offer far lower prices than other competing European brands. To add onto this, a multitude of their models seem to overpower British standards of roads in terms of comfort, tech, and style. This is a good explanation as to why their market demand is constantly increasing.

The Electric Revolution | Advancements From France

France’s automobile manufacturing industry is fully investing their attention towards implementing electric features. Renault has already released electric alternatives such as Zoe and Megane E-Tech. Additionally, Peugeot has also begun work on electric versions of the 208 and 2008 models.

From 2024 onwards, all new DS models will include hybrids or full electric versions, making them increase their focus on electric vehicles.

This are great news for the UK, as French cars tend to offer better prices compared to competitors targeting the lower budget electric vehicle market.

Newly Featured French Cars in the UK (2025 and Further)

Listed below are some of the cars that are gaining attention in the UK:

Peugeot 408 Fastback Hybrid – Striking looks and everyday usability combined into one car. 

Renault Austral – SUV

DS 4 – Premium compact hatch with vibrant sport performance.

Citroën Ami – A currently popular micro electric car because of its odd shape and low price.

Final Comments

Looking for answers to “What French car manufacturers are there?” or, “Is Peugeot French?” reveals the rich, albeit often overlooked history of French automobile design that is striking yet practical. France continues to produce some of the most fascinating and underrated vehicles in the world.

There truly is something for everyone in the diverse lineup from dependable Peugeot, forward-thinking Renault, trendy DS and quirky Citroën. So, make sure to check out French manufacturers the next time you’re thinking of buying a car in the UK. They offer history, character, and more of late, remarkable dependability.