When it comes to a car with a lion on its emblem, many people immediately think of Peugeot - a French automaker with more than a century of history. However, the lion as a symbol is also found in other car brands, albeit not so brightly. This predator is associated with strength, power and dynamism, which is ideal for the world of cars, where competition resembles a struggle for leadership.
But why a lion? How did this symbol appear on hood badges, and what car models can you buy today with such an emblem? In this article we will examine not only the obvious answers, but also little-known facts - from historical roots to modern interpretations. For example, did you know that Peugeot the lion appeared long before the first cars, and today its image has been transformed into a stylized “lion on its hind legs”? Or that there are other brands where the lion is hidden in the logo less noticeably?
If you're looking for a specific model or want to understand how the lion symbol influences brand perception, read on. We will also touch on the legal nuances of using such emblems and how this affects the cost of cars when buying or selling.
Which cars have a lion emblem: complete list of brands
The most famous brand with a lion is, of course, Peugeot. The French company has been using this predator since 1847, when the Peugeot family was engaged in the production of metal products, not cars. The lion symbolized strength, flexibility and speed of metal processing (remember how a lion “sharpenes” its claws on a tree trunk). Today logo Peugeot is a stylized lion standing on its hind legs, inscribed in a shield.
However, there are other automakers where the lion is present in one form or another:
- 🦁 Alfa Romeo - the emblem depicts a man being devoured by a snake, but in some versions of the logo (for example, on racing models of the 1920s) a lion was found as a symbol of the Milan coat of arms.
- 🦁 Vauxhall (British brand owned by Opel) - their logo, a griffin, partially resembles a lion with eagle wings.
- 🦁 MG - older versions of the logo (before the 1980s) used a lion as a reference to British heraldry.
- 🦁 Lamborghini - although their symbol is a bull, in some special series (for example, Lamborghini Miura P400 SV "Jota") the lion appeared as a design element.
Interestingly, the lion is often associated with racing series. For example, in Formule Lion (French karting series) or on the emblems of private teams in Le Mans. If you see a car with a lion on the track, chances are it's either a retro model or a racing prototype.
History of the Peugeot emblem: from metalworking to cars
First appearance of a lion on products Peugeot dates back 1847, when the company was producing saws, knives and other metal products. The lion symbolized three key product qualities:
- Strength - like a lion's claws.
- Flexibility - Leo can adapt to any situation.
- Speed - in those days, metalworking required fast movements.
The first logo featured a lion standing on an arrow, a symbol of speed and direction. By 1889, when Peugeot released its first steam tricycle, the lion was already strongly associated with the brand. And since 1905, with the start of car production, the emblem became more dynamic: the lion reared up, as if ready to rush forward.
The modern logo we see today appeared in 2021. This is a simplified version of the lion without the shield, stylized for the digital age. Interestingly, in 2010–2020, the lion was inscribed in a silver shield, which was supposed to emphasize the reliability and premium quality of the brand. However, the transition to minimalism is associated with the “flat design” trend in the auto industry.
Why did Peugeot remove the shield from the logo in 2021?
According to the official statement, this was done to better adapt to digital media (smartphone screens, social networks) and simplify perception. In addition, the shield was associated with a “heavy” heritage, and the new logo was supposed to symbolize the transition to electric vehicles (series e-208, e-3008).
Little known fact: between 1965 and 1975 some Peugeot models (e.g. Peugeot 204) the lion on the emblem was turned to the left, and not to the right, as it is now. This was due to the peculiarities of stamping metal badges.
Peugeot models with the lion emblem: from retro to modern
If you are looking for a car with a lion, then the models Peugeot - the most obvious choice. Here are the key cars where the emblem plays a special role:
| Model | Years of production | Features of the emblem | Average price on the secondary market (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peugeot 205 | 1983–1998 | Classic lion on shield, chrome badge | 150 000 – 400 000 ₽ |
| Peugeot 406 Coupé | 1997–2005 | Lion integrated into the radiator grille, premium design | 600 000 – 1 200 000 ₽ |
| Peugeot RCZ | 2010–2015 | Lion on the hood in 3D icon format, sporty style | 1 500 000 – 2 500 000 ₽ |
| Peugeot 3008 (2nd generation) | 2016–present time | Lion without shield, minimalistic design | 2 000 000 – 3 500 000 ₽ |
| Peugeot e-208 | 2020–present time | Digital lion on charging pad, glowing emblem | 2 500 000 – 3 800 000 ₽ |
Stands apart Peugeot 9X8 - a hypercar introduced in 2022. Here the lion is not just on the emblem, but integrated into aerodynamic body elements: its silhouette can be seen in the lines of the front splitter. This is the first time the brand has used a symbol so deeply in its design.
Inspect the badge for chips (the original is coated with protective varnish)|Check the fastening - on new models a hidden bolt is used|Compare the color of the emblem with the VIN code (on some models the color of the lion depends on the configuration)|Make sure that the lion is facing to the right (on retro models it may be to the left)-->
Legal nuances: is it possible to use the lion emblem?
The lion emblem is registered trademark, protected by international patent laws. For example, a logo Peugeot registered in Nice Classification (class 12 - vehicles) and is protected in all EU countries, the USA, China and Russia. This means that:
- ⚖️ Prohibited use the logo on non-original spare parts (for example, wheel covers or stickers) without a license.
- ⚖️ Fines for counterfeiting emblems can reach 500 000 ₽ for individuals (Article 14.10 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation).
- ⚖️ Exception: It is allowed to use a stylized image of a lion if it is more than 70% similar to the original (according to WIPO rules).
An interesting incident occurred in 2019, when a Chinese company Changan released a model CS75 Plus with an emblem resembling a lion Peugeot. The French brand filed a lawsuit, and the court ordered Changan change icon design. This proves that even indirect similarities can lead to legal consequences.
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Peugeot Check to see if the emblem has been replaced. Non-original badges (for example, from AliExpress) can cause problems when registering with the traffic police if the inspector suspects forgery of documents.
How does a lion emblem affect the value of a car?
Brand symbolism directly affects perceived value car. Company research J.D. Power (2022) showed that cars with recognizable emblems (like a lion Peugeot or a bull Lamborghini) are sold at 12–15% more expensive analogues without bright symbolism. This is due to:
- 💰 Emotional attachment — buyers are willing to overpay for the “story” of the brand.
- 💰 Brand loyalty — owners Peugeot often remain loyal to the brand when purchasing their next car.
- 💰 Secondary market - retro models with a lion (for example, Peugeot 504 Coupé) are prized by collectors.
However, there is a downside: some models Peugeot lose value due to stereotypes about reliability. For example, Peugeot 307 (2001–2011) on the secondary market is 20% cheaper than similar ones Volkswagen Golf the same year, despite similar technical characteristics. Here the lion emblem works against the brand.
To objectively assess the impact of the emblem on the price, use the following algorithm:
- Compare similar models without strong symbolism (for example, Peugeot 3008 vs Citroën C5 Aircross).
- Check sales statistics at
Auto.ruorAvitoover the last 3 months. - Consider region: in Europe Peugeot valued higher than in Russia.
When selling Peugeot Emphasize the history of the emblem in the ad - this can increase buyer interest. For example: "Exclusive model with original lion emblem from the 1990s, preserved in perfect condition."
Unusual facts about lion cars: what didn't you know?
A lion on a car is not only a logo, but also a whole layer of cultural references. Here are some little known facts:
1. Lion as a racing mascot. In the 1920s and 1930s, pilots Peugeot in 24 Hours of Le Mans They painted a lion on the hood of their cars for good luck. Today this tradition is being revived: in 2023 the team Peugeot Sport used a special lion livery for the hypercar 9X8.
2. Secret code in the emblem. On the model Peugeot 605 (1989–1999) the lion emblem was hidden microchip with the car's serial number. This was done to combat theft.
3. Lion in the cinema. The car with the lion emblem became iconic thanks to the film "Taxi" (1998), where the main character drives a Peugeot 406. After the release of the film, sales of this model increased by 40% in France.
4. An emblem that glows. On electric vehicles Peugeot e-208 and e-3008 The lion on the charging panel is illuminated in blue while charging and green when the battery is full.
5. Lion as a symbol of security. In 2020 Peugeot registered a patent for the emblem, which changes color in case of an accident (from silver to red) thanks to a special coating. The technology has not yet been introduced into production models.
The lion emblem is not just decoration, but part of the technical and cultural history of the brand. It can influence the cost, perception and even functionality of a car (as is the case with illuminated logos on electric cars).
How to choose a car with a lion emblem: practical tips
If you decide to buy a car with a lion emblem, pay attention to the following nuances:
1. Determine the purpose of the purchase:
- 🚗 For the city — Peugeot 208 or e-208 (compact, economical).
- 🏞️ For family — Peugeot 5008 (7 seats, high ground clearance).
- 🏁 For speed — Peugeot RCZ or 308 GTi (sports versions).
2. Check the history of the emblem: On retro models (before the 2000s), the lion could be made of metal, which today is considered a sign of collectibility. On new cars, the emblem is plastic, but with a protective coating against UV rays.
3. Consider the cost of service: Peugeot with turbo engines (for example, 1.6 THP) require more frequent oil changes (every 10,000 km instead of the standard 15,000).
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Peugeot with mileage, be sure to check the condition AdBlue (for diesel models after 2015). A faulty system can prevent the engine from starting, and its repair costs 30 000–50 000 ₽.
4. Pay attention to the package: In top versions (for example, Peugeot 3008 GT) the lion emblem is duplicated on:
- Steering wheel (embroidered with thread).
- Illuminated thresholds (projected when the door is opened).
- Ignition key (laser engraving).
The condition of the paintwork under the emblem (corrosion often begins there)|The operation of electric drives (in new models the lion on the emblem can be illuminated by LED)|The presence of the original badge (on retro models it is often stolen by collectors)|The VIN code matches the data in the title (on some models the VIN is duplicated under the emblem)-->
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about cars with a lion
Why did Peugeot choose a lion and not another animal?
The lion was chosen in 1847 as a symbol of strength, flexibility and speed - qualities important to the metalworking industry with which the company began. In addition, the lion was associated with the region of Franche-Comté (homeland of the Peugeot family), where the animal was depicted on coats of arms.
Is it possible to put the lion emblem on another car?
Technically possible, but it violates copyright Peugeot. If you are using the emblem on a vehicle of another brand (for example, VAZ), this can be regarded as unfair competition (Article 14.10 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation). The exception is if you are making a stylized copy that is more than 30% similar to the original.
What is the most expensive car with a lion emblem?
Today it is Peugeot 9X8 (2022) - a hypercar with a hybrid power plant 700 hp Its price starts from 2.5 million euros, and in collectible versions can reach 3.5 million. For comparison, the retro model Peugeot 402 Darl'Mat (1930s) at auctions goes for 1–1.5 million ₽.
Are there any cars with a lion that are not Peugeot?
Yes, but they are less known. For example:
- Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (2015–present) - On some versions the lion appears as part of the racing livery.
- MG ZT-T (2001–2005) - versions with a lion emblem on the grille were sold in the UK.
- Vauxhall VXR8 - British version Holden Commodore, where the griffin in the emblem partially resembles a lion.
How to care for the lion emblem on your car?
Emblems Peugeot covered with a protective varnish, but require careful care:
- Wash icon soft sponge without abrasives.
- For chrome emblems use special polish (for example, Sonax Chrome Cleaner).
- Treat the emblem for the winter silicone greaseto prevent corrosion of the fasteners.
- If the emblem is plastic (on newer models), avoid high pressure washers — a jet of water can damage the LED backlight.