Cars with the Lion brand: a complete guide to Peugeot models

When it comes to cars with a lion emblem, 99% of car enthusiasts immediately think of the logo Peugeot - a French automaker with more than a century of history. This predator on hood badges has become not just a symbol of the brand, but a real legend of automotive design. But why a lion? And which models wear this proud badge today?

In this article we will examine not only the history of the appearance of the lion emblem, but also practical side of ownership such cars: from recognizing original badges to the nuances of servicing “lion” models. We will pay special attention to how to distinguish genuine Peugeot from replicas and why some owners specifically look for cars with the “old” version of the logo. If you are planning a purchase or are simply interested in the brand, you will find answers to all key questions here.

History of the logo: why did Peugeot choose the lion?

Communication Peugeot with a lion began back in 1847, when the company produced not cars, but... saws, coffee grinders and bicycles. Then the logo was a lion standing on an arrow - a symbol of speed, strength and flexibility of tools. Interestingly, the first image of a predator was embossed: it was stamped on metal products.

The transition to cars in 1889 did not change the essence: the lion remained, but evolved. In 1905, the first “automobile” version appeared - a lion’s head on the radiator grille. And in 1965 the design was simplified to what we know today stylized silhouette, which is easy to read even on miniature icons.

• 🦁 1847: A lion on instruments is a symbol of strength.
• 🚗 1905: First lion head on a car Peugeot Type 15.
• 🎨 1965: Modern minimalist logo.
• 🔄 2021: Rebranding - return to the voluminous lion on new models.

Fun fact: in 2021 Peugeot brought back the 3D lion on some models (for example, Peugeot 308 and 508), but already in the form LED backlight on the radiator grille. This is a tribute to tradition, combined with modern technology.

Which Peugeot models have the lion emblem?

All production cars Peugeot, released after 1965, are equipped with a lion logo - but with important nuances. Firstly, logo placement depends on the model and year of manufacture:

• 🚘 Sedans and hatchbacks (308, 508, 208): lion on the radiator grille and rear door.
• 🚙 Crossovers (2008, 3008, 5008): additional sign on the fifth door.
• 🚐 Commercial (Partner, Expert): a simplified logo without volume.
• ⚡ Electric cars (e-208, e-3008): Leo with a blue tint.

Secondly, there are exceptions for some markets. For example, in Iran from 2018 to 2022 they sold Peugeot 206 and 405 without a lion - instead there was an abstract ornament due to local cultural characteristics. Such cars can be easily identified by their VIN code with the prefix JMZ (assembled in Iran).

Model	Years of manufacture	Logo Features	Typical fakes
Peugeot 205	1983–1998	Small metal lion on the grille	Rough cast plastic replicas
Peugeot 406	1995–2004	Chrome lion on hood badge	Badges with dull finish
Peugeot 3008 (2-gen)	2016–present	3D lion with backlight (optional)	Chinese replicas with low quality LEDs
Peugeot e-208	2019–present	Leo with blue accent	Regular lions, repainted blue

⚠️ Attention: Often found on the secondary market Peugeot 406 and 607 with “updated” badges - scammers replace the original lions with modern ones, passing off old cars as new restyled versions. Always check that the logo matches the year of manufacture!

How to distinguish an original logo from a fake?

Fake emblems Peugeot common at disassembly sites and in online stores. Here 5 Key Signs, which can be used to identify a fake:

1. Material: The original badges until 2010 were made from brass with chrome plating, modern ones are made of ABS plastic with a metallized coating. Counterfeits are often made from cheap plastic that turns yellow in the sun.
2. Fastening: On the back of the original there is two plastic clips or threaded pin. Fake ones have adhesive tape or one hole.
3. Relief: A real lion has detailed mustache, eyebrows and mane. These details are blurred on copies.
4. Color: The backlight on new models has cool white shade (6000K). Cheap LEDs produce yellow light.
5. Marking: The original badges have a code stamped on the back side PSA (Peugeot-Citroën group) and batch number.

Inspect the material (brass/ABS plastic)

Check the fastening (clips or pin)

Study the relief of a lion (details of the mane and mustache)

Check backlight color (6000K for new models)

Find the PSA marking on the back-->

You should be especially careful with icons for Peugeot 206 and 307 - they are counterfeited most often due to the high demand for spare parts. If in doubt, compare the logo with official catalog (enter vehicle VIN in the search field).

Logo problems: what breaks and how to fix it?

Even original emblems Peugeot not eternal. Here are typical faults and how to fix them:

• 🔋 Tarnishing of chrome: Occurs due to oxidation. Solution - polishing with paste GOI or replacement with a new sign (article for Peugeot 308: 6420.T0).
• 💡 Backlight doesn't work: On models from 2021, check the fuse F37 (10A) in the block under the hood. If the light bulb is burnt out, replace it with W5W.
• 🧲 The magnetic fastener has fallen off: A common problem with Peugeot 5008. Glue the sign on double-sided tape 3M VHB.
• 🌧️ Water under the logo: A sign of a clogged radiator grille drain. Clean the holes under the bumper with wire.

For models with LED backlight (for example, Peugeot 3008 II) it is important to use only original lamps Peugeot 9822338680. Chinese analogues often flicker and overheat. If the backlight blinks, check the connector contacts X14 (it is located behind the bumper).

How to remove the logo for repair?

1. Open the hood and locate the two plastic clips on the back of the grille.

2. Carefully pry off the emblem with a plastic spatula (do not use metal - you will scratch the paint!).

3. Disconnect the backlight connector (if equipped).

4. For glued badges, heat the surface with a hairdryer to 60°C and remove with thread.

⚠️ Attention: On Peugeot 508 II (2018–present) the logo is integrated into the radiator grille. Trying to remove it yourself will lead to breakage of the latches - in this case, the entire grille will need to be replaced (article: 1612.T0, price ~12,000 rub.).

Legal nuances: is it possible to drive without a logo?

In Russia and EAEU countries the absence of a logo on a car is not a violation (clause 7.18 of the Technical Regulations of the Customs Union). However, there are two important exceptions:

1. If the sign was removed intentionally to hide the make of a car (for example, during theft), this is qualified under Art. 326 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (“Forgery or destruction of identification number”).
2. On commercial vehicles (Peugeot Boxer, Expert) the logo is part of the identification marks - its absence may result in a fine under Part 1 of Art. 12.5 Code of Administrative Offenses (500 rubles).

In Europe the rules are stricter: according to the directive EU 2018/858, changing or removing factory markings (including logos) requires re-registration of the vehicle. The fine for driving without a badge in France is 135 €, in Germany - up to 200 €.

If you have lost your logo, it is better to install an original or certified analogue. For example, for Peugeot 208 a sign from Hella (article 8GA 354 009-561), which complies with European standards.

Iconic “lion” models: what should a collector choose?

For connoisseurs of retro cars Peugeot offers several legendary models with a lion on the hood:

• 🏆 Peugeot 205 GTI (1984–1994): Hot hatch with logo on black grille. Today the cost of original copies reaches 1.5 million rubles..
• 🕰️ Peugeot 404 (1960–1988): First Peugeot, officially exported to the USSR. The lion on it is in relief, made of brass.
• 🚜 Peugeot J7/J9 (1981–2006): Minibus with an emblem on the front bumper. Rare model on the secondary market.
• ⚡ Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 (1984–1986): Rally version with a unique lion on the air intake. Price – from 3 million rub.

When purchasing retro models, pay attention to logo condition - it often becomes the object of counterfeiting. For example, on Peugeot 504 the original sign has three paws (symbol of the Franche-Comté region), and there are usually two of them on replicas.

Of interest to modern collectors are Peugeot 9X8 (2022) - hypercar with a logo integrated into aerodynamic body kit. Its lion is made of carbon fiber and illuminated in the body color.

Where to buy original spare parts with a lion?

Official emblems Peugeot Available from the following suppliers:

Supplier	Average prices	Benefits	Disadvantages
Official Peugeot dealers	2,500–8,000 rub.	Originality guarantee, VIN check	Long wait (2–4 weeks)
Mister-Auto.ru	RUB 1,200–4,500	Fast delivery, wide range	Risk of running into replicas (check reviews)
Exist.ru	1,800–6,000 rub.	Wholesale prices, availability of rare badges	The minimum order amount is RUB 3,000.
Avito/Yula (private owners)	500–3,000 rub.	You can bargain, sometimes you come across rarities	High risk of fakes (80% of ads)

Please check when purchasing part number. For example, for Peugeot 308 (2013–2017) the front logo has a number 6420.S3, and for Peugeot 5008 (2017–present) — 1612.T2. If the seller cannot name the article, this is a reason to doubt the authenticity.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about cars with a lion

Can the Peugeot logo be painted a different color?

Yes, but with reservations. The original emblems are coated with a special enamel that does not react with car paint. For repainting:

1. Remove the sign and degrease it White spirit.
2. Apply a plastic primer (eg Motip Primer).
3. Paint with acrylic paint (do not use nitro enamel - it will corrode the plastic!).
4. Varnish 2K for protection against chipping.

On backlit models (such as Peugeot 508) the paint may block the light - in this case it is better to buy a new sign in the desired color.

Why don't some Peugeots have a lion on the steering wheel?

Until 1998 on steering wheels Peugeot used coat of arms of the Franche-Comté region (three legs) instead of a lion. Also some special series (for example, Peugeot 206 CC "Roland Garros") had unique tennis racket emblems. On modern models, a lion on the steering wheel appeared only in 2010 (with the exception of basic configurations, where instead of a logo there may be an inscription PEUGEOT).

Which Peugeot with Lion is the most reliable for everyday driving?

According to ADAC (2023), the best reliability indicators among the “lion” models show:

• Peugeot 3008 II (2016–present) - less than 10 breakdowns per 1000 cars per year.
• Peugeot 208 II (2019–present) — optimal for the city (fuel consumption from 4.5 l/100 km).
• Peugeot 508 II (2018–present) — the best sedan in terms of price/quality ratio.

Avoid Peugeot 307 (2001–2008) and 407 (2004–2011) - they have problems with electrical and body corrosion.

Is it possible to put the Peugeot logo on another car?

Technically yes, but legally it is breaking the law. In Russia, according to Art. 1487 Civil Code of the Russian Federation, logo Peugeot is registered trademark, and its use on other vehicles can be regarded as:

• Unfair competition (Article 14.33 of the Administrative Code - fine up to 500,000 rub. for legal entities).
• Copyright infringement (Article 1252 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation).

The exception is if you are modifying the car to personal use (not for sale) and do not mislead about the brand of the car.

What does a lion looking left or right mean?

Direction of the lion's view in the logo Peugeot depends on market region:

• Left: Cars for Europe and Russia (symbolizes driving on the right side of the road).
• Right: Vehicles for the UK, Japan and Australia (driving on the left).
• Straight: Retro models up to the 1970s and special editions (e.g. Peugeot 9X8).

On fakes there are often lions with wrong direction of view - this is one of the signs of a fake.