Popular French Cars to Import to New Zealand

French cars, known for their innovative design and luxury look, are uniquely positioned in the global automotive market. For New Zealand importers, French vehicles offer an opportunity to introduce diversity and sophistication into their inventories. Whether you're drawn to luxury, efficiency, or iconic styling, French car brands deliver. 

As experts in international car shipping, we've compiled a list of the most popular French import cars that Kiwis are bringing into the country, highlighting their standout features and what makes them desirable in the NZ market.

Best New French Vehicles to Import

Peugeot 308

The Peugeot 308 is almost too good-looking for its class, setting a new standard for how stylish family cars can be. Available as a five-door hatchback, the true gem of the lineup is the SW estate version. It combines space, style, and practicality, offering a substantial boot that surpasses many SUVs and crossovers. Not only does it excel in cargo capacity, but it also provides an engaging driving experience with responsive handling and steering that shines on twisty roads.

For New Zealand importers, the Peugeot 308, especially the SW estate, presents an attractive blend of form and function, making it a compelling option for those looking to combine everyday usability with a touch of elegance.

DS 4

The DS 4 blends the uniquely French flair for luxury and comfort with practicality. The DS 4, a sleek, low-slung crossover, cleverly combines space efficiency with an elegant design, allowing it to rival models like the Audi A3 and BMW X1.

Not only is the DS 4 aesthetically pleasing, but it also offers a range of engine choices, from traditional petrol and diesel to more contemporary plug-in hybrids, catering to different preferences and needs. 

For New Zealand importers, the DS 4 offers a refreshing alternative to the conventional crossover, appealing to those looking for sophistication and a distinctive style in their vehicle choice.

Best Used French Vehicles to Import

Peugeot 3008

Starting strong, the Peugeot 3008 has made a significant impact worldwide. It is known for its stylish design and robust performance. This SUV combines practicality with luxury, making it a popular choice among families and professionals. Its award-winning status, including the European Car of the Year in 2017, underscores its appeal. 

The 3008 offers advanced safety features, a spacious interior, and fuel-efficient engine options, making it a compelling import option for eco-conscious drivers in New Zealand.

Citroen Berlingo

The Citroen Berlingo is a standout choice for anyone who needs a vehicle that's as practical as it is robust. Renowned for its spaciousness and durability, the Berlingo effectively meets the challenge of accommodating both kids and their myriad accessories. Unlike typical family cars, the Berlingo is essentially a van with seats, bringing exceptional utility without sacrificing comfort.

In New Zealand, importing a Citroen Berlingo could fill a specific niche in the market, appealing to those who prioritise practicality and need a vehicle that can handle the rigours of family life with ease. For those looking at utility over style, the Berlingo proves that practicality is indeed a virtue, not a compromise.

Best Classic French Cars to Import

Citroen DS

The original 1955 Citroen DS is not just a car but a piece of automotive history, often hailed as one of the greatest cars ever made. Upon its debut, the DS revolutionised the car industry with its futuristic design and advanced technology, making other cars of the era seem antiquated. Its spaceship-like appearance and the world's most sophisticated suspension system at the time turned heads and set new standards for automotive engineering. The DS's seats were as comfortable as sofas, offering an unrivalled riding experience.

While its complexity and maintenance requirements might not suit everyone, importing a classic Citroen DS to New Zealand could be rewarding for collectors and enthusiasts. Owning this iconic French car means possessing a marvel of historic innovation and potentially benefiting from its increasing value as a collector's item.

Renault Espace

The Renault Espace, once a trailblazer in the MPV category, sadly echoes the decline of multi-purpose vehicles on today's roads. A significant shift from the days when it was heralded as revolutionary. With its lightweight, glass-fibre body and versatile seating for seven, the Espace cleverly combined the functionality of larger vehicles within the compact footprint of a Ford Cortina. Each seat could swivel, fold flat, or be entirely removed, offering unprecedented flexibility for families and travellers.

For New Zealand importers, the Renault Espace represents a unique opportunity to reintroduce a classic model known for its ingenuity and practicality, appealing to a niche market that values heritage alongside functionality.

Found a French Import? We'll Get it to New Zealand

Importing French cars into New Zealand presents an exciting opportunity to cater to varied consumer tastes and preferences. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, French cars remain a symbol of sophistication and engineering prowess, making them a worthy addition to any collection.

If you want to import French cars to New Zealand, contact the team at Cars2NZ. We'll ensure a smooth importing experience every time.