Peugeot on a roll

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

The 307 hatchback has been responsible for much of Peugeot's sales success over the past 11 months.

More than 760 models have been sold since its December 1 launch and Peugeot expects to sell 900 in the first year, now that the stationwagon has joined the range.

The lineup will be boosted around this time next year when the four-seater coupe/cabriolet, or 307cc (left), arrives.

The car, big brother to the 206cc, was unveiled as a concept at the Paris motor show and will go into production early next year.

It is 120mm longer than the hatchback, due to a rear overhang to accommodate the power-operated folding roof and boot, but sits on the same 2610mm wheelbase. The suspension setup and wheels are similar, too.

The rear is highlighted by the diagonal tail-lights, which use diodes rather than bulbs, built into the bootlid and rear wings. The tailgate spoiler also houses a row of diodes which acts as a third brake-light.

The 307cc is expected to be powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder engine producing about 130kW (180bhp).

The first models to arrive will be manual only. A manual/automatic sequential-type transmission will come later.

Price? The 206cc is $42,990. At a wild guess, the bigger 307cc will be beyond $50,000.