Sydney show: Peugeot in three-pronged attack

PEUGEOT unveiled its three star attractions for 2001 in Sydney - the luxurious 607 sedan, the funky 206CC convertible and the new boss of the Australian distributorship, Chris Downie.

Mr Downie, who recently transferred from Volkswagen Australia, predicted a bright future for the French car-maker in Australia.

"Peugeot's growth will be driven primarily by the brand's exciting new products, and the 206CC and 607 are clear evidence of that," Mr Downie said.

Both the 607 and 206CC were making their first appearance in Australia, the latter less than two months after its world debut at the Paris show.

It is expected to go on sale in Australia in the second quarter of 2001.

At the touch of a button, the 206CC's metal roof folds up into the boot in just 16 seconds, transforming the car from coupe to cabriolet.

The front section of the car is identical to its hatchback stablemate but the design of the windscreen, as well as its angle, have been revised and the pillarless side windows can be totally lowered into the door.

The car will be built with the choice of an 82kW, 1.6-litre engine or 102kW 2.0-litre, as found in the 206GTI.

Standard specification in Australia is planned to include air-conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows, remote central locking and CD stereo.

Safety equipment levels are strong with anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, front and side airbags, pyrotechnic seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and anti-submarining seats all standard.

The 607, which goes on sale mid-2001 for about $80,000, is loaded down with equipment, although there is only one engine choice - an upgraded 157kW version of the 3.0-litre V6 seen in the 406 SV.

Features include a claimed world first nine-setting suspension system as well as electronic sensors to detect loss of tyre pressure, curtain airbags, a clutch of electronic driving aids, reversing sensors and a new generation automatic transmission.

Conventional luxuries in the Aussie-spec car include a 12-speaker stereo, full leather trim, electrically adjustable front seats, multi-function trip computer, climate control air-conditioning, anti-lock brakes and 17-inch alloy wheels.