FIRSTDRIVE PEUGEOT 308CC:The new Peugeot 308CC convertible is big in size and small in emissions, writes PADDY COMYN
WHILE ONE new model from Peugeot, the 3008, has been designed to make an impact on the market and bring new customers to the brand, the muted unveiling of the 308CC reflects how this segment – and Peugeot’s dominance in it – have been slighted by various factors, including an increase in rivals in the segment and the economic downturn.
Despite Ford’s, Volkswagen’s and Opel’s arrival into the Coup Cabriolet segment, Peugeot still has, pardon the pun, the lion’s share, albeit with its smaller 207CC version. The 307CC has been a harder sell, certainly in Ireland, where Peugeot still have stocks of the 307CC to sell and, until such time as these are shifted, they seem less interested in pushing the new 308CC.
Having driven the new car you can sort of see why. Yes, it is better looking, marginally. The 307CC wasnt exactly ugly but was afflicted with a generously proportioned rear-end. The 308CC has the more open-mouthed styling cues of the 308 hatchback but has also grown. The new car is longer, wider and has a larger front and rear track, which Peugeot say serves to improve the overall dynamic performance.
Highlights include, obviously, the folding metal hood and a new air conditioning system that adapts to open-top motoring. As an option, there is an Airwave system to diffuse warm air around the front occupants necks, like a warm scarf.
While the 307CC was sold primarily in Ireland as a 1.6-litre petrol version, the 308CC will most likely be a 1.6-litre 110bhp diesel, which will keep the initial VRT and running costs down (with 138g/km of CO2 it is a Band B car, compared to the Band C emissions of what will eventually be the entry-level 120bhp 1.6-litre petrol model). It will be available by January 2010. Until then, Peugeot will sell you a 307CC Eclipse for €29,995, which is about €6,000 less than the new car is likely to cost. It comes with front fogs and leather upholstery and that isn’t bad value at all.
Factfile Peugeot 308CC
Engine:1560cc turbodiesel putting out 110bhp and 270Nm torque
Performance:0-100km/h, 13.1 seconds. Maximum Speed, 192km/h
CO2 Emissions:138g/km
Annual Road Tax:Band B; €157 per annum
Price:TBC, probably €36,000
Available:January 2010