The Peugeot 206, a sales success in Australia and world-wide, is set to broaden it's appeal with the introduction of two new model variants – the stylish 5 door XR model powered by a 1.4 litre engine, and the sophisticated CC (Coupe/Cabriolet) now available in the 1.6 litre version with a manual gearbox.
In the highly competitive European market, the 206 was the best selling car in the last six months of 2001, and the market leader in it's segment over the full year, with sales of 627,370 units. Interestingly, this was a 13% increase over 2000. On the local front, 1465 examples were sold in Australia during 2001, an impressive 39.6% increase compared to the previous year.
The 206 Range – Unique Alternatives
The Peugeot 206 range features an impressive choice of models; for those looking for a well-equipped hatchback that's fun to drive, to those wanting the renowned performance of the GTi or the chic style and elegance of the Coupe Cabriolet.
The New 1.4 litre 206 XR
The new starting point of the 206 range represents genuine value for money and is now powered by a 1.4 litre engine. Available as a 5-door only, pricing begins at $19,990 for the manual version, and $21,990 for the automatic.
The 1.4 litre engine develops 55 kW at 5500rpm, and peak torque of 120 Nm at a very useable 2800rpm. Weighing only 950kg (manual version), and with a broad torque range, the XR 1.4 offers a rewarding drive, conveying drivers to their destinations with a minimum of fuss. Fuel economy figures of 6.6 litres per 100km are outstanding, and serve to enhance the overall affordability of this new model.
Available with the options of a 5 speed manual gearbox or a four speed automatic, the 206 XR 1.4 model with it's stylish design and modern flair, will appeal to a broad range of buyers who are looking for European quality at an affordable price.
Well equipped, included in the standard price are a driver's side airbag, air-conditioning, front electric windows, six speaker CD/radio player with steering column mounted audio controls, remote central locking, engine immobiliser, height adjustable three spoke steering wheel and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat.
Safety is a Peugeot priority, and both active and passive safety features are clearly evident in the XR 1.4.
For Peugeot the first aspect of safety is avoiding crashes, and it is principally the specification of the suspension components and their performance which determines behaviour on the road. The 206's optimized chassis and suspension delivers dynamic response and tenacious road holding. Suspension is fully independent, with Macpherson type struts at the front and trailing arms at the rear. Front and rear anti roll bars are also a feature of the suspension set up.
The driver's side airbag is now of the 'SMART' variety, and responds according to the force of an impact. Pre-tensioned and force limiting front seatbelts are standard, and the back seat features three, 3-point seatbelts. Doors that automatically unlock in the event of an accident, a 'door ajar' warning light and a car location device via the remote locking key are further features found standard on the 206 XR 1.4.
The 206 XR 1.4 model is on sale now, priced at $19,990 for the manual and $21,990 for the automatic.
New Addition to the 'CC' Range
In October 2001, Peugeot Automobiles Australia launched the stunning, innovative and technologically advanced 206 Coupe Cabriolet.
Originally available as an 80 kW 1.6 litre automatic or a 100 kW 2.0 litre manual, the CC is now available in the 1.6 litre version with a 5 speed manual gearbox. Pricing for the CC, already exceptionally competitive given its generous equipment levels and unique metal-folding roof, now starts at $35,990 for the 1.6 litre manual model.
The 206 CC is essentially two cars in one. Able to be converted in seconds from an elegant coupe to a sleek and sporty cabriolet, the driver has the freedom to choose his or her style of motoring without compromising accommodation, practicality or Peugeot's renowned driving dynamics.
The 206 CC shares the sedan's basic elements such as wheelbase and track, drive train and forward floorpan. The central and rear parts of the car are either heavily reinforced or completely new, ensuring optimum rigidity and Peugeot's legendary driving dynamics.
The 206 CC's solid retractable roof is controlled by a single console-mounted switch, and takes approximately 20 seconds to open or close once the two front catches are manually unlocked.
The CC range boasts comprehensive safety and equipment levels that include ABS, EBFD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), automatic climate air conditioning, driver, passenger and side air bags, and a CD sound system. Both models receive as standard alloy wheels, with the 1.6-litre running on 15" rims and the 2.0-litre on 16" rims.
Front suspension is triangulated pseudo McPherson strut with a 20mm "uncoupled" anti-roll bar. At the rear, specially designed torsion bars are used along with a 19mm anti-roll bar. Steering is rack and pinion, with engine-speed power assistance
Four-wheel disk brakes are standard on both models, the front being 266mm ventilated, the rear 247mm. ABS is standard, along with electronic brake force distribution (EBFD). EBFD divides the force of braking between the front and rear, and also, in the case of the rear brakes, between the right and left sides.
Inside, the layout of the front seats, instrument panel and door panels are identical to that of 206 saloon, so the 206 CC benefits from the same driving position and acknowledged ergonomics. Power windows can be remotely controlled and the side mirrors are heated and power operated.
The sports-style front seats are trimmed in cloth, as are the rear seats, glovebox panel and door trims. For those wanting even more refinement, an option of full leather trim is available.
206 CC's style is a pleasing mix of fashion, form and function. The bumpers (a sports front bumper is fitted to the 2.0-litre) incorporate fog lights, and are colour-coded – as are the rear view mirrors, number plate surround and door handles.
A stylised aluminium fuel filler cap evokes a sporting image, and is reminiscent of that of the 206 GT.
The 206 CC featuring the 1.6 litre engine and a five speed manual gearbox is one sale now, priced at $35,990.