Peugeot reveals 308 CC

Peugeot has released the first images and details of its all-new 308 CC, the latest member of its folding-hardtop convertible family.

Due to make its world debut at October's Paris motor show, the newcomer is set to replace the existing 307 CC, which has been offered here since February, 2004.

Derived from the new 308 hatchback (more here), the CC (for Coupe-Cabrio) retains the same basic theme as its predecessor, but its styling is somewhat more adventurous, thanks to a bolder, more aggressive snout and a sportier derriere that features a diffuser built into the rear bumper.

Peugeot aficionados may notice some similarities with the 308 RC Z concept revealed at last year's Frankfurt motor show.

Australian spec and pricing will be announced closer to its local launch date, but among the 308 CC's technical highlights is the availability of a new 2.0 litre HDi FAP (turbodiesel) engine that pumps out 105kW and meets Euro 5 emission standards.

Peugeot claims the retractable roof can be lowered or deployed in 20 seconds and the "four full size seats" are claimed to offer increased rear legroom.

The 308 CC has wider front and rear tracks vis-à-vis its forerunner, which should bring some dynamic gains, and the French carmaker is also boasting of "excellent structural rigidity.

It comes armed with a full complement of airbags -- including chest/pelvis side airbags built into the front seats and a side head airbag, which is billed as a world first, allegedly guaranteeing effective protection of all parts of the body regardless of seat position.

Also standard are active rear roll-over protection bars, designed to boost occupant protection in the event the Peugeot ends up shiny side down.

Peugeot has also taken a leaf out of the Mercedes-Benz design manual by mimicking the German marque's 'Airscarf' feature with its 'Airwave' warm air heating system built into the front seats.

As per the Benz system, Airwave acts like a scarf by diffusing warm air -- adjustable for temperature, flow and direction -- around the occupants' shoulders and neck. Just the thing for frigid Canberra mornings...

Boot space is one aspect that normally suffers in hard-hatted convertibles, but the Pug's luggage bay can swallow a generous 465 litres with the roof up or 266 litres when it's lowered.

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