Value-packed Peugeot 207 HDI

French manufacturer Peugeot will compete in the Le Mans series next year with a diesel/hybrid race car, the 908 HY. Ahead of the 2009 campaign, the company is launching a limited edition model of the 207 HDI in Australia.

The 207 HDI Le Mans Series will be imported in a batch of just 75 units, from the 2000-unit global production run. Only two colours will be available -- Bianca White and Obsidien Black -- but the car will be distinguished from the standard vehicle by red stripes running over the car's bonnet, roof and rear spoiler, plus a red, stylised lion's head on the doors and additional Le Mans Series logos on the tailgate. In addition, the limited edition model features body-colour finish for the side protection strips, bumpers and external mirrors.

Peugeot has priced the Le Mans 207 at $31,990, for which buyers will score a sports front bumper, 'Shadow' aluminium grille, black chrome headlights, 17-inch Pitlane alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and chrome exhaust extension.

Inside, aluminium highlights feature on the centre console and dash, with front and rear bucket seats trimmed in leather for the side bolsters and Alcantara inserts, contrasting by white stitching.

Further cosmetic enhancements inside include an aluminium finish ring for the steering wheel, sports instruments with white dials and aluminium trim for the gearshift lever knob, pedals, footrest and door sills.

Stability control, electric fold-in mirrors, dual-zone climate control, adaptive cornering headlights, reverse parking acoustic guidance, MP3-compatible audio system, carpet mat covers, dark window tinting for the rear windows and tailgate glass are all standard.

Powering the 207 Le Mans is the 1.6-litre HDI diesel with particulate filter and variable geometry turbocharger. Peugeot claims peak power of 80kW at 4000rpm and peak torque of 240Nm from 1750rpm. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle test for ADR81/01 is 4.8L/100km and CO2 emissions are 126g/km.

The 207 HDI Le Mans is on sale now.