Peugeot 308 CC: Stylish Compact Convertible

Motoring Channel Staff - 14/July/2008

Paris, France — Peugeot's next generation tin-top convertible has broken cover ahead of its Paris Motor Show unveiling in September 2008.

The impending new model comes on the back of a significant milestone, as Peugeot celebrated the manufacture of its 50 millionth vehicle in France late last month.

Building on the sleek proportions of the new Peugeot 308 hatchback and sporting an avant garde French style, the new model will electronically transform from a sporty coupe into a stylish convertible in 20 seconds at the press of a button.

Taking some its design elements from the 308 RC Z concept, revealed at the 2007 Frankfurt motor show, the new Peugeot 308 convertible will incorporate a range of new luxury features.

One of newest features is the 'Airwave' system.

Borrowing the 'air scarf' idea pioneered by Mercedes-Benz, the new Peugeot 308 CC can gently direct warm air from the heater system through vents in the front seat headrests to warm the necks and shoulders of front seat occupants.

Peugeot's Airwave system "acts like a scarf by diffusing warm air adjustable for temperature, flow and direction around the occupant's shoulders/neck" states the French car maker.

Peugeot has really gone to town with its new 308 CC, which has a sleek, flowing profile whether the roof is open or closed.

The front end design has a keen sports edge to it that bears a slightly modified version of the Peugeot 308 hatchback's visage, while the rear end continues the sporty treatment with a subtle rear diffuser, stylised LED brake light pattern, and a small lip spoiler.

It's perhaps inside the vehicle, however, that will be of most interest to potential buyers, as the Peugeot 308 CC boasts a plethora of luxury features.

As well as promising "rear accommodation that is surprisingly generous for a cabriolet" the new 308 CC features 'integral leather' interior trim, generous leather sports seats, climate control, rain sensing wipers, and even the "automatic remote-control locking of interior storage compartments" such as the glove box and central armest - useful if the roof is down and you need to grab something from the shops.

The car is wider than previously which increases interior room, and the boot offers a very decent 465 litres of space (266 litres with the roof folded down), which will allow for leisure pursuits such as golfing or fishing.

Peugeot has confirmed that it's working on developing a range of high end audio-visual and communication systems in time for the new model's release, including:

• MP3 CD audio, USB Box, iPod, MP3 connectivity, hands-free phone kit

• Satellite navigation system with a MP3 CD audio, Bluetooth, and retractable 7-inch 16/9 colour screen

• Top-of-the-range satellite navigation system, 30GB hard disc with juke box function, MP3 CD audio system, integral mobile phone, Bluetooth functionality, USB connector, retractable, high-resolution 7-inch 16/9 colour screen with a 3D display

• JBL Hi-fi option with 10 speakers

Power will initially come from a newly developed turbo diesel engine that meets stringent Euro V emissions standards. The 2.0-litre HDi engine outputs 104 kilowatts of power (140hp) and is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox (though automatic transmissions are expected down the track).

Safety systems have been extended and along with ESP, ABS and other stability increasing driving aids, and there's now a full suite of airbags. This includes "chest/pelvis side airbags built into the front seats and a side head airbag which is a world first, guaranteeing effective protection of all parts of the body regardless of seat position" states Peugeot. There's also active roll bars, that deploy in the event of a roll-over.      

Peugeot's avant garde 308 CC will make its debut at the 2008 Paris Motor Show in September.

Related articles:
- Peugeot 308 (Road Test)
- Peugeot 308 GT (2008)
- Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept (2007)
- Peugeot 207 GTi (Road Test)
- Peugeot Flux Concept (2007)
- Peugeot 308 Hybrid HDi & SW (2007)
- Peugeot 207 GT (Road Test)
- Peugeot 207 CC (2007)
- Peugeot 407 Coupe HDi (Road Test)
- Peugeot 307 HDi (Road Test)
- Peugeot 4007 SUV (2007)
- Peugeot Spider 207 (2007)