Peugeot has released details of its brand new mid-size hatch, the 307, which will bring new levels of luxury and driveability to the compact class. The car will be shown in Europe for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in March, before going on sale progressively across Europe during 2001. Australia should see the new 307 in early 2002.
The 307 has been designed around customers' expectations of what a compact hatch should provide in the 21st century. As a result, the 307 combines superb levels of functionality and dynamism, along with a secure and pleasing interior.
From the outside, the 307 steals many cues from Peugeot's 'Prometheus' concept shown at the 2000 Paris Motor Show, especially the distinctive nose treatment, muscular flanks and large 1.46 square metre windscreen.
The 307 is also unusual in terms of technological content, with an array of features available: ABS with electronic braking distribution, emergency braking assistance (with automatic hazard warning), ESP stability control and active rear seat with anti-subsidence headrests, not to mention seatbelt pretensioners and front, side and curtain airbags.
As a result of these innovations, and the car's immensely strong safety cell, the 307 is expected to offer class-leading protection to its occupants.
The 307 will be available in its home market with a range of sophisticated telematics systems, whose functions include satellite navigation, voice recognition and automatic calling of emergency services.
The car's well finished interior clearly marks this out as a premium entrant in the compact class, and Peugeot have also striven to make the 307 both more luxurious and exciting to drive than its illustrious predecessors.
Peugeot Concessionaires will be able to choose from an engine range which includes 16 valve 1.6 and 2.0 litre petrol variants, while Peugeot's world-leading diesel technology can be found in its refined HDi variant. A very high performance version is also understood to be in development.
The 307 should arrive in Australia early in 2002, and will no doubt provide a strong challenge to the Honda Civic, BMW 3 series compact, and Volkswagen Golf / Audi A3.