A NEW Peugeot 207 coupecabriolet is set to replace the successful 206 CC. It will have the 1.6 litre petrol engine which PSA Citroen/Peugeot group developed with BMW.

The new model will face strong competition from the Nissan Micra CC and the Opel Tigra CC but there is confidence in the French camp that the new stylish looks of the 207 and the powerful 115 bhp engine will be strong selling points.

There are bigger output versions of the engine available (130 bhp and 150 bhp) which may be offered to customers in some mainland Euopean countries.

The 207 CC was seen at the Paris Motor Show in concept form as the 'EPure'. The show car sported roll-over bars behind the second row of seats which are to be carried into the production model for extra safety. The roadgoing version will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Peugeot will also launch its new medium-sized SUV, the 4007, with diesel engines providing the power for the first batch to be launched in Europe.

Commander assumes lead role

DESPITE fears of punitive taxes on large SUVs in the budget next month there is still a big demand.

The Jeep Commander has a distinct design and sells for 65,995. The Daimler Chrysler power plant gives top power and torque while the latest Mercedes Benz technology V6 turbo-charged engine combines with a highpressure Bosch fuel injection system. Particulate filters are used and Euro-4 emission standards are achieved. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.

The Commander shares a lot of technology with the Grand Cherokee. The suspension is pitched towards precision tarmac driving and good off-road capability. The straight-up lines of the windscreen and body panels give it a strong road presence with the 'Jeep' look very much in evidence. But inside the emphasis is on comfort and space.

The seating is very interesting, laid out theatre style in three rows for seven passengers, though it still has 170 litres of luggage space and this can be extended to 945 litres with just five aboard.

Those inclined to take to the Commander style of transport are unlikely to let a little thing like the budget spoil their fun.