Peugeot pioneered the concept of open-top driving, after early cars eventually got roofs, and is now launching the new 207 CC, successor to the 206 CC.

The 207 CC transforms from sleek sporty coupe into stylish cabriolet in 25 seconds. The power comes from a new 1.6-litre petrol 16v 120bhp or a 1.6-litre 16v 150bhp engine and there are three trim levels with prices starting at 26,350.

The 1.6-litre 120 bhp Sport 1 CC version has five airbags, a comprehensive anti-lock braking system, roll bars, an immobiliser, speed-sensitive electric power steering, electric windows, heated door mirrors, remote central locking, remote-control radio/CD player, front fog lamps and 16in alloy wheels.

For child safety the front passenger seat has a threepoint Isofix attachment system.

This engine model also comes with a Sport1 Pack . . .

leather upholstery, aluminium detailing and white instrument dials.

The 1.6-litre 150bhp Sport2 sells at 31,590 and adds a rear parking sensor, dual-zone climate control, electric folding mirrors, automatic headlights and wipers, 17in alloy wheels, MP3 player, directional headlights and a stability programme. This is a special order only model.

With the electric folding metal roof the boot space is 449 litres in the Coupe configuration, gaining 39 litres over its predecessor and 187 litres in the Cabriolet configuration, a gain of 12 litres. A spacesaver spare wheel is housed in the boot.

Peugeot first introduced the innovative concept of open-top driving in the 1930s when the company introduced the 401, 601 and 402 Eclipse Coupe/Cabriolets. At the end of 2000 the company launched the 206 CC with its folding electric roof.

The company has sold more than 500,000 CCs worldwide. The 206 CC led the way in the small-car B segment with more than 360,000 units produced, and is the world's bestselling small CC. The fourseater 307 CC has already sold over 150,000 units since its launch in 2003.

The European market for CCs increased nine-fold to around 150,000 units per year in the past five years.

Mark O'Connell, sales and marketing director of Gowan Distributors . . .

which imports Peugeots in Ireland . . . says he expects to sell up to 400 units this year and over 500 units in a full year.