The Peugeot 206 – Europe's best selling car for the past two years – is set to become even more sought after in Australia, thanks to a series of subtle and stylish enhancements. Combined with a host of improvements to specification and equipment levels since the car was launched here, today's 206 is an even more attractive option.
The changes apply across the 206 range, which features an impressive array of models; for those looking for a well-equipped hatchback that's fun to drive, to those wanting the renowned performance of the GTi or the chic style and elegance of the Coupe Cabriolet.
Externally, the stylish changes are evident and include the introduction of a new honeycomb front grille, polycarbonate clear headlight lenses, uniform coloured rear light lenses (same as the 307), and a bolder, full chrome Peugeot lion badge on the back of all models.
A body coloured number plate housing has also been introduced across the range, while the GTi now sports body coloured front bumpers and side rubbing strips.
The popular 206 XR model, which is priced from $19,990, in addition to the above changes now features a sports style rear bumper, as well as the choice of a new 'Couldouce' grey cloth trim.
The XT model benefits from further changes, such as a leather bound steering wheel, a leather bound gear knob (manual only), a 'flaked charcoal' style central instrument cluster surround, aluminium finished interior door handles, handbrake button and air vent sides. The external door handles are now body coloured, and the glove box handle is chrome plated.
The World Rally Championship bred 206 GTi, also receives a chrome plated glove box handle, and a new look instrument cluster with a black background and a chrome surround.
When first launched, the 206 pioneered the new Peugeot 'feline' look, with its swept back teardrop shaped headlights and pronounced 'smile', created by the large air scoop under the front bumper. With its fluid curves, short bonnet and forward positioned windscreen, the car's stylish and sophisticated look was quickly appreciated by consumers and became a winner.
The overall design has changed little since its launch, although new derivatives have been added: the Coupé Cabriolet in 2001 and the much anticipated 206 GTi '180', a 'pocket rocket' boasting 130kW of power.
While the design of the 206 has evolved only subtly, the amount of equipment and level of standard specification has increased enormously over the years, due largely to the introduction of multiplexing. This heralded the possibility of adding more electronic equipment to the car, and has seen the inclusion of features previously only found on more expensive cars; self illuminating headlights and rain sensing windscreen wipers for example, and important safety features such as ABS braking, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBFD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), as well as smart airbags for driver and passenger.
With its high levels of standard equipment and stylish good looks, the 206 represents exceptional value for money. With regards to the new enhancements, pricing for the 206 XR 3-door model and 206 XT model has increased by $500, while the remainder of the range is unchanged. Full pricing and specifications can be found on the Peugeot website:
www.peugeot.com.au