An affordable luxury convertible

Although Mercedes Benz was first to introduce the folding metal roof, French car-maker Peugeot were quick to follow suit. Initially, the 206CC was released with the brilliantly designed retractable roof and since 2004, the larger, quicker and more luxurious 307CC has shared the same feature.

Now, luxury convertibles are usually associated with luxury budgets. Not so with this smart and elegant Peugeot. The 307CC starts at $49,990 while the leather-soaked Sport comes in at $56,990. Serious money for serious style, but well away from the BMW or Mercedes price range.

The interior of the 307CC is comfortable and refined, with four adults seated nicely and top ergonomics in front, meaning long drives are a pleasure. Efficient layout of controls is a feature, not to mention the 6-slotted CD player.

Looks-wise, the 307CC is a genuine head-turner. The metal roof adds to the sleek styling, along with the hot Pirelli alloys, and while this Pug is no rocket, highway cruising is a quiet and enjoyable experience.

Standard features are plentiful and we very much like the responsive gearbox, with a nice little kick down low to get things moving. If you're considering a convertible, be sure to test drive a 307CC. Such luxury is affordable.

Peugeot 307cc Sport

Engine 2.0 litre V4, 130kW of power

Economy 9.5 litres per 100km (ave.)

Acceleration 0-100kph in 10 seconds

Transmission 5-speed manual

Price from $56,990

Features auto air-con, 17” Pirelli alloys, ABS, multiple air-bags, cruise control, 6 disc CD stacker, folding roof, park assist, leather upholstery, etc.

Airbags inflate your chance of survival

It's been 25 years since airbags were first deployed in a passenger vehicle (Mercedes Benz led the way) and the advances in technology and success rate for collision victims have risen dramatically.

Stats from accident research prove the effectiveness of airbags. Airbags installed in the front of vehicles reduce the risk of injury by a staggering 50%. Side airbags are not far behind, reducing the injury risk by 40%. More specifically, front airbags reduce the severity of head injuries by 75% and neck injuries by 70%.

Accident researchers are vehement in their support of airbags. “It's got to a stage now where people should steer away from any vehicle, new or used, that doesn't have a driver airbag,” says Ross McArthur, chairman of the Australian New Car Accident Protection steering committee.

Auto clubs announce 2005's best vehicles

The various state auto clubs along with the NRMA have just announced their much-anticipated “Top 12” for this year. Here are the winners for 2005:

Category & Model

Small car: Hyundai Getz
Mid-size (<$28,000): Ford Focus CL
Mid-size (>$28,000): Honda Accord Euro
Large car: Mitsubishi 380
People mover: Honda Odyssey
Sports car (<$57,000): VW Golf GTI
Sports car (>$57,000): Mercedes CLK350
Luxury car (<$57,000): Subaru Liberty 3.0R
Luxury car (>$57,000): Audi A6 TDi Quattro
Recreational 4WD: Ford Territory Ghia
Luxury 4WD: Lexus RX 300 Sport
Best 4WD: Land Rover Discovery 3 SE

Christmas wishes to all from AFM

On behalf of the AFM staff, I would like to personally thank our wonderful network of affiliated partners, suppliers, and our past and present clients. And for those looking for a new vehicle, please don't call on Christmas Eve and expect delivery before Christmas Day!

All the best,

Robert Stoney
Director
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Click on the month for previous columns:

November 2005
October 2005