And to give the public a glimpse at the full 207 range, Peugeot displayed two new models at the show.

World Premieres for 207

Peugeot decided to give Australians a sneak preview of the new 207 CC and the new 207 GTi, ahead of their anticipated launch mid-year. Both cars were air-freighted from France especially for the show and make their world-wide debut just days ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, meaning, of course, that the international debut was made at Melbourne and not Geneva.

The 207 CC is a worthy successor to the best-selling 206 CC, of which 360,000 units have been sold globally. While benefiting from all of the hatchback’s attributes, the 207 CC is aimed at those who appreciate design and attractive feline style. The foldaway roof is fully automatic, benefiting from high-quality materials and strong security features combined with a class-leading dynamic experience.

Peugeot can claim the honour of producing the world’s first convertible with a metal folding roof, the 402 Eclipse, way back in 1937 when it made its world debut at that year’s Paris Fair. In the modern era, again it was the Peugeot that really brought hard top convertible technology within reach of most, with the stylish yet affordable 206 CC. Followed by the 307 CC and now the 207CC, Peugeot has once more is at the forefront of the trend that is began some 70 years ago.

Another world premiere is the debut of the 207 GTi that continues the line of sporting legends – the 206 and 205 GTi. The 207 GTi inspires a driving sensation to satisfy the ‘enthusiast in everyone’, that can still be enjoyed on an everyday basis.

The 207 GTi has a personality that is big on stamina and features the latest 1.6-litre THP (Turbo High Pressure) petrol engine with turbo direct injection, producing 128 kW and an amazing delivery of 240 Nm of torque from just 1,600 rpm – the result of a collaboration between PSA Peugeot Citroën and the BMW Group.