by Trish Whelan. Launched to the Irish motoring press in France this week, Peugeot's new 107 small car won't go on sale here until January 2006. But a version will be on show in each Peugeot dealership by the end of this year.
The car is one of the products of a joint venture between PSA Peugeot-Citroen and Toyota.
Mark O'Connell of Peugeot Ireland said "The 107 is a reliable, robust, hassle-free, basic car, not loaded with goodies or technology. We will be emphasising its city savvy and handling performance in town, its economic running, roominess, low emission levels, and passive safety."
Pictured with the car are Peugeot Ireland's Mark O'Connell and Emma Toner.
This four-seater will be available in 3- and 5-door versions. The range includes three engines, a 1.0 manual, 1.0 2-Tronic, and a 1.4HDi manual. Customers can choose from eight body colours and two finish levels.
Peugeot will be targetting their existing 9,000 Peugeot 106 drivers here about the new car as well as looking to a large number of conquest sales. They expect the 107 to appeal to multi-car households and in particular couples with or without kids, or single people living at home. And maybe more to younger females. These target groups account for 40-58% of A segment customers here.
Standard items on the 107 include ABS, EBFD, electric power steering, dual airbags, and ESP (from 2007), 14-inch wheels (and a spare), single-blade front wiper, Radio-CD player. There is no multi-function screen or multiplexing in the car.
All three of the joint venture cars are built at a new plant at Kolin in the Czech Republic which has a capacity of 320,000 vehicles a year. Mark O'Connell hopes to have around 500 of these units for 2006, subject to availability.
Prices have yet to be announced.
While its joint venture companion, the Toyota Aygo, offers a three year warranty, PSA have decided on a 2-year one for the Peugeot.
Competitors include its joint venture sibling, the Toyota Aygo (and forthcoming Citroen C1), Fiat Panda, Kia Picanto, Ford Ka, Chevrolet Matiz, Opel Agila, and Smart Fortwo.
