Peugeot 308 CC

Peugeot has lifted the lid on its summer star, the Peugeot 308 CC.

With four full-size seats and a large boot, the new 308 CC might just be the practical drop top sun-seekers have been waiting for, offering 3-Series Convertible thrills for a fraction of the cost.

The newcomer retains a similarly swoopy profile to the 307 CC it replaces, but has sharper body creases and oversized LED rear lights, and the interior features a raft of new technology - including a clever new Airwave system which wraps a ‘scarf’ of warm air around the shoulders and necks of occupants.

Changes under the skin incorporate a wider front and rear track to improve the handling and bigger brakes. And in a production car first, the new coupé-cabrio features a side head airbag.

The 308 CC is due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show before going on sale in early 2009, but for all the details on the French newcomer make sure you pick up issue 1,021 of Auto Express, on sale Wednesday 16th July.