Peugeot Baby Slides Into View

The chunky newcomer is based on the same platform as the C2 and C3 from partner Citroen. It is 10cm shorter than a 206. However, when it arrives in British showrooms next May, the newcomer isn't intended to replace the ageing 106. Instead, a more conventional successor, the 107, launches next year.

A Peugeot spokesman told Auto Express that prices for the 1007 should start at around ΂£10,000, and the firm hopes to sell 18,000 cars in the first full year of UK sales, which is 2006.

As you would expect from a model priced above entry-level versions of the 206, the 1007 comes with a generous level of equipment. Seven airbags, electric power-steering, ESP stability control and air-con are standard-fit, although final specifications are still being decided. Flagship models will be available with voice-activated satellite-navigation and a huge panoramic glass sunroof.

As these pictures show, the gaping grille and cat-like 'eyes' provide the supermini with Peugeot's new corporate look. However, the 1007 is best seen from the rear, where the rails for the sliding doors integrate neatly with a classy metal panel. Sadly, though, engineers couldn't fit the handle mechanism inside the openings, so it stands proud of the body and looks rather clumsy.

The doors themselves are more than a metre long and weigh 40kg each. They provide excellent access to the interior and can even be operated using the key fob. When open, they stay within the width of the door mirrors, making the car ideal for parking in narrow spaces. Despite its spacious interior, the 1007 is only a four-seater, but the two rear chairs slide forwards and backwards to create more luggage space. When larger loads are being carried, they fold out of the way.

A selection of 12 colour-coded kits will allow customers to personalise their model's cabin. Priced at around ΂£175 each, the packs include zip-in seat panels, air vent surrounds and door panels, and take just minutes to fit. Owners will get a second set with every car. There will be a selection of three engines at launch. Buyers will be able to choose from 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol powerplants, or opt for a 1.4-litre HDi diesel. Backing the 1007's urban credentials, Peugeot's new 2 Tronic clutchless manual transmission will also be available.

The gearbox will be an option with the smaller petrol engine and the only choice for buyers of the 1.6-litre unit. The two-pedal set-up can operate as a fully automatic shift or allow the driver to select ratios sequentially via the gearstick or column-mounted paddles.