) from this weeks Auto Express magazine (page 18). This should certainly make Peugeot sit up and worry for the 307CC############################################
Feast your eyes on this! Auto Express can blow the cover of the latest addition to the fastest-growing family of new cars in Europe. But this is no tin top. It’s the eagerly awaited replacement for the Renault Mégane convertible – and with it’s SLK-style metal folding roof, it’s a true coupé cabriolet.
It will join a revitalised line-up after the hatch’s debut this autumn, and will go head-to-head with Peugeot’s forthcoming 307CC, a car developed by the people responsible for the stylish 206CC.
Codenamed X84, the Mégane CC is being prepared with the help of performance design specialist TWR, the Oxfordshire-based firm is working on the engine and suspension settings to ensure the Renault is among the best in its class to drive. The car will be built in France and feature a roof mechanism believed to be under development by Heulliez, a French company with a long history of making hydraulic systems.
As the flagship Mégane, equipment levels are expected to be impressive. All cars will offer an electronically operated hood, air-con and an optional roadbox that will convert the four-seat car into a chic roadster. Safety is also a priority, and the Laguna, the only vehicle to score five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests, is set to provide the technology for the airbag and protection systems.
Entry-level cars will be powered by a 172bhp 2.0 litre engine, while flagship models get a 230bhp turbo. A six speed manual gearbox will transfer power to the front wheels. But there are no plans to offer the 4WD system being created for a forthcoming RX4 replacement.
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<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: rob on 2002-06-06 13:09 ]</font>