PEUGEOT’S impressive 308 hatchback was always going to provide the basis for a much better coupe-convertible than the 307 that preceded it, so it’s no surprise the sportier and more rigid new 308 CC is a more convincing driver’s car than the 307 CC. Adding to its increased allure are two new engines, led by a smooth, perky new turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine shared with BMW, mated to both six-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions. For the first time in a Peugeot convertible in Australia, there’s also a diesel engine on offer in the 308 CC – in this case a torquey 2.0-litre turbocharged unit matched exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. Two equipment levels are available for the 308 CC, which is priced from under $50,000 and features affordable top-end technologies such as a neck heating system, twin front side airbags and a head-up display.