Peugeot, one of the world's biggest and oldest manufacturers of diesel passenger cars, has broadened its Australian diesel range.
On sale in January, but making its first major showing at the upcoming Brisbane Motor Show (Feb 5–14, 1999), the Peugeot 306 XRDT is a compact sedan powered by a 1.9-litre, four cylinder, turbo-diesel engine.
At $39,100, the five-speed manual only 306 XRDT delivers a seamless combination of diesel economy and performance, four door practicality and prestige refinement.
It joins the larger 406 STDT (sedan and wagon) in the Australian Peugeot range, offering diesel buyers a choice between compact or full-size sedan or seven-seat family wagon.
VALUABLE ADDITION
According to Mr Shane Priest, Managing Director of Peugeot Concessionaires Australia the 306 XRDT is a key addition to the range.
"The 306 XRDT will appeal to buyers looking for a dynamic yet practical package which offers longevity, reliability and exceptional economy."
Like all 306s the XRDT's standard equipment list includes a driver's side airbag, electric windows (front only), remote central locking, height-adjustable pyrotechnic front seatbelts, power-steering, height adjustable steering wheel, passive electronic engine immobiliser, electric mirrors and an anti-theft stereo.
The XRDT also boasts a huge 463-litre boot (125 litres more than the 306 hatch with rear seats upright), Michelin Energy MXV3A low-rolling resistance tyres, a rear sun blind, corded cloth trim and three-point (lap-sash) seatbelts for all rear seat occupants.
PEUGEOT LEADS DIESEL DEVELOPMENT
Peugeot's parent group PSA is the world's leading manufacturer of diesel engines.
In Europe, the increasing attraction of diesel has led to an 8.4 percent increase, between 1990 and 1996, in the number of new cars sold being fitted with a diesel engines.
This popularity is being driven by the diesel engine's improving drivability as well as increasingly clear leadership in reducing fuel consumption and lowering exhaust emissions.
1000 KM ON A SINGLE TANK
The relative pricing of unleaded and diesel fuel may not offer Australian diesel drivers a marked advantage at the pump but a driving range in excess of 1000km (on a 60 litre tank of fuel) adds up to outstanding fuel economy.
With 67 kW of power and 201 Nm of torque the 306 XRDT combines 13.9 second 0-100km acceleration with superb ride comfort and super responsive handling.
SUSPENSION – STRENGTH & REFINEMENT
Providing strength, handling accuracy and comfort, critical in rural areas, the 306 XRDT features a modified MacPherson strut front and trailing arm / torsion bar rear suspension.
Like all Peugeot 306s it also features passive rear-wheel steering courtesy of finely tuned rear suspension bushes which translate lateral and vertical cornering loads into subtle turning of the rear wheels in cornering.
Also designed to keep the car composed and tracking truly on broken surfaces this simple system provides precise handling, tenacious roadholding and outstanding ride quality without the weight or cost of mechanical or electro-hydraulic four-wheel steering systems.