The Peugeot 207CC ELLE is a limited edition model of the highly successful 207CC coupe cabriolet. It comes in a range of four stylish interior and exterior colour combinations and features a more aerodynamic body. In creating the 207CC ELLE, Peugeot consulted readers of ELLE magazine.

The Peugeot 207CC ELLE is a limited addition drop-top that adds a stylish twist to the standard 207CC model. The ELLE was designed in collaboration with the winners of a competition in ELLE magazine to design the four interior/exterior colour combinations that are available with the new model. Far from being just another fashion accessory however, Peugeot have kitted the ELLE out with perhaps the most popular of the units in the 207CC's engine range, ensuring it won't trade on just looks alone. Peugeot are hoping the 207CC ELLE will appeal to style-conscious female drivers who are in the market for a drop-top for under £20,000.

Unlike the rest of the Peugeot 207CC range which has a fine array of engines to draw upon, the ELLE only comes with the 120bhp 1.6-litre VTi unit. Nevertheless it still feels quite punchy, delivering its maximum power at 6,000rpm and its peak torque figure of 118lb/ft at 4,250rpm. One of the notable features of this engine is the flat torque curve with 88% of maximum torque available from just 2,000rpm, giving an almost diesel-like pull from standstill. The power steering makes parking easy, if lacking a bit of feel at speed. Likewise the body control is geared towards comfort rather than the nth degree of handling prowess.

Operating the roof is simplicity itself. The 207 CC ELLE roof differs significantly in terms of convenience thanks to its entirely automatic operation. In other words, no more of the manual release handles that ladies used to break their fingernails on. The only manual operation consists of pressing the control button for around 25 seconds, during which time the opening or closing cycle is completed; after all four windows have been lowered automatically. To ensure optimal roof sealing and to assist the opening of the doors, the electric front windows are equipped with an "automatic window drop" system. The 207CC ELLE features an active roll over protection system, especially reassuring in the unlikely event of the car going dirty side up with the roof down.

"The 207CC ELLE is likely to appeal to fashion-conscious female drivers who want a stylish convertible for under £20,000.."

There's plenty of room up front and the instrument panel is clearly laid out with higher quality plastics and materials than other Peugeot models. With the hood in place, all-round visibility is better than many cars of this type but the rear three-quarter view, such as when coming out of angled junctions, is still a little awkward. The rear seats are also very claustrophobic when the roof is in place.

In this limited edition model, you can expect to find 17" Hockenheim alloy wheels and a curvaceous and aerodynamic exterior body style. It also comes with a sporty-looking mesh front grille, leather covered steering wheel, body-coloured exterior mouldings, aluminium pedals and gear knob. Body rigidity is always a key priority when designing an open car and Peugeot has worked hard at improving the 207CC torsional stiffness. The roof mechanism boosts rigidity by 50 per cent and is built in Madrid. With a completely automatic operation, the roof opens in just 25 seconds.

Where many manufacturers contract out much of their design work to third party styling houses, Peugeot's Style Centre has developed a growing reputation for producing some tidy work and the 207CC is no exception. Yes, there has been the odd miss, but few can fault them when it comes to stamping an instantly recognisable Peugeot trademark on their output.

Where the 207CC ELLE will really appeal to the fashionistas is in its choice of four interior/exterior colour combinations. Opt for 'Glamour Mode' and your ELLE will come in a Thorium Grey metallic paint job with leather and Mulberry trim. 'Classic Couture' features Lacerta Yellow with black leather interior and graphite trim, 'Rock Chic' comes in Diamond black with black leather interior and pale pink trim and finally there's 'Urban Chic', which is Silver with black leather interior and a bright blue trim. ELLE owners also receive special ELLE branded leather accessories to match their car's interior; a key ring, a credit card holder, a coin purse and a leather service and handbook wallet. There is also an optional styling upgrade kit if you want to add front spoilers, sill extensions and twin exhausts to further customize your ELLE's look.

Each model also features a heavily accessorised interior, with unique quilted centre panels on the seats, door and side trims, ELLE logos embossed into the front seats, a carbon leather trimmed instrument cowling with contrast stitching, leather gear lever gaiter with contrast stitching and ELLE embroidered floor mats. The 1.6CC engine is not going to cost the Earth to run but the relatively meagre 50-litre fuel tank might be an issue for this model. It has a combined fuel consumption rate of 43.4mpg (or 39.2 if you mate it to the optional automatic gearbox).

The Peugeot 207CC ELLE is likely to appeal to fashion-conscious female drivers who want a stylish convertible for under £20,000. With its range of interior and exterior styling choices and optional sports upgrade, the ELLE really expands on this market and is a car that the owner can really personalise.

Unlike some convertibles which, once you'd enjoyed the initial hit of their good looks, never offer much beyond that, the 207CC ELLE has a good 1.6-litre engine to back up its striking looks and an all-round impressive build quality. The metal drop-top roof should ensure the car is a favourite for all seasons. The 207CC ELLE should ensure the 207CC range remains near the top of the sales charts.