THE launch of the 206 heads a massive five-year new Peugeot product range programme which will include a new large car. The 106 will remain in the Peugeot stable for 'at least another two years' with a replacement model not due to enter showrooms until 2002.

The French manufacturer is keeping details of its new large car a closely-guarded secret but Peugeot fleet and leasing director John Taylor says the car will not be a direct replacement for the 605 and the company sees little point in launching a traditional luxury car to take on the German manufacturers or the likes of the Vauxhall Omega.