Peugeot Australia has beefed up its 207 range with the introduction of the special edition 207 Sportium five-door hatch.

Starting at $21,990 for the 88kW/160Nm 1.6-litre petrol five-speed manual, the Sportium sits right between the $19,990 entry-level 207 XR and the top-of-the-range 207 XT at $23,990.

Like the XT, it is also available as a petrol automatic ($23,990) and an 80kW/240Nm HDi diesel manual ($25,190).

Included on all three Sportium models are 16in alloy wheels, sports bumpers with fog lamps, body-coloured side mouldings, rear parking sensors and electric windows, privacy glass, leather steering wheel, carpet mats, dark interior trim, and aluminium pedals, door sills and gearknob (manual).

Five exterior colours are available including black, white, red and two shades of grey.

Peugeot Automobiles Australia general manager and director, Ken Thomas, said the introduction of the Sportium was another example of Peugeot’s commitment to offering customers a premium product without paying a premium.

“It delivers all the hallmarks of a true European car – such as dynamic style, high safety standard equipment including ESP, six airbags and ABS and a rewarding driving experience – at a price that’s very competitive in today’s automotive market,” Mr Thomas said.

Through the first seven months of the year, the 207 holds a dominant position at the top of its $25K+ light segment with 453 sales and a market share of just below 50 percent.

But the premium light vehicle segment in Australia is very small, accounting for just 920 of the total 80,409 light vehicles sold in Australia this year. Against the entire light vehicle segment, the baby Pug accounts for just 0.56 percent of the market.

The 2010 Peugeot 207 Sportium special edition hatch is on sale now.

Note: Prices are the manufacturer’s maximum recommended vehicle price not including on road costs.