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SEVEN UP

Models Covered: 2dr convertible, three and five-door hatchbacks, five door estate (1.4 8v, 1.4 16v, 1.4 VTi, 1.6, 1.6 THP petrol, 1.4, 1.6 HDi diesel [Urban, S, Sport, GT, GTi])

BY ANDY ENRIGHT

Many manufacturers find themselves utterly tied in knots when it comes to replacing or updating a hugely successful model. Often they wait for too long and wait for the car to wither or else they try an entirely radical direction that takes a couple of years for customers to appreciate. Not Peugeot. With the 207 they played a very straight bat, changing the bits people didn’t like about the 206 such as the seating position, the build quality, the interior space and the steering response, and keeping the bits customers loved such as the shape and the cheeky personality. Although some have sniffily dismissed this approach as rather short termist, Peugeot are making hay while the sun shines with 207 sales sky high. Here’s how to track down a decent used example.

To follow one phenomenal success story with another takes some doing, but to do it a third time gave Peugeot a huge challenge. Their 205 supermini started it all off in 1983 and things got even better fifteen years later with the 206, a car that was to sell over five million units worldwide. Then the onus fell upon the model we look at here, the 207. Despite its sales success, criticism has always persisted over the rather low rent interior finish of the 206, something Peugeot were keen to address with the more up-market 207 supermini. Of course, better quality tends to mean bigger prices and Peugeot worked hard to keep the 207 at affordable levels. Initially offered with just three and five-door hatchback body styles, a neat 207 CC coupe cabriolet followed in April 2007 and the SW station wagon model in summer of that year. The range of engines was also fleshed out, with more powerful 1.6-litre petrol units, including the 1.6-litre turbo powerplant shared with the MINI Cooper. The 1.4 VTi engine with 95bhp was also announced in summer of 2007.

Peugeot claims the 207 set new class standards in terms of trim quality and equipment levels. The design of this car followed the corporate image seen on other models in the range like the 307 and 407 with the large ‘smiling’ grille and sharky front light clusters. The neat styling has shades of 206 about it, yet the car is completely different, based on the company’s ‘Platform 1’ floor pan which it shares with the 1007. The striking and rather sporty look, which was designed in-house by Peugeot’s own stylists, has ensured a strong customer following. The car is offered in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback form or as a CC folding hardtop coupe. If you need estate versatility, there is also an SW on offer. Peugeot decided to build the 207 at three sites in France, Spain and Slovakia, ensuring that they would always have sufficient capacity to meet demand. Sitting inside the 207, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from the 206 in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207, even in its most basic trim level, is head and shoulders above its predecessor in terms of refinement. The elegant centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilating and audio switches and the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect gives the impression of a very up-market product. The front seats are generously cut yet still manage to offer decent support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted. Equipment levels? Well, air-conditioning is available in two specifications, dual zone manual or automatic. In addition, each vehicle is equipped with a fragrance diffuser which is discreetly incorporated into the fascia panel and dispenses one of seven selectable fragrances to keep the interior of your 207 smelling sweetly. Each fragrance was specially developed by a leading French perfume supplier. Useful features include automatic activation of the dipped beam, automatic front windscreen wipers, electric front windows with one-touch automatic reverse control and a remote control for the radio situated under the steering wheel. The 207CC doesn’t deviate too much from the template set by the 206CC but the proportions are a little less stubby, the silhouette a few degrees more elegant. With 2+2 seating (although you wouldn’t want to try to lever adults into the back seats), the 207CC is 4.04 metres long, adding 21cm to the length of the 206CC. Operating the roof is simplicity itself. With a similar operation as the 206 CC, the 207 CC roof differs significantly in terms of convenience thanks to its entirely automatic operation.

Prices for a rather basic 1.4-litre 16v S three-door start at around £8,300 on a 2006 06 plate with a Sport model tacking another £300 onto that asking price. The 1.6-litre Sport starts at around £8,700 in three-door guise with a Sport available for only a couple of hundred pounds more. The 1.6-litre turbo GT model kicks off at around £10,600, again on the 06 plate. Peugeot has gained a reputation for offering some very good diesels and the 207 is the recipient of a punchy 1.4-liutre HDI that is available from around £8,400 for an 06 plated S with three doors and air conditioning. The 1.6-litre HDi is offered in wither 90 or 110bhp guises, the more powerful engine with GT trim starting at around £11,200.

Although Peugeot had all manner of teething problems with the hood mechanisms on 206CC and 307CC variants, these appear to have been largely ironed out and the automatic roof of the 207CC has generated few issues. The standard cars feature some high-tech electronic functions which so far have been reliable but remain something to watch out for in years to come. The engines seem beyond reproach and the interior quality is vastly improved.

(based on a 207 1.4 with air con & power steering ex Vat) A clutch assembly is around £125. Front brakepads are around £55, rear brake shoes around £40, a starter motor about £130 and an alternator around £145.

Peugeot offers a choice of six petrol and three diesel engines. The petrol models offered are a 1.4-litre 8-valve unit producing 75bhp, a 1.4-litre 16-valve unit producing 90bhp, a 1.4-litre VTi 95bhp unit, a 1.6-litre VTi giving out 120bhp, plus 150 and 175bhp 1.6-litre turbo options. The diesel offerings are all second generation common-rail high-pressure direct injection powerplants and start with a 1.4-litre HDi producing 70bhp. This is followed by a 1.6-litre HDi 16-valve delivering 90bhp and a range-topping version of the same engine with a variable geometry turbocharger producing 110bhp. All these units are a result of the joint venture between PSA Peugeot Citroën and BMW Group, the 207 being the first Peugeot model to use them. Safety has been designed into the 207 and the car earned a five star rating from the EuroNCAP tests. The 207’s front end contains two impact absorption structures borrowed from the 407 that distribute impact energy more efficiently in the event of a collision. Sill reinforcements and tubular bars in the doors aid structural rigidity. Numerous airbags are installed in the 207 and the front two ‘adaptive’ airbags have a dual-generator function that can vary their pressures according to the severity of the impact. Side airbags and curtain airbags also feature as standard or as an option, depending on the model level. All 207s are fitted with two 3-point mountings in the rear outer seats, each of which can accommodate a child’s Isofix car safety seat.

Despite not being a hugely accomplished car, the Peugeot 206 sold like hot cakes. The 207, despite looking ostensibly similar, represented a big step forward. Many buyers will still purchase on the strength of its looks and luck into what has become a very decent hatch. We’d look for the 1.6-litre petrols and diesels and be very particular about getting the right equipment and trim.

LEARNING THE CIELO
Though the Peugeot lion may roar in 207 GTi form, it’s still got a bit of a growl if you opt for a 207 Cielo, plus you can let a bit of sky into your life. Jonathan Crouch reports

Much as some of us would like a Peugeot 207 GTi, the upfront price, the insurance rating and the ongoing fuel bills may well act as a significant deterrent. Hence the appeal of Peugeot’s 207 Sport range and derivatives based on it like the 207 Cielo special editions we look at here.

‘Cielo’ is a reference to this car’s major feature – a particularly large panoramic glass sunroof. Buyers also get metallic paint, a Bluetooth hands-free phone kit and a useful cruise control / speed limiter system. Plus you get all the cosmetic bits you’d find on a normal 207 Sport model. So there’s ‘Sport’ front styling with an 'alu' grille & fog lights, body-coloured side rubbing strips, body-coloured door mirrors and door handles, a chrome exhaust extension, alloy wheels, front fog lights and sports front seats. Although one shouldn’t read too much into Peugeot’s claim that the 207 Sport is borne from their three consecutive World Rally Championships, there’s no doubt that it is a fun and tidy handler. Cielo version customers get a choice of two 1.4-litre petrol engines, developing either 75 or 95bhp plus there’s a choice of three or five-door models. Prices start at £11,995 for the eight-valve 75bhp model but we’d council you to find another £450 for the more modern 1.4 VTi 95bhp engine if you possible can. This represents a customer saving of £550, compared to a 207 Sport model specified with the Cielo’s features as optional equipment. To compliment the panoramic glass roof, three exterior colours are available – Diablo Red, Neysha Blue and Aluminium. On the road, it is much as you might expect, given the impressive abilities of other cars from the company's stable. The gearchange throw is rather long but the action is reassuringly precise and the brakes instil a good deal of confidence too. The handling? Well, unlike some of its older predecessors, the 207 advances the science no further in this respect - the class standard is already too good for that. Nor, unlike the old 205, is it the kind of car that enthusiasts will find excuses to drive. The power steering is a little light and the body roll a little too pronounced to really warrant a sporty badge.

"‘Cielo’ is a reference to this car’s major feature – a particularly large panoramic glass sunroof"

Inside, the front seats are very comfortable and appear to give good support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted. Sitting inside the 207, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from the old 206 in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207, even in its most basic trim level, is head and shoulders above its equivalent 206 model in refinement. The elegant centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilating and audio switches and the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect is very pleasing and gives the impression of a very up-market product. One touch we especially liked was a fragrance diffuser which is discreetly incorporated into the fascia panel and dispenses one of seven selectable fragrances to keep the interior of your 207 smelling sweetly. Each fragrance has been specially developed by a leading French perfume supplier. More importantly, safety has been designed into the 207 and the car has earned a five star rating from the EuroNCAP tests. The 207’s front end contains two impact absorption structures borrowed from the 407 that distribute impact energy more efficiently in the event of a collision. Sill reinforcements and tubular bars in the doors aid structural rigidity. Numerous airbags are installed in the 207 and the front two ‘adaptive’ airbags have a dual-generator function that can vary their pressures according to the severity of the impact. All 207s are fitted with two 3-point Isofix mountings in the rear outer seats, each of which can accommodate a child’s Isofix car safety seat. As long as you’re not expecting lowered suspension, beefed up brakes and a whole host of interior upgrades like sports seats and leather trim, the Peugeot 207 Cielo shouldn’t disappoint. It’s not what you’d even dub a ‘warm hatch’ but the basic 207 shape sill looks pert even after a couple of years on the market and the Cielo’s smart sunroof and alloy wheels coupled with the 207’s aggressive front end give it a bit of visual pizzazz. Although the quote from your insurance company may well prove the high point of 207 Cielo ownership, many will love its blend of sassy styling, affordability and tried and tested engineering.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 Cielo range PRICES: £11,995-£13,045 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 3-4 CO2 EMISSIONS: 145-150g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.4 8v] 0-60mph 15.6s / Max Speed 104mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.4 8v] (urban) 33.6mpg / (extra urban) 56.5mpg / (combined) 44.8mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4030/1720/1472

BLOWING IN
The Peugeot 207 GT THP 150 is one of the most significant small cars the French company has made in quite some time. Andy Enright explains why

If, like me, you were raised on a diet of Peugeot hot hatches that left the opposition trailing in their wakes, I can understand if you’re a little underwhelmed by the 207 GT THP 150. No, really. If you’re after a state of the art road rocket that’ll keep supercars honest on a twisty lane, this isn’t the car. The problem is that such hot hatches are now getting beyond the reach of most of us. Whilst I’d love a Golf R32, I don’t have £24,000 knocking about. Even the £20,000 required for a Vauxhall Astra VXR or a decently specified Ford Focus ST is a stretch for many and in terms of real world motoring, the 207 GT THP 150 is an intriguing choice.

Priced at just £14,475 on the road, this 1.6-litre turbocharged Peugeot is not only affordable but makes sense in terms of ongoing running costs. For younger drivers who have graduated out of something like a Citroën C2 VTR, it’s a logical next step and is a whole lot more insurable than, say, a Civic Type-R or a Renaultsport Clio 197. Although it isn’t going to make the cover of evo magazine, it is, nevertheless, a respectably quick supermini and one that’s very significant in its own way. This is the first time that a petrol-engined Peugeot supermini has been fitted with a turbocharger since the legendary 205 T16, the car that carried the likes of Ari Vatanen to Group B rally victories in the Eighties. If you had to take a stab at who partnered Peugeot in the development of this engine, I think you’d need quite a few guesses before you came up with the name BMW, yet the Munich company have helped foot R&D costs for this powerplant, an engine which develops its 150bhp peak power output at a heady 5,800rpm, although the peak torque of 180lb/ft chimes in at an accessible 1,400rpm.

"The 207 GT THP 150 is but the first step in Peugeot’s reclaiming of the performance hatch high ground. There’s more to follow"

This translates into an ability to step off the line pretty smartly, the 207 GT THP 150 getting to 60mph in 8.4 seconds, which is quick, if not concussive. For more power, you’ll need to find a few hundred pounds more for the 175bhp GTi model, which gets to sixty in 6.9s. In either of these variants, as long as you’re a little more restrained with the right peg, you should see around 40mpg combined fuel consumption and emit around 170 grammes of carbon dioxide per kilometre. The 207 GT THP 150 is an undeniably handsome piece of styling, the big front grille now starting to rest easier on the eye than when it was first introduced and the elegantly tapered rear profile gives the car a squat, dynamic stance on the road. This is helped in GT THP 150 guise by 17-inch alloy wheels which fill the wheel arches quite convincingly and when finished in white, it’s a real head turner, looking like an émigré from a rally stage in the best Peugeot tradition. In case you’re wondering how the BMW and Peugeot tie up came about, it’s basically a technology sharing arrangement. The Germans needed a new engine for the MINI range that was cleaner and more modern but they weren’t over-endowed with a tradition of building great small engines. They turned to Peugeot, who gained access to a lot of BMW’s high tech six-cylinder engine building prowess that they could adapt to four-cylinder designs. Much of the 207 range is to be based around a version of this powerplant, with the normally-aspirated 120bhp VVT version catering for the bulk of sales. This 150bhp turbo unit will sell to ‘warm hatch’ customers and there’ll be an even hotter version knocking out around 200bhp earmarked for the 207 GTi. Sitting inside the 207, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from the old 206 in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207 is head and shoulders above its equivalent 206 model in terms of refinement. The graceful centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilating and audio switches while the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect is very pleasing and gives the impression of a very up-market product. The front seats are very comfortable and appear to give good support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted. One major plus point is that the A-pillars seem a little thinner than in the 307 and thus impede visibility far less. Equipment levels? The GT THP 150 is well specified, although it is only offered as a three door model. Expect six airbags, anti lock brakes with brake assist and brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, tyre pressure sensors, two ISOFIX three-point rear child seat mountings, electric windows, a Thatcham class 1 alarm with deadlocks, automatic static directional headlamps and wipers, dual zone climate control air conditioning, a panoramic "Cielo" glass roof with sunblind, a steering column adjustable for reach and rake, height adjustable driver and passenger seats and half leather trim. That’s quite a list for under £15k. In addition, each vehicle is equipped with a fragrance diffuser which is discreetly incorporated into the fascia panel and dispenses one of seven selectable fragrances to keep the interior of your 207 smelling sweetly. Each fragrance has been specially developed by a leading French perfume supplier. The Peugeot 207 GT THP 150 is a car that offers a lot of fun for not too much money. Target customers will appreciate a well taken corner and will enjoy a spirited cross country drive but won’t want to be crippled with stinging running costs. Instead of just adding more horsepower to the hot hatch formula, Peugeot have come up with something that all round, makes a lot more day-to-day sense. Let’s hope it finds favour.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 GT THP 150 PRICE: £14,475 - £15,075 – on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 11 CO2 EMISSIONS: 166g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 8.7s / Max Speed 131mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined) 40.3mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS with EBD and EBA, ESP WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4030/1720/1472

SEVEN UP
Peugeot’s 207 has a lot to live up to. Andy Enright assesses what contribution the HDi diesel models will make…

Talk about the big build up. Having to follow the phenomenal success story that was the 206 is a task that would be beyond most cars. Peugeot has stepped up to the plate with the 207, a model that’s bigger and, they trust, better in almost every way. Pivotal to the success of the 207 range are the diesel models and the French company hasn’t taken the task of developing top notch small capacity diesel engines lightly. Small wonder that BMW came knocking when looking for a company to show it how to build such units.

Peugeot are offering a choice of three diesel engines. These consist of second generation common-rail high-pressure direct injection powerplants and start with a 1.4-litre HDi producing 70bhp. This is followed by a 1.6-litre HDi 16-valve delivering 90bhp and a range-topping version of the same engine with a variable geometry turbocharger that helps it produce 110bhp. All these units are a result of the joint venture between PSA Peugeot Citroën and BMW Group, the 207 being the first Peugeot model to use them. You’ll also find a version in the MINI range in case you were wondering what BMW get from the deal. Although few can hold a candle to the Germans when it comes to producing larger diesel engines, engineering a high-efficiency compact unit takes more than just lopping a couple of cylinders off or whittling the engine’s capacity down. Fiendishly complicated non-linear thermodynamics mean that, although the principles are the same, the practice of building a small diesel is quite different and Peugeot has long been at the forefront of this particular field. These diesel engines are a case in point. The 1.4-litre engine features a combined economy figure of 62.7mpg and will get to 60mph in 15.1 seconds, not bad considering the size of the 207 – it’s a big hunk of metal. Step up to the 90bhp 1.6-litre and fuel consumption remains identically healthy at 62.7mpg again but it’s usefully pacier, breaching 60mph from rest in 11.5 seconds. Model for model there’s a £1,100 premium to move from 1.4 to 1.6-litre cars. Finally, there are the most interesting models of the lot – the 1.6-litre 110bhp cars. Fuel consumption here is trimmed to 58.7mpg but this engine will allow the 207 to hit 60mph in 10 seconds dead and keep going to 120mph. Three trim levels are offered in this guise, SE, Sport and the more aggressive looking GT.

"The 207 is at its best when there’s a diesel engine nestling under its bonnet"

The 207 HDi 110 GT is an undeniably handsome piece of styling, the big front grille now starting to rest easier on the eye than when it was first introduced and the elegantly tapered rear profile gives the car a squat, dynamic stance on the road. This is helped by 17-inch alloy wheels which fill the wheel arches quite convincingly and when finished in white, it’s a real head turner, looking like an émigré from a rally stage in the best Peugeot tradition. The chromed fog lamps peer beadily out from each side of the grille and while it’s neither as pretty nor as cohesive a piece of styling as the 206, it undeniably has more presence. The engine lacks a tiny bit of torque at the very bottom of its rev range but it pulls strongly thereafter, reminding you to give it a little more in the way of revs than you often would with a turbodiesel hatch. Think of it as Peugeot’s way of keeping you on your mettle. Everything about the 207 feel better the harder you drive the car. The rather numb electrically-assisted power steering weights up very nicely when you get your game face on and the suspension offers far better composure than the old 206. The 207 is also a whole lot easier to see out of than its predecessor. Sitting inside the new 207, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from the 206 in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207, even in its most basic trim level, is head and shoulders above its equivalent 206 model in refinement. The elegant centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilation and audio switches and the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect is very pleasing and gives the impression of a very up-market product. The front seats are comfortable and appear to give good support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted. This is the 207’s Achilles heel and families would do well to consider that despite being the joint biggest car in the class on the outside, the 207 comes plum last when it comes to rear seat space. Safety has been designed into the 207 and the car has earned a five star rating from the EuroNCAP tests. The 207’s front end contains two impact absorption structures borrowed from the 407 that distribute impact energy more efficiently in the event of a collision. Sill reinforcements and tubular bars in the doors aid structural rigidity. Numerous airbags are installed in the 207 and the front two ‘adaptive’ airbags have a dual-generator function that can vary their pressures according to the severity of the impact. Side airbags and curtain airbags also feature as standard or as an option, depending on the model level. All 207s are fitted with two 3-point Isofix mountings in the rear outer seats, each of which can accommodate a child’s Isofix car safety seat. The 207 will have its work cut out to replicate the success of its predecessor but it gets a decent start with these three diesel-engined models. There are some very talented rivals about, not least of which is Renault’s latest – and very spacious – Clio but Peugeot are confident of history repeating. Time will tell.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 HDi diesel range PRICES: £9,995-£17,112 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 3-7 CO2 EMISSIONS: 120-126g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.6 110] 0-60mph 9s / Max Speed 120mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.6 110] (urban) 47mpg / (extra urban) 68.9mpg / (combined) 58.8mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4030/1720/1472

CRANKING UP THE PRESSURE
Peugeot’s record of building hot hatches is second to none. How does the 207 stack up in GTi THP 175 guise? Andy Enright reports

Ask most people what they consider the definitive hot hatch and there will often be a split between the Volkswagen Golf GTi and the Peugeot 205 GTi. Both camps have a loyal following and both can point to more recent spells in the histories of their respective companies when the hot hatch offerings have been less than stellar. Just as Volkswagen has returned to a rich vein of form with its latest Golf GTI, so Peugeot is looking to follow suit. Their the 207 GTi THP 175 expects to write the next – and somewhat happier – chapter in their history of small performance cars.

The THP (Turbo High Pressure) engine is part of the reason why this car looks set to succeed. Developed in conjunction with BMW, it’s a smart piece of engineering and gives the GTi the grin factor that’s been missing for too long from hot Peugeot tots. The 1.6-litre turbocharged ‘Prince’ powerplant has a good deal going for it. Anybody who drove the old 206 GTi 180 will be amazed at this engine’s tractability and smoothness right across the rev range. There’s none of that bog and surge characteristic that afflicts many turbocharged engines and although it’s down a few bhp on the 206 at 175bhp, it’s nevertheless a far quicker car in real world conditions. It’ll get to 60mph in 6.9 seconds, which is over half a second faster than the old 206 GTi 180, and will run onto a top speed of 137mph where conditions allow. Peak torque of 244Nm is available from only 1,600rpm all the way up to 4,500rpm but a transient ‘overboost’ function allows for 264Nm for short periods, again a massive improvement on the 206 GTi 180’s 206Nm showing.

"The ride and handling issues have been nicely sorted and the evolutionary styling is very easy on the eye"

As indeed is ride and handling. Where the 206 was crashy and nervous at the limit, the 207 feels a whole lot more supple and confidence-inspiring. ESP stability control is fitted as standard and can be switched off if you really want to cut loose but we’d recommend a race circuit or an airfield. A clever steering system automatically countersteers when the ESP electronics detect one side of the car on a slippery surface, reducing braking distances and maintaining directional control. The five-speed gearbox bucks the trend for six ratios but suits the power delivery of the THP engine very well. If you’re expecting a car with the visual flair to match its rather extrovert performance, the 207 GTi THP 175 might come as a slight disappointment. I must admit I like its rather low-key look. There are 17-inch alloys wheels, a small spoiler at the top of the rear window, twin chrome exhausts and some satin black finishing but it won’t turn too many heads. That’s not to say the styling isn’t handsome or deft, it’s just not in any way braggardly. The 207 represents a big improvement over the 206 in terms of perceived quality. The materials in the cabin look and feel sturdy with no obvious flaws in terms of the way it all fits together. The lower specification models lack some of the fancy detailing you get as you ascend the range but the interior of a 207 is generally a pleasant place to be. Rear legroom is not as good as in some rivals, although there’s a trade-off in the shape of a 310-litre boot capacity and the design of the standard ventilation control panel looks a touch dated. This GTi model feels a little more upmarket with its alcantara-trimmed bucket seats for four but if you were expecting something radically different to the 206, you’re not really getting it. It feels better screwed together and visibility out of the car is a good deal better but the wheel, the ventilation controls and a lot of the minor switchgear look very familiar. Priced at £15,495 on the road, the 207 GTI THP 175 will instantly be compared to Clio Renaultsport 197 which tacks another £600 onto that price and offers a rather more intense driver focus. Many will prefer the slightly more languid engine response of the Peugeot and it certainly feels a more mature car and more pleasant to drive at anything other than ten-tenths. It’s strongly equipped too. The nicely-trimmed sports seats are the first thing you’ll spot when dropping into the cabin but there’s also rear parking sensors, elliptical headlights, a cruise control with speed limiter (handy for negotiating SPECS camera zones) and dual zone climate controlled air-conditioning. There’s also tyre pressure sensors, folding electric door mirrors and an electrochromatic interior mirror that dims when high-beam lights are shone at it. Six airbags are fitted as standard and there are two ISOFIX child seat mountings in the back. Awarded a maximum five stars in the Euro NCAP test for adult occupant protection, the 207 GTi is as safe a hot hatch as you’re likely to be able to buy. All too often, the appeal of driving a hot hatch is rather tarnished by some surprisingly hefty costs. I remember driving a Ford Focus ST enthusiastically across the South Downs and then being rather horrified to realise I was getting 12mpg from it. The Peugeot 207 GTi THP 175 is different, offering a published combined fuel economy figure of 41mpg. Granted, these manufacturer figures are nigh-on impossible to replicate in the real world but even normal driving should see better than 30mpg on a day in, day out basis. Emissions are also surprisingly good for a car with this level of performance. The 171g/km figure is better than something like a 1.6-litre Hyundai Matrix and way better than the 209g/km that the hot Clio chugs out. That’ll be enough to swing the balance for many company car user choosers. Devoted fans of the 205 GTi would have wanted Peugeot to have built a scalpel sharp hatch that delighted the enthusiast and rapped the knuckles of disrespectful drivers. The 207 GTi THP 175 is not that car. What buyers do get is a wonderfully user-friendly model that removes most of the objective impediments to hot hatch ownership but which can switch from benign to bullish with very little fuss. It’s competent, but is it exciting? That may well be the issue for those looking for a real adrenaline rush. Otherwise there’s very little to complain about. The ride and handling issues have been nicely sorted and the evolutionary styling is very easy on the eye. Safe, acceptably well screwed together and with plenty of space, the GTi THP offers a tantalising glimpse of what Peugeot could do if it really took the gloves off. If you want a quick and entertaining car that doesn’t impose itself on you in the way more focused hot hatches tend to, this 207 remains an option.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 GTI THP 175 PRICE: £15,495 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 15 CO2 EMISSIONS: 171g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 6.9s / Max Speed 137mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined) 41mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Six airbags, anti lock brakes, electronic stability control, steering stability program, ISOFIX child seat fixings WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4035/1720/1460

SURPRISE PACKAGE
The New Peugeot 207 Urban Entry Level Model Has A Lot To Recommend It. Steve Ghosley Explains…

It would be quite normal to feel that you’ve drawn the short straw when you climb behind the wheel of an entry level model in a new car. Normal, but in the case at least of Peugeot’s 207 Urban, completely wrong. Far from being the variant to avoid in the French company’s latest supermini line-up, the pleasant surprise is that in entry-level Urban guise, the 207 offers an appealing package as well as giving a lot for your money.

Peugeot are taking care that the 207 is priced closely to key competitors like Renault’s latest Clio and Fiat’s Grande Punto. That’s despite the fact that they claim their latest model sets fresh class standards in terms of trim quality and equipment levels, even in this entry level model. We’ll get to that. First, the design of the 207. It follows the corporate image seen on other models in the range like the 307 and 407, with the large ‘smiling’ grille and sharky front light cluster which extends almost back to the ‘A’ pillar on the 207. The neat styling has shades of 206 about it, yet the car is completely different, based on the company’s ‘Platform 1’ floor pan which it shares with the 1007. The striking and rather sporty look, which was designed in-house by Peugeot’s own stylists, should ensure a strong customer following. The Urban is offered in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback forms, the clever design ensuring that the 5-door loses none of the sporting style that is inherently built into the car. Peugeot is building the 207 at three sites in France, Spain and Slovakia, ensuring that when sales start to ramp up, they’ll have sufficient capacity to meet the demand.

"On the road is where the 207 really shows its mettle, especially in the petrol form"

With the Urban, there’s a choice of either a 1.4-litre petrol engine or a 1.4-litre HDi diesel unit. The petrol model is an 8-valve engine producing 75bhp whereas the diesel offering is a second generation common rail high-pressure direct injection powerplant producing 70bhp. The diesel model completes the 0-62mph sprint in 15.1 seconds and goes on to a maximum speed of 103mph. The 1.4-litre petrol-powered model reaches 62mph in 15.6 seconds and has a similar top speed of 104mph. It’s in the economy and environmental arenas that the diesel model has the beating of its petrol sibling. On the combined cycle, the 1.4-litre petrol averages 44.8mpg, against the diesel’s impressive 62.7 and there is a similar difference with the CO2 emissions figures of 150g/km for the petrol model and 120g/km for the diesel. On the road is where the 207 really shows its mettle, especially in petrol form. Surprisingly, the 1.4 petrol is probably the best unit in the range. It revs easily and really sings when driven hard. The steering, ride and handling are superb on both cars and they are great fun to drive especially on twisty, hilly roads, the petrol model just shading the diesel on agility through the bends. Sitting inside the new 207 Urban, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from the 206 in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207, even in this entry level model, is head and shoulders above its equivalent 206 model in refinement. The elegant centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilating and audio switches and the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect is very pleasing and gives the impression of a very up-market product. The front seats are very comfortable and appear to give good support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted. And the equipment levels - are they really class-leading? It depends how you look at it. The Urban model does come surprisingly well kitted out with features that include power steering, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows with one touch operation for the driver, stereo radio and CD player, driver and passenger seat height adjustment as well as 60/40 split folding rear seats. A sophisticated braking system is also standard on this car featuring ABS with EBFD (electronic brakeforce distribution) and EBA (electronic braking assistance) ensuring the 207 stops quickly and in a control manner. Other rivals can match this tally at affordable prices but arguably, the quality of the Peugeot’s trim is better. Safety has been designed into the 207 from its conception so it was no surprise that it earned a five star rating from the EuroNCAP tests. The 207’s front end contains two impact absorption structures borrowed from the 407 that distribute impact energy more efficiently in the event of a collision. Sill reinforcements and tubular bars in the doors aid structural rigidity. Numerous airbags are installed in the 207 and the front two ‘adaptive’ airbags have a dual-generator function that can vary their pressures according to the severity of the impact. Side airbags also feature as standard on the Urban model. All 207s are fitted with two 3-point Isofix mountings in the rear outer seats, each of which can accommodate a child’s Isofix car safety seat. The Peugeot 206 was a tough act to follow yet the 207 looks like a star in the making. It is beautifully styled and extremely well put together. The doors shut with a reassuring "clunk" just like a Mercedes-Benz or BMW. Even with this entry level model you feel cosseted in a classy car. The Peugeot 207 Urban could prove to be the surprise package of the range.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 Urban range PRICES: £9,095 - £10,595 INSURANCE GROUPS: 3 CO2 EMISSIONS: 120-150g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.4 petrol] 0-60mph 15.6s / Max Speed 104mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.4 petrol] (urban) 33.6mpg / (extra urban) 56.5mpg / (combined) 44.8mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS with EBFD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 4030/1720/1472

COMPACT CARRIER
Big loads are not the supermini-based van’s forte but the Peugeot 207 Van carries over the strengths of its passenger-carrying sibling and should make a good choice for UK business. Steve Walker reports…

Supermini-based vans constitute the first rung on the light commercial vehicle ladder. The polar opposite of hulking large panel vans like the Mercedes Sprinter, if your load-carrying requirements don’t measure up to something like this, the smallest of all vans, you could probably make do with a wheelbarrow. While they might be small in stature and have payload capacities little better than those of your average family hatchback, vehicles like Peugeot’s 207 van still find a ready market amongst UK companies. Sometimes nimble handling and low running costs are preferable to sheer lugging ability and it’s here that vans like the 207 come into their own.

There is a school of thought that says if a manufacturer has got a presence in the light commercial vehicle market and a viable supermini in its passenger car range, it might as well offer a supermini-derived van. The development costs are hardly astronomical and, if push came to shove, would probably run to little more than the price of a burly employee with a socket set. Once he’d unbolted the passenger car’s rear bench and chucked it in a skip, you’d be 90% of the way there. OK, so there might be a little more to it than that. The 207 Van loses the supermini version’s rear bench seat but the area where the back seat passengers’ legs would have gone is panelled over to produce a flat load floor that runs up to behind the front seats. The side panels are carpeted, the rear windows are panelled over and the floor itself is covered in tough rubber matting to help protect the vehicle and its cargo. Access to the load compartment is through the 207’s wide opening tailgate but it’s not really a compartment unless you specify either the full-length load cover – an interesting hybrid of parcel shelf and roller blind - or the full-height mesh bulkhead. Leave these features on the options list and your cargo is accessible by reaching over your shoulder but the bulkhead will stop hefty items flying forward in the event of an accident and the load cover has obvious security benefits when it comes to keeping valuable items away from prying eyes. However you configure the 207 van’s load area, the load volume is around 1.1m3 and there’s the potential to load it with up to 450kg of cargo. There’s significant wheelarch intrusion at the sides but objects of up to 1,043mm can still be slid between the bulges, provided you can lift them over the pronounced loading lip and angle them through the tailgate aperture which is only 910mm.

"…the 207 van’s small size becomes a strength"

The 207 Van is not a vehicle that’s likely to be stretched to the limits of its loadbay by its owners. The target market for vehicles like this tends to be small businesses such as florists or couriers that need to make deliveries of small items in busy urban areas. Alternatively, the 207 Van would suit security guards, maintenance engineers or other occupations that need to get from A to B with only a small quality of tools and equipment in tow. For people who don’t need the carrying capacity, the 207 van’s small size becomes a strength, giving rise to low running costs and ease of manoeuvrability. The car handles sweetly with lively steering and tenacious grip at the front wheels. One trait of the 207 is a large front overhang, so parking and squeezing through gaps isn’t as easy as it could be but still a whole lot easier than in larger commercial vehicles. On the open road, ride quality is very good and the 207 will sail through lengthy motorway excursions without becoming wearing on its driver. On the downside, the gear change is sloppy with a loose feel to the lever and the driving position might not appeal to everyone. Peugeot’s expertise in the field of small petrol and diesel engines is well documented and the 207 van gets a selection of three chosen primarily for their economy. The figure that you’ll see looming large wherever the 207 van is being promoted is the 62.8mpg combined fuel consumption that’s achieved by both diesel engines. You’ll need to tread incredibly gingerly on the throttle pedal to replicate this during everyday usage but it’s a reliable indication that the 68bhp 1.4-litre HDI and 90bhp 1.6-litre HDI engines are about as economical as you’ll find in this sector. The petrol alternative manages a less impressive 44.8mpg but is pleasantly refined and with a 13.9s 0-60mph sprint time, falls between the two diesels in terms of performance. The 1.4-litre oil-burner feels quicker than the laborious 15.1s it takes to do the 0-60mph trial because of the punchy torque output but it’s still going to be beaten away from the lights by all and sundry. The best bet if you’re going to spend lots of time at the wheel of your 207 Van is the 1.6-litre HDI which is almost warm hatchback rapid with an 11.5s 0-60mph sprint and 215Nm maximum torque at 1,750rpm. Away from the engine bay, Peugeot doesn’t leave a lot of room for the 207 buyer to manoeuvre. There’s one colour on offer, an appropriately utilitarian non-metallic white and one trim level. At least the standard equipment list is comprehensive, particularly from a safety perspective. It runs to driver and passenger airbags, side airbags and ABS with brakeforce distribution and brake assist, while power steering, electric windows, remote central locking and height adjustment for both seats also get a look in. Air-conditioning, ESP stability control and a Thatcham alarm are cost options. The 207 lags a behind the best superminis in terms of build quality but it’s not bad and with the fripperies of the passenger car stripped away, this commercial vehicle version has a reassuring solidity about its interior. The ventilation controls feel a bit reedy but elsewhere, a lot of the switchgear seems quite high-end and the chrome rings round the instruments are a classy touch. The column stalks are carried over from the 206 and don’t come across as being all that sturdy. Exterior styling can be an important factor for business looking to project the right image and the 207 is definitely distinctive with its Peugeot family front end. Personally, I think Peugeot dropped a bit of a clanger wheeling the gaping maw look out across their model range but sales of the 207 have remained strong across Europe, so I’ll bow to their better judgement. Overall, the 207 Van is a capable supermini-derived commercial vehicle. The nature of this sector is that sales are never going to be huge but the 207’s refined driving experience and strong engine range mean it’s well-equipped to bring in its fair share. Safety provision is particularly good and running costs are low.

Facts At A Glance VAN: Peugeot 207 Van ENGINES: 75bhp 1.4i Petrol, 68bhp 1.4HDi diesel, 90bhp 1.6HDi diesel. FUEL ECONOMY: [1.4HDi] (urban) 48.7mpg, (extra urban) 74.3mpg, (combined) 62.8mpg DIMENSIONS: Length/Width/Heightmm 4108/1719/1802 GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 1,570kg– 1,630kg MAXIMUM PAYLOAD: 450kg

ALL WORK ALL PLAY
The Peugeot 207 m:play offers MP3 music compatibility at budget supermini pricing. Jonathan Crouch reports

In-car entertainment has assumed great importance in recent years, especially amongst budget buyers. These, after all, are the kind of people likely to stump up for an affordable runabout, then find that they can’t play their MP3 music files whilst inside it. Disaster.

Hence the announcement of this car – the special edition Peugeot 207 m:play. As you might guess from the name, its headline feature is a radio / CD player with a built in MP3 connector located in the glovebox. While the marketing team were at it, they reasoned that the type of younger buyer likely to be bothered about MP3 compatibility would also like to see features like air conditioning, sports seats, a leather steering wheel and special m:play carpet mats. So all this kit is included for a starting price beginning at £10,645 for the three-door or £600 more if you want the five-door bodystyle. As a guide, that’s about £1,000 more than the equivalent S variant from the standard range. Buyers of this special edition get to choose between three colours: Flamenco Red, Lacerta and Neysha Blue. Sitting inside the 207, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from its 206 supermini predecessor in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207, even at this fairly basic trim level, is head and shoulders above its equivalent 206 model in refinement. The elegant centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilating and audio switches and the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect is very pleasing and gives the impression of a very up-market product. The front seats are very comfortable and give good support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted.

"Even if you aren’t one of the ipod generation, this special comes with a desirable package of features that could make it worth considering …"

The air-conditioning system that’s available with the m:play is the more basic of the two on offer across the range, a dual zone manual set-up. Still, it does the job. One feature we especially liked is the 207’s fragrance diffuser which is discreetly incorporated into the fascia panel and dispenses one of seven selectable fragrances to keep the interior of your car smelling sweetly. Each fragrance has been specially developed by a leading French perfume supplier. Under the bonnet, there’s an eight valve 1.4-litre petrol engine that enables the car to reach 62mph in 15.6 seconds on the way to a top speed of 104mph. At the pumps, this car should average 44.8mpg, while the CO2 emissions figure is 150g/km. On the road is where the 207 really shows its mettle, especially in petrol form. Surprisingly, the 1.4 petrol is probably the best unit in the mainstream range. It revs easily and really sings when driven hard. The steering, ride and handling are superb and this car is surprisingly fun to drive especially on twisty, hilly roads. Safety has been designed into the 207 and the car has earned a five star rating from the EuroNCAP tests. The 207’s front end contains two impact absorption structures borrowed from the 407 that distribute impact energy more efficiently in the event of a collision. Sill reinforcements and tubular bars in the doors aid structural rigidity. Numerous airbags are installed in the 207 and the front two ‘adaptive’ airbags have a dual-generator function that can vary their pressures according to the severity of the impact. All 207s are fitted with two 3-point Isofix mountings in the rear outer seats, each of which can accommodate a child’s Isofix Overall, this 207 looks the part, is well put together and is definitely a class above the 206. If you need convincing, just shut one of the doors. They close with a very reassuring ‘thunk’. The same as you would experience with a Mercedes-Benz or BMW. As for the m:play version, well even if you aren’t one of the ipod generation, this special comes with a desirable package of features that could make it worth considering if the right dealer offer is on the table.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 m:play PRICE: £10,645 – on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 3 CO2 EMISSIONS: 150g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 15.6s / Max Speed 104mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 33.6mpg / (extra urban) 56.5mpg / (combined) 44.8mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4030/1720/1472

CLASSY CUSTOMER
Sitting in the middle of the Peugeot 207 range, the 1.6-litre 120bhp petrol version aims to bridge the gap between the economy models below it and the performance variants above. Steve Walker reports…

Certain nationalities are credited with certain strengths. If you want to know about style, ask an Italian. Food? Consult the French. If, however, it’s expertise in engineering you’re after, given the choice, most would turn to a German. PSA Peugeot Citroen did precisely this and the resulting partnership with BMW has influenced a range of products including the 120bhp 1.6-litre Peugeot 207 we feature here.

PSA needed a partner with which to develop a new family of small petrol engines and when it comes to engines, expertise doesn’t get much more expert than BMW’s. The resulting 1.6 and 1.4-litre powerplants are destined to form the backbone of the Peugeot and Citroen small car ranges for years to come with BMW simultaneously installing the units in its MINI range. The Peugeot 207 1.6 120bhp is a car with Germanic influence on more than one front. As well as having the oily fingerprints of BMW in its engine bay there’s a trace of DNA from another celebrated Bavarian marque in the transmission. This model is also available with a Tiptronic gearbox that uses technology borrowed from Porsche. BMW’s input has helped to shape the 1.6-litre 120bhp engine’s character. This advanced powerplant uses variable valve-timing and lift to adapt its combustion processes to the demands being placed on it by the driver’s right boot. It can thus run more economically under partial loads, opening up to access greater performance when required. Maximum torque of 163Nm is accessible at 4,250rpm and that 120bhp power output comes at 6,000rpm but the 1.6-litre engine feels pleasantly strong from much lower in the rev range. The 10.7s 0-60mph sprint and 125mph top speed should be enough for all but those with serious hot hatch ambitions and Peugeot offers turbocharged versions of this engine with 150 and 175bhp for those tearaways.

"What the engine does offer is smooth power delivery, decent refinement and fuel economy that belies its brisk performance."

The standard fit 5-speed manual gearbox leaves a little to be desired, lacking the punchy accuracy you want in a nippy small car. The other option will appeal to buyers seduced by this car’s BMW connection. If you have another £1,000 knocking about, you can order your 1.6-litre 207 with the Porsche-sourced 4-speed Tiptronic gearbox. The system offers the driver a choice of clutchless manual or fully automatic gear-selection. It also has Snow and Sport modes which, in turn, work to maximise traction for slippery conditions and get the most from the engine when you feel like cutting loose. The 207 represented a big improvement over the 206 in terms of perceived quality. The materials in the cabin look and feel sturdy with no obvious flaws in terms of the way it all fits together. The lower specification models lack some of the fancy detailing you get as you ascend the range but the interior of a 207 is generally a pleasant place to be. Rear legroom is not as good as in some rivals, although there’s a trade-off the shape of a 310-litre boot capacity, and the design of the standard ventilation control panel looks a touch dated. The styling themes that have gradually rolled out across the Peugeot model range are nothing if not distinctive and as with anything so wilfully out of the ordinary, the look of the 207 may not be to everyone’s taste. For the uninitiated, the 207’s main distinguishing features are those elongated headlamps that stretch back from the nose into the front wings and the huge grinning grille below, its teeth braced by a dark central bumper. Around the back, things are less extrovert but the overall look has real purpose about it. A step below the flagship performance models in the 207 range, the 1.6-litre 120bhp cars are, nevertheless, offered in the relatively plush Sport and SE Premium trim levels. Sport customers get to select from three or five door bodystyles but the more reserved SE Premium trim is only available in the practical five-door shape. Prices start at £11,925 for the three-door Sport and 13,125 for the five-door SE Premium. Further options are presented by the SW estate model and the CC convertible. All models get a healthy package of equipment with air-conditioning, remote central locking, a trip computer and a CD stereo. While the Sport trim emphasises the 207’s lively side (chrome exhaust, sports seats), the SE Premium comes over all sophisticated (panoramic glass sunroof, fragranced ventilation system). Both cars get 15" alloys, front fog lights and a leather steering wheel. There’s no doubt that 1.6-litres is a big engine by supermini standards but BMW’s variable valve timing technology allows buyers to have the benefits a larger powerplant affords without a massive downside in terms of running costs. The 120bhp 207 can still return a creditable 46mpg on the combined cycle and it squeezes-out 40mpg even if you go for the Porsche Tiptronic gearbox. CO2 emissions come in at 145g/km on the manual car but they jump quite significantly to 167g/km in the auto. The 207 tends to be fractionally more expensive than its major rivals but running costs are rarely anything too drastic with Peugeot products and group 6 insurance should also be manageable if not bargain basement. Basically, buyers pay slightly more for the extra capability this advanced 1.6-litre engine affords. The reputation that Peugeot once had for producing the best kind of grin-inducing sports hatchbacks has been on the wane in recent years and the 207 has been landed with the unenviable task of regaining some credibility for the marque in this area. The 1.6-litre is not the model for that job, the hot hatch power struggle having taken even the second string warm hatchback contenders out of reach of this 120bhp unit. What the engine does offer is smooth power delivery, decent refinement and fuel economy that belies its brisk performance. By enlisting the help of BMW for engine development and borrowing some Porsche gearbox know-how, Peugeot have given the 207 an edge both from a marketing perspective and in real-world driving conditions. You’d have to say that the 207 offers more as a quality family car than as a thrilling hot hatch, as a result of its size and general sophistication. That being the case, the 1.6-litre 120bhp engine is a good fit - the engine itself majoring in smoothness and economy with strong but not concussive performance.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 1.6-litre 120bhp PRICES: £11,925-£14,795 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 6 CO2 EMISSIONS: 145-167g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 10.7s / Max Speed 125mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined) 46.3mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4030/1720/1472

WORTH THE WEIGHT?
With the advanced 1.4-litre VTi engine installed the Peugeot 207 is a fine product but is 95bhp enough to give it a energetic edge? Steve Walker reports...

1.4 litres used to constitute a generous helping of engine for a supermini. 1,400cc cars would appear in the middle of the product range, sitting above weedier 1,200cc and even 1,000cc alternatives, they might even have been marketed as sporty little numbers only one step below the range-topping hot hatchbacks, but a look at Peugeot's latest 207 line-up will reveal that 1.4 is as small as things get. The reasons for this change are manifold but in the end, it all comes down to weight. The fact is that our superminis aren't as 'mini' as they used to be so our expectations of a model with 1.4-litre power have to be managed accordingly. Or do they? The 207 1.4 VTi has advanced technology up its sleeve so can it deliver a pleasant surprise?

It's true that the Peugeot 207 is available with a bog standard 8-valve 1.4-litre engine but the 1.4 VTi isn't it. This unit has been developed by Peugeot in partnership with BMW and is also found in the German marque's entry-level MINI models. With Peugeot's reputation for producing excellent small cars and BMW's for world-leading engineering, the 207 1.4 VTi comes with quite a pedigree. 95bhp is a respectable amount to squeeze from a 1,400cc capacity powerplant and the engineers behind this unit have done it through the use of variable valve timing technology. This means that the engine actually adapts the parameters of its combustion process according to the way the 207 is being driven. Put the hammer down and it works to optimise performance but tread more softly on the throttle and it switches into a mode that maximises economy. In practice, it makes for a free-revving engine and produces good refinement at the low to middle end of the rev range. What it can't do is defy the laws of physics and with the 207 weighing in at nearly 1,300kg, this car is never going to set the road alight with the 95bhp at its disposal. The 0-60mph sprint takes 12.8s and the top speed is 115mph. By contrast, the MINI which uses the same engine weighs 1,135kg and can get to 60mph in 10.9s, evidence of the impact that less weight can have. The advantage of the Peugeot's mass is its composure and the big car feel on the road. It's an unhurried, comfortable car to drive that's great on longer journeys and takes to twisty back roads with relish thanks to its well-judged suspension. As long as you don't expect too much pace from the engine, the 5-speed gearbox is the only real drawback. The slack action isn't what you want in a nimble supermini and it lets the rest of the driving package down a bit.

"This unit has been developed by Peugeot in partnership with BMW"

The 207 represented a big improvement over the 206 in terms of perceived quality. The materials in the cabin look and feel sturdy with no obvious flaws in terms of the way it all fits together. The lower specification models lack some of the fancy detailing you get as you ascend the range but the interior of a 207 is generally a pleasant place to be. Rear legroom is not as good as in some rivals, although there's a trade-off the shape of a 310-litre boot capacity and the design of the standard ventilation control panel looks a touch dated. The styling themes that have gradually rolled out across the Peugeot model range are nothing if not distinctive and as with anything so wilfully out of the ordinary, the look of the 207 may not be to everyone's taste. For the uninitiated, the 207's main distinguishing features are those elongated headlamps that stretch back from the nose into the front wings and the huge grinning grille below, its teeth braced by a dark central bumper. Around the back, things are less extrovert but the overall look has real purpose about it. The 95bhp 1.4-litre VTi engine sits below the 120bhp 1.6-litre VTi in the 207 hierarchy. It's priced from £10,525 in S trim with the three-door bodystyle but buyers wanting to jazz theirs up a bit can upgrade to the three-door Sport or five-door SE Premium models at £11,225 and £12,425 respectively. The 1.6-litre VTi engine is usefully quicker but £700 more expensive and is only offered in the plusher two trim levels. Even in S guise, the 207 features air-conditioning, a trip computer, a CD stereo, remote central locking, front fog lights and a comprehensive safety specification including curtain airbags, which goes some way to explaining where all the extra weight comes from. Superminis have been getting bigger and bigger over recent years and the 207 is at the far end of that evolutionary scale. It's a substantial vehicle with features and systems that would have been unheard of in a supermini just a few years back. It sacrifices some of the liveliness and immediacy you get with lighter-weight cars in exchange for the comfort and refinement of a larger one and it asks a lot of a 1.4-litre 95bhp engine as a knock-on effect of its bulk. We are seeing signs that the unstoppable growth of the supermini has reached a peak with models like the latest versions of the Mazda2 and the Ford Fiesta actually lighter than their predecessors so supermini buyers could be faced with a choice between the two schools of design, each with perfectly valid features to recommend it. Drive the 1.4-litre VTi 207 in a measured fashion and the variable valve timing technology will help it get somewhere close to the official combined cycle economy figure or 46.3mpg. That looks like a strong performance until you notice that the 1.6-litre VTi achieves exactly the same consumption and identical emissions of 145g/km. It means that there's a strong case for making the step-up to the car 120bhp car which has superior performance and with very similar running costs. Insurance groups are 4E for the 1.4 and 7E for the 1.6 so there is a saving to be made there. There was a time when buyers looking for feisty performance and an engaging drive would have found exactly what they were looking for in a 1.4-litre Peugeot supermini. Today, that isn't really the case. What you do get with a 207 1.4 VTi is a very comfortable and mature feeling product with strong refinement and a host of modern features. The 95bhp engine can sometimes get swamped by the weight of the 207 and its popularity is likely to be hampered by the existence of the 120bhp 1.6-litre VTi engine that achieves identical economy and emissions for only a little bit more money. The 207 1.4 VTi makes most sense in S trim, a level where the 1.6-litre VTi alternative isn't available. As a capable supermini all-rounder covering all the important bases, the car looks good but you do find yourself wishing for a bit more power to make the most of what is a highly accomplished chassis. The sloppy gearbox, 'distinctive' frontal styling and some questionable interior plastics notwithstanding, the Peugeot is hard to fault and it makes a great choice for buyers seeking a safe, well-equipped and affordable supermini.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 1.4 VTi PRICES: £10,525 - £12,425 INSURANCE GROUPS: 4E CO2 EMISSIONS: 145g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 12.8s / Max Speed 115mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 38.4mpg / (extra urban) 58.4mpg / (combined) 46.3mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBFD and EBA. WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 4030/1720/1472

MOVIN’ ON UP
The Peugeot 207 offers style with impressive quality and equipment. Steve Ghosley reports

To follow one phenomenal success story with another takes some doing, but to do it a third time has given Peugeot a huge challenge. Their 205 supermini started it all off in 1983 and things got even better fifteen years later with the 206, a car that was to sell over five million units worldwide. Now the onus has fallen upon the model we look at here, the latest 207.

Despite its sales success, criticism has always persisted over the rather low rent interior finish of the 206, something Peugeot were keen to address with the more up-market 207 supermini. Of course, better quality tends to mean bigger prices and Peugeot worked hard to keep the 207 at affordable levels. Priced from £9,295, Peugeot are taking care that the 207 is positioned closely to key competitors like Renault’s Clio and Fiat’s Grande Punto. That’s despite the fact that they claim their latest model sets new class standards in terms of trim quality and equipment levels. The design of this car follows the corporate image seen on other models in the range like the 307 and 407 with the large ‘smiling’ grille and sharky front light clusters. The neat styling has shades of 206 about it, yet the car is completely different, based on the company’s ‘Platform 1’ floor pan which it shares with the 1007. The striking and rather sporty look, which was designed in-house by Peugeot’s own stylists, should ensure a strong customer following. The car is offered in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback form or as a CC folding hardtop coupe. If you need estate versatility, there are also SW derivatives on offer. Peugeot is building the 207 at three sites in France, Spain and Slovakia, ensuring that they’ll have sufficient capacity to meet demand.

"If you need convincing, just shut one of the doors. They close with a reassuring ‘thunk’…"

Peugeot are offering a choice of six petrol and three diesel engines. The petrol models offered are a 1.4-litre 8-valve unit producing 75bhp, a 1.4-litre 16-valve unit producing 90bhp, a 1.4-litre VTi with 95bhp, a 1.6-litre VTi giving out 120bhp, plus 150 and 175bhp 1.6-litre turbo options. The diesel offerings are all second generation common-rail high-pressure direct injection powerplants and start with a 1.4-litre HDi producing 70bhp. This is followed by a 1.6-litre HDi 16-valve delivering 90bhp and a range topping version of the same engine with a variable geometry turbocharger producing 110bhp. All these units are a result of the joint venture between PSA Peugeot Citroën and BMW Group, the 207 being the first Peugeot model to use them. Sitting inside the 207, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from the 206 in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207, even in its most basic trim level, is head and shoulders above its equivalent 206 model in refinement. The elegant centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilating and audio switches and the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect is very pleasing and gives the impression of a very up-market product. The front seats are very comfortable and appear to give good support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted. Equipment levels? Well, air-conditioning is available in two specifications, dual zone manual or automatic. In addition, each vehicle is equipped with a fragrance diffuser which is discreetly incorporated into the fascia panel and dispenses one of seven selectable fragrances to keep the interior of your 207 smelling sweetly. Each fragrance has been specially developed by a leading French perfume supplier. Useful features include automatic activation of the dipped beam, automatic front windscreen wipers, electric front windows with one-touch automatic reverse control and a remote control for the radio situated under the steering wheel. Safety has been designed into the 207 and has already earned a five star rating from the EuroNCAP tests. The 207’s front end contains two impact absorption structures borrowed from the 407 that distribute impact energy more efficiently in the event of a collision. Sill reinforcements and tubular bars in the doors aid structural rigidity. Numerous airbags are installed in the 207 and the front two ‘adaptive’ airbags have a dual-generator function that can vary their pressures according to the severity of the impact. Side airbags and curtain airbags also feature as standard or as an option, depending on the model level. All 207s are fitted with two 3-point Isofix mountings in the rear outer seats, each of which can accommodate a child’s Isofix car safety seat. Peugeot seems to have cracked it again. The 207 looks the part, is well put together and is definitely a class above its 206 predecessor. If you still need convincing, just shut one of the doors. They close with a very reassuring ‘thunk’. The same as you would experience with a Mercedes-Benz or BMW. The Peugeot supermini success story looks set to continue. As a capable supermini all-rounder covering all the important bases, the Peugeot 207 looks good but with the smaller-engined cars, you do find yourself wishing for a bit more power to make the most of what is a highly accomplished chassis. The sloppy gearbox, ‘distinctive’ frontal styling and some questionable interior plastics notwithstanding, the Peugeot is hard to fault and it makes a great choice for buyers seeking a safe, well-equipped and affordable supermini.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 range PRICES: £9,295-£15,675 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 3-11 CO2 EMISSIONS: 120-166g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.4 8v] 0-60mph 15.6s / Max Speed 104mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.4 8v] (urban) 33.6mpg / (extra urban) 56.5mpg / (combined) 44.8mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4030/1720/1472

ESTATE DEPARTMENT
Peugeot has shown itself to be a strong advocate of the estate car concept and the 207 SW continues the line. Steve Walker reports

A little more practical than a 207 hatch, a little less practical than the top supermini-based MPVs, Peugeot’s 207 SW combines elements from both kinds of vehicle. A full length glass roof brings light to the spacious cabin and 325 litres of boot space will help with family duties. An advanced engine range is another benefit but you’ve got to like the styling.

The assorted baggage that comes with family life can play havoc with your choice of car. One minute you’re young, free, single and thumbing through the classified ads in search of something small, red and sporty, the next you’ve got a couple of kids and a Labrador to take into consideration. The automotive embodiment of the shackles that parents have attached to their sense of motoring style in the maternity ward always used to be the estate, a normal car with extra capacity courtesy of the ugly great box that someone has welded onto the back. Today, things have changed a little and we have the choice of numerous MPVs and SUVs to bear the burdens of family life. All of which leaves the estate looking a little redundant - or does it? Peugeot certainly retains faith in the estate concept, offering SW versions across its line-up including the 207 we feature here. There’s no question that the estate car has evolved following the growth in popularity of MPVs and 4x4s. The MPV tends of have more space inside and a clever seating system that makes better use of it, while the 4x4 tempts families with its rugged image, perceived safety and commanding driving position. It’s no longer enough for an estate to tout itself as a family car with a bigger boot. As a result, we’ve seen larger estate models morph into sportswagons and sports tourers. They are marketed to emphasise their racy styling and driving dynamics that aren’t hampered by bulky MPV bodywork or offroad mechanicals, while tacking on that little bit of extra practicality. At the smaller end of the spectrum, estates based on family hatch or supermini underpinnings have largely taken a back seat to the upsurge of MPVs. Peugeot’s 207 SW, however, is ready to fight the estate’s corner.

"Peugeot’s 207 SW combines elements from both superminis and MPVs…."

The engine range for the 207 SW is a slimmed down version of the line-up offered with the 207 hatch. The diesel options will be particularly popular and here buyers have the choice of 90bhp or 110bhp versions of the 1.6-litre HDi unit. In both its forms, the engine produces hefty torque ratings of 215Nm and 240Nm respectively at 1,750rpm which equates to plenty of muscle to get the family from A to B without too much drama. If you don’t much care for diesel, there are two petrol options. The 95bhp 1.4-litre VTi and the pokey 120bhp 1.6-litre VTi. These powerplants have been produced a result of PSA Peugeot Citroen’s alliance with BMW and the German marque isn’t in the habit of putting its name to duffers. The VTi branding on these petrol units refers to their implementation of variable valve timing. This is an advanced version of the technology which allows the engine management computer to automatically adjust not only the timing of the exhaust and inlet valves but also the lift of the inlet valves. Basically, it can configure the combustion process according to the demands being placed on the engine by the driver with the aim of minimising fuel consumption and emissions without causing a tail off in performance when you give the throttle a good prodding. All 207 models get a five speed manual gearbox. The 207 SW is based on the standard 207 five-door hatchback but it’s 119mm longer and 38mm taller. Inside, the larger body gives you extra luggage space to the tune of 55 litres. That means there’s a total of 325 litres available which can be increased to 1,410 litres if you fold the rear seats down. The seating drops down very simply to create a flat load floor which helps when sliding items inside. There’s additional headroom in the rear as well and the impression of a whole lot more thanks to the full length Cielo panoramic sun roof. For just under £400 more, buyers can opt for a faux 4x4 ‘Outdoor’ version. This offers an increased ride height of 16mm at the front and 21mm at the rear, fitment of 16-inch ‘Outdoor’ alloy wheels and Narbonnais grey wheel arch extensions and sill mouldings. If you’re familiar with the way the 407 SW and the old 307 SW look, you could almost give your retinas a rest and avoid eye contact with the 207 SW completely. Peugeot’s designers have taken a Russian doll approach with their estate range with each model simply a slightly shrunken version of the last. Not that this is a bad thing, if you like the marque’s current frontal styling treatment which is apparently based on the cheesy grin of an adolescent with serious orthodontic issues. At the rear, the estate bit is neatly integrated with the standard 207 shape with the roofline sloping down at the back and a diagonal swage line that meets side window line to create a notch effect. The thick pillars around the rear flanks at the rear of the car don’t help rear visibility. The 207 SW is one of only a few supermini-based estates that are still available on the UK market. Most mainstream manufacturers have put their faith in supermini-based MPVs to cater for the needs of family buyers wanting a small practical car and the 207 SW will need to convince these people that its sleeker shape and sharper driving experience are preferable to the greater flexibility of these rivals. The 207 SW is available in two trim levels, S and Sport. Prices start at £11,745 or £14,045 for the Outdoor model. Buyers can expect some pleasantly thrifty fuel economy figures from the 207 SW’s range of modern engines. Predictably, the best combined cycle figures come from the diesels which both pepper the 60mpg mark. Go for the petrol options and the 1.4 VTi should manage in the region of 45mpg with the more powerful 1.6 only fractionally thirstier. Emissions are similarly eco-friendly with the more powerful diesel utilising Peugeot’s FAP particulate filter to meet the latest European regulations. If your family commitments necessitate a small car with extra space and practicality but you also like a car that’s reasonably good to drive, the 207 SW makes sense. The estate shape is definitely easier on the eye than the amorphous blobs that most small people carriers resemble and if Peugeot’s distinctive styling does it for you, why not? The engine range is perfect for the job and you should get some enjoyment from your time at the wheel. Many manufacturers have abandoned the small estate over recent years in favour of the extra versatility afforded by supermini MPVs. Peugeot remains convinced of the concept’s merits, although at least part of this faith probably stems from the firm’s own lack of a convincing small MPV platform. The 207 SW takes the five-door 207 supermini and produces extra load space through an extended hindquarters as well as increased headroom for rear seat passengers and a greater feeling of airiness in the cabin thanks to a full length glass roof. The design is well integrated and the SW definitely gives something extra over the hatch but is it enough to make this vehicle preferable to an MPV in the eyes of families?

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 SW range PRICES: £11,745-£15,135 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 4-7 CO2 EMISSIONS: 123-160g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.6 VTi] 0-60mph 10.7s / Max Speed 125mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.6HDi 90] (urban) 49.6mpg / (extra urban) 72.4mpg / (combined) 62.8mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4149/1748/1694

SINGING IN THE RANGE
The Peugeot 207 1.4-litre 16-valve models have one of the best engines in the range. Steve Ghosley explains why…

Peugeot’s 207 range features a 1.4-litre 16-valve petrol engine that, although generally competent, would not raise too much interest. Not too powerful, not too expensive, not too thirsty and not too environmentally unfriendly, It pleads guilty to all of these but it also has the ability to make the 207 come alive as an engaging and fun car to drive.

The 1.4-litre 16-valve is offered in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback forms, the clever design ensuring that the 5-door loses none of the sporting style that is inherent to the car’s character. Peugeot is building the 207 at three sites in France, Spain and Slovakia, ensuring as sales start to ramp up, they’ll have sufficient capacity to meet the demand. The 1.4-litre 16-valve petrol-powered models reach 62mph in 15.6 seconds and have a top speed of 104mph. In the economy and environmental arenas, the combined cycle performance of the 1.4-litre 16-valve petrol averages 44.8mpg, with the CO2 emissions figure coming out at a commendable 152g/km. On the road is where the 207 1.4-litre 16-valve really shows its mettle. It revs easily and really sings when driven hard. The steering, ride and handling are superb on both 3-door and 5-door models and they are great fun to drive especially on twisty, hilly roads, with the 1.4-litre engine showing its full flexibility. The gearbox has a crisp feel with the changes being smooth yet positive. Peugeot have taken care that the 207 is priced closely to key competitors like Renault’s latest Clio and Fiat’s Grande Punto. And that’s despite the fact that they claim the 207 sets fresh class standards in terms of trim quality and equipment levels throughout the entire range.

"The gearbox has a crisp feel with the changes being smooth yet positive. "

The design of the 207 follows the corporate image seen on other models in the range like the 307 and 407, with the large ‘smiling’ grille and sharky front light cluster which extends almost back to the ‘A’ pillar. The neat styling has shades of 206 about it, yet the car is completely different, based on the company’s ‘Platform 1’ floor pan which it shares with the 1007. The striking and rather sporty look, which was designed in-house by Peugeot’s own stylists, should maintain the strong customer following. Sitting inside the 207 1.4-litre 16-valve, you can immediately sense that this car is far removed from the 206 in terms of its quality and elegance. Plus the 207, even in the S level model, is head and shoulders above its equivalent 206 in terms of refinement. The elegant centre panel houses all the usual heating, ventilation and audio switches while the binnacle behind the steering wheel features three circular dials, mirroring those usually seen on a motorcycle. The overall effect is very pleasing and gives the impression of a very up-market product. The front seats are very comfortable and give good support. In the rear, as with most vehicles in this sector, the available space is rather limited to the size of the passenger and driver seated in the front. With the front seats fully extended backwards, the space in the back can be a bit restricted. And the equipment levels - are they really class-leading? It depends how you look at it. Two trim levels are available with the 1.4-litre 16-valve – S and Sport. The 1.4-litre 16-valve model does come surprisingly well kitted out even in S level trim with features that include power steering, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows with one touch operation for the driver, stereo radio and CD player, driver and passenger seat height adjustment as well as 60/40 split folding rear seats. A sophisticated braking system is also standard on this car featuring ABS with EBFD (electronic brakeforce distribution) and EBA (electronic braking assistance) ensuring the 207 stops quickly and in a controlled manner. The Sport, in addition, features15-inch Monaco alloy wheels, sports front seats, front fog lamps, on-board computer as well as a leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob. Safety has been designed into the 207 from its conception so it was no surprise that it earned a five star rating from the EuroNCAP tests. The 207’s front end contains two impact absorption structures borrowed from the 407 that distribute impact energy more efficiently in the event of a collision. Sill reinforcements and tubular bars in the doors aid structural rigidity. Numerous airbags are installed in the 207 and the front two ‘adaptive’ airbags have a dual-generator function that can vary their pressures according to the severity of the impact. Side airbags also feature as standard on all 1.4-litre 16-valve models. All 207s are fitted with two 3-point Isofix mountings in the rear outer seats, each of which can accommodate a child’s Isofix car safety seat. These days when the diesel versions of a new model range are usually touted as the ones to go for, it makes a refreshing change to buck the trend and declare that a humble 1.4-litre 16-valve petrol is possibly the best all-round engine available in the 207 range. This easy-revving unit is the jewel in the 207’s crown but could easily be over-looked.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 1.4-litre 16-valve range PRICES: £10,525 - £11,825 INSURANCE GROUPS: 4E CO2 EMISSIONS: 152g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 15.6s / Max Speed 104mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 33.6mpg / (extra urban) 56.5mpg / (combined) 44.8mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin and side airbags, ABS with EBFD and EBA WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 4030/1720/1472

THE GREAT OUTDOORS?
Digging ever deeper in the search for exploitable market niches, Peugeot brings us the 207 SW Outdoor, a small car with a big agenda. Andy Enright reports

Those of you who love the Peugeot 207 SW Outdoor’s ‘visual off road look’ won’t find too much cause for complaint with the rest of the package. A raised ride height, 16-inch alloy wheels and grey wheel arch and sill mouldings give it a more aggressive look than conventional 207 SW models.

As automotive fashion trends go, the rise of the ‘pretend 4x4’ has to be one of the most curious. There have been a number of such vehicles in recent years that possess no real 4x4 mechanicals but ape the look, the Rover Streetwise, the Volkswagen Polo Dune and the Citroën C3 XTR amongst them. It is to France that we must look to find the originator of this species in the Matra Simca Rancho, first introduced in 1977. Automotive historians will be able to tell you that Matra’s successor to the Rancho was the car that spawned the whole MPV boom, the Renault Espace, but that’s another story. Peugeot has realised that the launch of their 4007 4x4 now perhaps gives them a little more authority to build a ‘faux by four’ and the 207 SW Outdoors is the resultant confection. Based on the 207 SW compact estate, the Outdoors follows a familiar theme in its execution but taps a slightly different market to the normal hatchback-based conversions. The engine range for the 207 SW is a slimmed down version of the line-up offered with the 207 hatch and the Outdoor uses a subset of those engines. In all, three powerplants are offered to Outdoor customers. The diesel options will be particularly popular and here buyers have the choice of 90bhp or 110bhp versions of the 1.6-litre HDi unit. In both its forms, the engine produces hefty torque ratings of 215Nm and 240Nm respectively at 1,750rpm which equates to plenty of muscle to get the family from A to B without too much drama. The petrol engine is the punchy 120bhp 1.6-litre VTi, an engine that has been developed as a result of PSA Peugeot Citroen’s alliance with BMW. The VTi branding on this petrol unit refers to its implementation of variable valve timing. This is an advanced version of the technology which allows the engine management computer to automatically adjust not only the timing of the exhaust and inlet valves but also the lift of the inlet valves with the aim of minimising fuel consumption and emissions without causing a tail off in performance when you give the throttle a good prodding.

"The 207 SW Outdoor is one of the better executed vehicles of its ilk.."

The 207 SW Outdoor is one of the better executed vehicles of its ilk, with styling additions that give it some presence without over-egging the recipe, unlike the old Matra Rancho ‘Grand Raid’, that was fitted with such off-road extras as an electric winch on the front bumper and a spare wheel mounted on the roof! Instead, the Outdoor sticks to an increased ride height of 16mm at the front and 21mm at the rear, fitment of 16-inch ‘Outdoor’ alloy wheels and Narbonnais grey wheel arch extensions and sill mouldings. The 207 SW is based on the standard 207 five-door hatchback but it’s 119mm longer and 38mm taller. Inside, the larger body gives you extra luggage space to the tune of 55 litres. That means there’s a total of 325 litres available which can be increased to 1,410 litres if you fold the rear seats down. The seating drops down very simply to create a flat load floor which helps when sliding items inside. There’s additional headroom in the rear as well and the impression of a whole lot more thanks to the full length Cielo panoramic sun roof. So, what’s the premium then? Well, given that the 207 SW Outdoor is based on the 207 SW Sport trim level, it’s fairly easy to calculate just what Peugeot wants for what is a fairly modest set of additions and the answer is a reasonable £375, model for model. The SW Outdoor kicks off at £13,650 for the petrol-engined 1.6 VTi 120, with the diesels costing a bit more. You’ll need £14,020 for the HDi 90 version and £14,740 for the HDi 110. Standard equipment is generous and includes twin front, side and curtain airbags, sports front seats, leather trimmed gear lever and steering wheel, air conditioning, front fog lights, the Cielo glass panoramic roof and opening rear tailgate glass. The 207 SW is one of only a few supermini-based estates that are still available on the UK market. Most mainstream manufacturers have put their faith in supermini-based MPVs to cater for the needs of family buyers wanting a small practical car and the 207 SW Outdoor is a clever attempt to woo these potential customers with a better looking and more dynamic ‘lifestyle’ (how I loathe that term!) option. In short, it’s sleeker, better looking and doesn’t actually lose out much in terms of real-world versatility to one of the smaller supermini-MPVs. Buyers can expect some pleasantly thrifty fuel economy figures from the 207 SW’s range of modern engines. Predictably, the best combined cycle figures come from the diesels which both return excellent figures, the 90bhp version managing 60.1mpg with the 110bhp variant returning 54.3mpg. Go for the petrol option and the 1.6 VTi turns in a very impressive showing of 44.1mpg, making it possibly the pick of the bunch. Emissions are similarly eco-friendly with the more powerful diesel utilising Peugeot’s FAP particulate filter to meet the latest European regulations. Insurance ranges from Group 5 to Group 7 and early estimates indicate that depreciation levels will be among the best in class for compact estate cars. It’s easy to see why some purists get a little exercised about cars that pretend to have certain capabilities but which are actually a good deal more modest in their abilities. Indeed, if you were to subject the Peugeot 207 SW Outdoor to anything more arduous than a smooth gravel track it would likely come up short but that’s hardly the point. There’s almost a knowing nod and a wink about this car. It doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously and offers a slightly better looking and less anonymous ownership proposition than the otherwise rather invisible 207 SW. It’ll never appeal to the mass market but if you’re shopping for a practical car with a bit of personality, a decent selection of engines and no off road ability whatsoever, the 207 SW Outdoor is well worth a place on your shortlist. Rather despite myself, I find myself warming to it.

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 207 SW Outdoor range PRICES: £13,650-£14,740 – on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 5-7 CO2 EMISSIONS: 125-152g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.6 VTi] 0-60mph 10.7s / Max Speed 125mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.6HDi 90] (combined) 60.1mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with brakeforce distribution and brake assist WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 4149/1748/1715

FRENCH CHIC
If you’re going to buy a Peugeot 407 Coupe, then go for this one. Jonathan Crouch on the 407 Coupe Bellagio….

If you’re buying a Coupe, then style will be pretty high up your list of ‘must have’ features. Not far behind will probably come the need for a high standard specification. Peugeot’s 407 Coupe Bellagio aims to satisfy on both counts.

This extra value version of the recently announced HDi 136 diesel model costs little more than the standard variant, yet includes a RT4 Multi Media System that includes Colour Satellite Navigation (with European mapping), TMC (Traffic management information), an audible GSM phone (with inbuilt voice activated hands free controls) plus a MP3 30GB hard drive (for mapping and music storage function), 18" Galaxy alloy wheels (HDi 136 Sport models ordinarily take 17") and twin chromed exhaust pipes. There’s also a choice of two new colours – Flamenco Red or the new Nera Black metallic. All for £21,995, at least £5,000-£6,000 less than a comparable specified BMW or Audi alternative. And the engine? Well, it’s true that 136bhp is a lot less than you’d find in diesel variants offered by German rivals: there’s the 205bhp 2.7-litre V6 HDi model on offer for around £4,000 more if that’s an issue (though you can’t have that car with a manual gearbox). But should it be? After all, this car manages the rest to sixty in 10.1 seconds on the way to a maximum of 129mph. In a BMW or an Audi, you might find yourself yearning for more power. In a 407 Coupe, it’s really about as fast as you want to be going. Not that there’s anything wrong with the handling balance of this car. It’s just that it’s intentionally been set up as a Grand Tourer than a B-road blaster. With some rivals, it’s hard to know which of the two the designers and engineers had in mind, these cars falling between the two stools and achieving neither end. In the 407, you always know where you stand. With the pressure off the need to drive like Lewis Hamilton, you can settle back and enjoy this car for what it is. You could spend three or four times as much and still come up with no more comfortable way of covering very long distances in extreme comfort. Just as well then that RT4 satellite navigation is fitted as standard. So, in addition to the ‘Bellagio’ kit already mentioned, are xenon headlamps, an electrochrome anti-dazzle rear view mirror, cruise control with a built-in speed limiter, rear parking sensors, laminated side windows, dual-zone climate control, central door locking, auto headlamps and wipers, tyre pressure sensors and ESP stability control. If you didn’t know this car’s raison d’etre, you could guess it from a glance at the specification list.

" Try one before you try something German in this class…"

Coupes are brought more on aesthetic values than any other type of car. So what of the styling attributes of this one? As ever, beauty is in the eye of the beholder but few would call this car pretty. Equally well, few would object to the lines. It’s certainly a complex shape. The relationship between the front and rear overhangs takes a little getting used to, weaned as we are on cars that use every inch of their wheelbase to pack in a massive passenger cell. The 407 Coupe is unashamedly profligate in its use of passenger space, offering just about enough in the back and little more. The rear three-quarter view is probably the most flattering aspect, the clean styling of the back of the car showing off the sleek glasshouse to best effect. On the road, this car will hustle happily through a set of fast sweepers and its body control is always unflustered but, as we’ve said, this is not a sporty car. You’ll know within ten yards of setting off that the quiet helm and velvety ride quality instead focus on refinement and civility rather than balls-out aggression. Such is the refinement of the 407 Coupe that you’ll often find yourself travelling far faster than you at first imagined, something worth bearing in mind when coming into a hairpin bend! Peugeot have set something of a precedent to follow with some very good previous Euro NCAP crash test results but the 407 again takes a big step forward. Active safety comes in the form of brake discs with a diameter of up to 330mm and next-generation ESP stability control which is standard on every model. As well as marshalling the anti-skid function, ESP also acts as a controller for the anti lock braking system, the emergency brake assist and the electronic brakeforce distribution to each individual wheel. The chassis itself incorporates not only the highest level of torsional rigidity ever seen on a Peugeot in this sector – as you might expect – but it also features a device known as an impactor that anchors the engine to the subframe and prevents it being shunted into the passenger cell in the event of a crash. Pedestrian protection is a major design criterion these days and the 407 features foam padded bumper bars and a bonnet that deforms to absorb shock, the top of the engine a good distance below that sweeping bonnet line. Up to nine air bags can be specified – twin fronts, side, curtain and steering column units offer optimum protection. The 407 Coupe has been something of a slow burner for Peugeot but this Bellagio variant looks like a decent deal on an under-rated car. Try one before you try something German in this class. Just to make sure….

Facts At A Glance CAR: Peugeot 407 Coupe Bellagio PRICE: £21,995 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 15 CO2 EMISSIONS: 156g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 10.1s / Max Speed 129mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined) 48.0mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front & side airbags, ABS, ESP WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/width/heightmm 4815/1868/1399