7 February 2011
Peugeot's smallest kiwi model, the 206 has finally been replaced after almost a decade of faithful service - with a new slightly larger, slightly more aggressive 207 model.
The replacement for the tiring 206 couldn't have come sooner. Despite over 5.3 million 206's being sold globally - the most popular of the brand's models, the 206 was starting to wane in image and functional applicability when compared with some of the competent and stylish new superminis entering the market over recent years.
The 207 though successfully revitalises Peugeot's offering to the segment with a combination of both bubbly linage and a much-accentuated take on the Peugeot 'whale shark' frontal treatment.
The wheel arches sprout from the front guards and rear quarter's low-slung waistline giving the vehicle a squat wide-body appearance, while the 'feline' head lamps streak rearwards giving the 207 a speedy sort of look - like a 206 that went too fast and stretched its face.
The exterior has grown in every direction, and now rivals the 307 in its dimensional footprint. The 207 is 268mm longer, 75mm wider (excl. mirrors) and 39mm taller than the 206 but a mere 121mm shorter, 9mm thinner and 58mm less tall than the 307.
Interior dimensions have also increased and the cabin is much less claustrophobic than its predecessor, while the decor tastefully mirrors exterior design features, such as the outline of the Peugeot badge and taillights.
Looking the part is one thing, but Peugeot have made sure the 207 is as much a treat for the olfactory as it is the eyes.
The attractive passenger compartment (of all but entry spec models) can be optioned with a fragrance diffuser that emits the sweet scents of 'lime fresh', 'vanilla spirit' or 'pure sensation' from its interchangeable cartridge. Maybe not a 'must-have' cost option the blokes will be beating down the dealer's doors for; but for the 207's female biased demographic, a point of difference worth savouring.
Standard equipment everybody will appreciate comes in the way of front, side and passenger airbags, ABS, ISOFIX child restraints, 60/40-split rear seating and shopping hooks in the boot.
The base model, XS manual, with a 1.4 litre, 54kW petrol engine doesn't offer much other than Billy basic motoring for it's $24,490 price tag. It misses out on electric windows for rear occupants, alloy wheels, seatbelt warning device, a leather steering wheel, MP3 compatible stereo, auto headlamps and a luggage net. No opportunity to up-spec either, with many more features omitted from even the optional extras list.
However a strong focus on safety across the range and Electric Stability Program (ESP) is a saving grace here; ESP can be added across the board and all 207 purchasers are offered piece of mind with a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
Moving up a level in spec also lifts the 207 out of the typical pricing realms of the small car segment. The XSP 1.6 litre petrol automatic is priced $31,990 while the equivalently spec'd HDi 1.6 litre turbo diesel adds a further $2000.
The XSP petrol delivers a healthy 88W @ 6000 rpm and 160Nm of torque @ 4250 rpm, but true to Peugeot form it's the diesel power plant that is the showstopper. Utilising the latest in particulate filter technology and a variable geometry turbocharger the HDi produces low exhaust emissions and high levels of torque throughout a wide spectrum of its rev range.
There's no shortage on the performance front from the HDi when the pedal goes down thanks to the 80kW @ 4000 rpm and 240Nm available from just 1750 rpm, the versatility and smoothness of the engine combined with a clean shifting 6-speed manual (no auto is available) makes for a winning combination.
A shame the range topping 'Sport' variant doesn't come with the oil burner under its bonnet; that compromise however is softened with the added bonus of fog lamps, tyre pressure monitor, ESP, rear parking sensors, climate control, a styley panoramic glass roof, air conditioned glove box and directional headlights. Not a bad swag all in all given the $36,990 asking price.
No matter what the model, handling is crisp and predictable. The wide track and short wheelbase culmination delivers excellent road holding, the 207's chassis dynamics are class leading and the steering offers a high degree of feel.
The range will be extended in July to include the hot hatch three-door GTi and coupe/convertible (CC) versions with a stationwagon on offer from September, be sure to watch the AA's new car reviews pages for an overview of these models.
The 207 bridges the gaps many other small cars fail to fill. It carries just enough price premium to retain the European car aspirational appeal, yet isn't well out of reach for those wanting to take that step up, it's small and easy to drive but still offers up enough comfort for a family outing when required.
Perhaps the Pièce de résistance though, it's a car that rewards driving enthusiasts and suburban style gurus in equal measure.