The Peugeot 207- Evolved Hatchback or Problematic Disappointment?

When it comes to selling cars, Peugeot is clever. While many of us were sitting back complaining that we wished the 306 and 205 were back on the market, Peugeot didn't say anything. Instead, they kept designing new cars. The launches of their new vehicles have been shocking over the years. Take the 206, for example. From 1999 to 2005, it was considered to be the best-selling car in the UK.

The question is, does the Peugeot 207 deserve the same recognition? The sizzle that Brits felt toward the 206 wasn't nearly as strong for the 207, especially after the French auto-maker announced they were closing the Ryton plant, located in Coventry, the same year as they were launching the 207. At the same time, small hatchbacks were being rediscovered. The Toyota Yaris, Renault Clio, and the Fiat Grande Punto were up for renewal again, and they were true competition that had to be taken seriously. In order for the 207 to succeed, it would have to fight for recognition.

The question is, have you noticed it? And is it worth noticing?

The Peugeot 207: Design and Car Parts

In order to determine if the 207 is worth your while, it's important to break down the various parts that make up this French car and look at them carefully. One of the first characteristics to consider is the overall design and the Peugeot parts that are used.

There are six engine choices and four trim levels available for the 207. Three of these options are diesel, and while they may look good at first glance, they can quickly add to the overall price tag. For example, if you choose to purchase the 1.6 diesel, rather than the 1.4 petrol, you'll spend about £1,300 more on the car, despite the fact that they both have about 90 horsepower engines. The 1.4 petrol is the most obvious choice for many car buyers, as it is less expensive.

In 2007, changes to the shape of 207 were made. While the body wasn't any different than the 207s of the past, the Peugeot parts beneath were altered in this 207 GTi. The damper rates, springs, and other suspension car parts were changed. The vehicle's 1.6 litre turbo engine, developed with the help of BMW, created 180 pound and 173bhp of torque. This, unfortunately, didn't help it sell, as the weight of the GTi was too much. The 206, which was a best seller in the UK, was 150kg lighter in weight.

The weight problem meant that the 207 hasn't excelled the way the 206 did. It uses more fuel, accelerates poorly, and pumps more CO2 into the air. With today's green thinking, these are features that don't appeal to many buyers. Still, there are some benefits to owning a Peugeot 207.

The Peugeot 207: Interior

While the exterior and car parts of the 207 may be lacking, the interior is somewhat better, especially when compared to the 206. After receiving criticism for the layout of the 206 driving system, Peugeot decided to make a few changes to the 207. The seat, wheel, and pedals are now where they should be, and the wheel adjusts easily so shorter or taller drivers can reach it easily and comfortably.

While the black and white dials and the unattractive centre console are nothing to write home about, they are made with high quality materials. The gear lever and the wheel are made with leather as well.

The legroom suffers, but only a little. A child will most likely be comfortable behind a tall driver or passenger, but if you're toting four adults, space is quickly limited. Speaking of space, you shouldn't expect much when it comes to storage. The boot is adequate, and there are a few map pockets and cup holders. However, hidden storage areas are not available under the seats or the boot floor as they are in many other modern cars. Because of this, you'll need to determine how you'll use the car you're buying before making any decisions about purchasing the 207. If you need storage space, it may not be the car for you.

The 207: Performance

When it comes to performance, the engine beneath the bonnet of the Peugeot 207 offers plenty of power in the 1.4 VTi. With this engine, you can easily go from zero to sixty in as little as 12.9 seconds. The more entry-level engines, like the 1.4 litre HDI and the 1.4 petrol take a little longer to get there. It will depend on how you want to use the car which engine is best for you. On the motorway, and for long distances, the 1.4 VTi is the best option.

While no longer available new, buying a used 207 GTi is a great option if you need speed and power. One road test showed it could easily reach 60mph from standing still in just 7.5 seconds. It was excellent when it came stopping times. Issues with the gearshift and pedals make it hard to drive, though.

One of the strongest points of the 207 is its handling. It has a gentle under-steer, grips well, and is predictable enough for even the newest of drivers to handle. It doesn't have the feeling of 'fun,' but it does offer poised and accurate steering that makes you feel safe behind the wheel.

And it is safe. It has a 5-star Euro NCAP rating to prove it. Whether you're driving on your own or toting your family, you will feel reassured when you're behind the wheel of this car. The noise levels are controlled, the Peugeot parts are high quality, and the entire car is solid. That isn't something the beloved 206 could say.

The Verdict?

While there are definitely some issues when it comes to the design of the 207, it isn't a bad car overall. Peugeot has listened to its drivers over the years, and has created a hatchback that is more grown-up than those of the past. While it may not be as fun to drive as other models or offer as much storage space, it's positive handling, high quality Peugeot parts, and satisfying performance make it a interesting and note-worthy choice.