Peugeot 207 1.6 HDi 112 CV, test drive (Exterior design, interior and assessment)

We continue with the test of the Peugeot 207 that we have driven with the 1.6 HDi diesel engine producing 112 CV. In the first part we told you everything about the engine and performance, while also looking at handling and fuel consumption. What stands out most is its responsiveness, making it fun on the road, and it is also notable for its frugality in fuel use.

Now we come to the second part of the test, where we slightly alter the usual structure, since the equipment level and engine of our test unit are no longer available following the range restructuring ahead of the arrival of the Peugeot 208. So we have stretched this second part a little and included some notes on equipment, prices and an overall assessment.

Exterior design

We begin by looking at the exterior design of the Peugeot 207, a city car that stands out for its front end, with prominent large light clusters and a grille that has been the star of the design language of the lion brand. In the restyling it underwent in 2010 it received a more compact grille, not as large as the previous one, along with the new positioning of the fog lights.

Meanwhile, at the rear it debuted new lights with LED technology and a much more attractive, up-to-date design, which has allowed it to reach the end of its commercial life without showing its age too much. Some colours are also new, such as the one on our test unit, which were not available until the restyling.

Overall the design has simple lines, but with these small touch-ups it has managed to stay current and keep attracting customers. To fit our 207 we chose Michelin Energy Saver tyres, which limit the sporty behaviour of the model, but are more than adequate for an urban car aiming to be economical.

Interior design, space and finish

The two-part design of the dashboard gives us two areas differentiated in terms of quality: first the upper zone with a padded feel that denotes higher quality, and then the lower section where hard plastics appear (as is so common in this segment).

The dashboard is attractive in its design, as it has personality and much of it uses good materials (always in relation to other city cars). But the worst part goes to the doors, where hard plastics have been overused across the whole panel, which considerably detracts from the overall effect; in general terms the cabin is correct and in line with the segment.

The driving position is low, while also being comfortable. We have covered quite a few kilometres on motorways in the 207 and can confirm it has passed the test well in terms of interior comfort. The steering wheel is adjustable for height and reach, so we can set it to our liking. A armrest is missing, which is noticed on journeys outside the cities.

The rear seats offer enough headroom, and two adults can travel comfortably in them; three, however, will be much tighter. The legroom reminds us that this is a city-oriented model, and the raised central tunnel also reduces comfort for the middle passenger.

The boot has a capacity of 270 litres, which is usable. Within the segment this is normal, since a Seat Ibiza (its direct sales rival) offers 292 litres of capacity. In the French car’s case there are also several storage spaces spread around the cabin for leaving our things, especially in the central console.

Equipment and prices

Three trim levels are available for the Peugeot 207: Access, Active and Allure. In our case the model tested was an Active (the trim with the best value for money).

As standard it includes stability control, front and front side airbags and ABS. Curtain airbags are available as an option, among other items. In the EuroNCAP safety tests the Peugeot 207 achieved five stars in the assessment carried out in 2006.

The starting price is 11,530 euros (Access), 12,870 euros (Active) and finally 16,760 euros (Allure).

Overall assessment

The Peugeot 207 is an interesting model for those seeking a city car at a moderate price, with the advantage that its commercial life is nearing its end, and it is possible to buy it with additional discounts that considerably reduce its final price.

This 112 CV diesel engine is recommended if you want to have fun behind the wheel; otherwise the 92 CV or even the 70 CV diesel may be more than suitable if you plan a calmer style of driving.

Although it has quite a lot of hard plastics, the interior offers more than acceptable quality, and its available equipment includes satnav, a USB port and Bluetooth. So despite its age it remains relevant, and if you liked this model, now may be a good time to buy it ahead of the imminent arrival of the Peugeot 208.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira