Peugeot 207 SW Sport VTi 120

Nov 28 2009 Patrick James

THE Peugeot 206 was one of the world's best selling cars, so replacing it had to be a delicate affair.

So the 207 not only had to be a good car, it had to appeal to those loyal to the 206, which continued in production alongside the new model for a while.

Sales figures don't lie and the 207 has continued where the 206 and even the 205 before it, left off and is one of the best selling small cars in Europe.

Like most of the Peugeot range, there are a number of variations in spec, body style and engines.

The SW, or Sport Wagon, is the latest code for the less glamorous estate.

But the 207 is something more than an extended version of the saloon. It has its own dramatic styling and offers practicality, performance and style and best of all, good economy.

The sleek lines and bigger body fooled many into believing this was a bigger car when parked.

It's tapered shape with rising waistline to a dramatically-styled rear end is eye-catching, as are the 15-inch alloy wheels.

The front end too is distinctive with the trademark open-mouth grille, which is not to everyone's taste.

What's good on the outside is replicated on the inside.

Peugeots have always had a classy interior and the 207 is no different.

Large, comfortable seats and decent headroom belie the fact that this is a supermini while soft touch plastic and fabrics give it an expensive feel.

The console and instrument layout is logical and eye-catching.

Even basic models are well equipped with the usual electric goodies, while the test model offered a host of added extras like the panoramic glass roof, automatic wipers and headlights, aluminium roof rails and an opening tailgate window for easy access to the rear.

Safety features abound and include five-star NCAP safety rating, front and side airbags, (curtain airbags were included on this model) anti-lock brakes, but strangely, stability control is an optional extra on all models.

A stylish looking car, this can soon be adapted to a serious load lugger.

Boot space on the SW is up from 270 litres on the saloon to 358 litres, and 1,258 with the rear seats folded. There is also space under the boot floor and useful hooks and eyes for securing loads.

The loading sill is also quite low, making it easy to load shopping of children's paraphernalia.

The French love their diesels, but the superb 1.6 petrol engine the powers this model is both willing and economical.

It produces 120bhp, but feels more powerful.

Acceleration is brisk, with 0-60mph completed in a respectable 10.7 seconds while it has a top speed of 125mph is achievable where permitted.

Best of all is the mid range torque, or pulling power, which means overtaking is a breeze, particularly on the motorway. It is also surprisingly economical with 44.8mpg claimed, which is excellent for a 1.6 petrol engine.

Carbon dioxide emissions of 150g/km mean this is a greenish machine.

The suspension is firm giving a good ride, which is only really unsettled on the roughest of surfaces while the steering is direct with plenty of feedback for the driver.

Handling is also good thanks and the car feels safe and stable under heavy cornering.

The SW is versatile, not that cheap, but well equipped and Peugeot have upped their game in terms of quality.

FAST FACTS

Peugeot 207 SW Sport VTi 120

Price: £15,695

Mechanical: 120bhp, 1598cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 125mph

0-62mph: 10.7 seconds

Combined mpg: 44.8

Insurance group: 7

CO2 emissions: 150g/km

BIK rating: 16%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles