The lines of the Peugeot 407 are sleek and stylish.By Eric Blair
RELEASED here in 2004, the mid-sized Peugeot 407 is one of the most stunning looking cars on the road at present, its appearance being dominated by the large whale mouth like grille that we first saw in the 206 and later in the 307.
Initially launched in sedan form, the range has since been expanded to include a five-door wagon with a brilliant two-door coupe due here next year.
Behind the 407’s dominant grille there’s a long, strongly sculpted bonnet, sleek headlights and a roofline that curves upwards then downwards throughout its complete length.
The long C-pillar with the rear doors set way back into it gives the 407 sedan a semi-fastback look.
Despite the extra length of the nose, which is there primarily to provide improved protection for a pedestrian in a crash, there’s no loss of ground clearance.
Inside, the car is as futuristic in the cabin as everywhere else yet there’s a refreshing retro feel to the instruments at the same time.
The overall effect is excellent and this new French car is likely to sell on the strength of its looks alone.
The 407 isn’t a small car, it has similar dimensions to a Mitsubishi Magna or Toyota Camry so is in the running for the Australian family-car buyer looking for something a bit away from the mainstream.
The seats are big and comfortable though there’s less overall legroom than you would expect in a big, front-drive car and the rear seat passengers will find themselves asking those in front to give up a notch or two on their legroom.
The boot is very large, has a generally practical shape and is easy to load.
Three engines are offered – 2.2-litre four-cylinder petrol, 3.0-litre V6 petrol and 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel.
The latter is an ultra-modern unit that typically runs at six to seven litres per 100 kilometres on winding country roads.
Even around town this is unlikely to rise much over eight litres per 100.
Despite this you lose nothing in the way of performance to gain this economy with the engine performance just as willing as the 3.0-litre V6.
On the road the 407’s ride is typically French in its smoothness and comfort.
Handling is generally neutral and there’s that lovely Peugeot feel through the steering.
Ultimately, this big front-drive car will understeer, but you will be going at silly speeds before this will occur.
The 407’s steering and handling are competent enough, although there are some real compromises in its set-up, with the leaning towards comfort not necessarily suitable for all drivers.
While the car gives a smooth ride on motorways, it’s surprisingly firm on Australian back roads.
