Review
The car in question for me was a 206 GTi 180 when I headed for the UK press launch in the heart of the beautiful Derbyshire Dales.
From the outside the car, which is on sale now, looks great. The 206 has always been an attractive looking car so the GTi's 17-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler and twin chrome-plated exhausts set it off a treat.
The interior is just as impressive. Its comfortable racing style suede-trimmed bucket seats are awesome, and grip you like an over-enthusiastic aunty at Christmas.
The car's sporting characteristics continue with aluminium pedals and gearknob, leather steering wheel and a sporty dashboard.
All GTi 180 models come with automatic air conditioning, automatic windscreen wipers with rain sensor, automatic headlights and electrically heated and folding door mirrors.
Our test route for the day was mixture of long, straight roads, tight bends and single-track roads. Fortunately it took place during one of our recent hot spells and the overall driving experience of the 206 GTi was great fun.
Crank up the stereo system, set the air-con to low and put your foot down hard. Or, and that's the great thing about this car, put your stereo volume on five, tune into Radio 2 and just meander round the country lanes without a care in the world. This car doesn't encourage you to drive quickly just because it can.
But rev the engine higher and you'll find cornering is good with the car sticking to the road.
And its brakes are excellent. If you want to stop quickly, then this car will do exactly that with the minimum of fuss. Sudden braking also activates the hazard lights automatically.
The steering is responsive and weighty which suits the car well. It assaults your senses, allowing you to feel every bump in the road, building your confidence the more you drive.
With CO2 emissions of 204g/km and an on-the-road price of £14,995 a 22% tax-payer will pay £791 for the year.
Fleet sales aren't expected to account for many of the GTi's total registrations but the car deserves a rightful place on user-chooser lists. Although sporty in appearance, the car's looks are still sober enough to show a business, albeit a funky one, in a good light.
Peugeot 206 GTi fact file
Make: Peugeot
Model: 206 GTi 180
Max power (bhp/rpm): 180/7,000
Max torque: (lb-ft/rpm): 152/4,750
Max speed (mph): 140
0-62mph (sec): 7.4
Comb fuel consumption (mpg): 32.8
CO2 emissions (g/km): 204
Transmission: 5-sp man
On sale: Now
Price (OTR): £14,995
