Review
Love it or loathe it, you can’t help but notice the Peugeot 407 with its basking shark-like air intake.
Unquestionably bold, it doesn’t just stand out from run-of-the-mill family saloons, it screams and stamps its feet, demanding the attention of fleet managers and company car drivers alike.
With its power and pace, the HDi 140 model should impress with its ability to tackle long journeys, while its competitive economy and emissions should keep costs down.
And, while its long front end and short tail will divide opinions, one thing which you cannot argue with is the 407’s price given how well it is equipped.
You can step outside the office and stay connected with built-in Bluetooth while on the move and, with Smartnav as standard, it’s hard to get lost or be late for a meeting with its guidance and real-time traffic information.
Throw its 16-inch alloys into the mix – with the added residual value benefit they bring – and it offers value for money too.
An initial drive confirmed the 407 is best as a long-distance tourer.
It doesn’t feel as responsive on the road as its sportiest rivals, but buyers who prioritise comfort are well catered for.
One of the 407’s first challenges was a 200-mile journey to mid-Wales, covering a range of roads, including motorways and rural roads. It didn’t take long to be impressed as the comfortable ride was evident from the off, while progress came without the noise you would expect from a 2.0-litre diesel engine.
Quite simply it was a joy to drive, whether cruising along the M6 or negotiating the tight corners and undulating roads the valleys provide.
Poorly-surfaced roads failed to unsettle the 407 and while it may not feel as responsive as some of its rivals, it does combine proven technology, such as double wishbone front suspension, with the latest electronic wizardry, like improved ABS and ESP, which give it a surefooted stance.
Fuel consumption was excellent too and, just as importantly, I was surprisingly refreshed when I reached my destination despite such a long journey.
The HDi engine produces 140bhp, giving it excellent acceleration, travelling from 0-62mph in less than 10 seconds, with a top speed of 129mph.
It also benefits from fuel consumption of 49.5mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 150g/km – below the all-important 160g/km level for when the capital allowance changes come into force in April.
Peugeot expects diesel engines to account for the major part of 407 sales and, of its diesel offerings, the 2.0 HDi 140 will be the primary choice.
This engine, which complies with Euro V emission standards, reinforces Peugeot’s on-going commitment to achieving the best possible environmental performance.
The 407’s interior feels slightly dated but its equipment levels are tough to better anywhere else and, as a package, it stands out from its contemporaries.
It’s a car that looks simply stunning from some angles and rather odd from others, but then again it is a Peugeot and you cannot help but return to the relaxed driving experience it offers.
Its appeal is undoubtedly evident and together with its extensive equipment offering, it should be enough to guarantee it success in the fleet sector.
Manufacturer's view
Peugeot leads the low CO2 race’ throughout Europe with the largest market share of low-emitting vehicles sold last year.
The 407 builds on this with CO2 emissions starting at
140g/km.
It introduces the latest Euro V range of HDi diesels and the SR range has been specifically designed for the business user with a high-level of specification with satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephony and alloy wheels as standard.
The Peugeot 407 is a long-distance grand tourer, with class-leading engines and high levels of comfort – making it ideal as a dependable fleet vehicle.
Phil Robson, director fleet and used vehicle operations, Peugeot
Standard Equipment
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Bluetooth hands-free telephone kit
- Smartnav navigation system
- Cruise control with speed limiter
- Leather steering wheel
- Electric front windows
- Climate control
- Silver interior trim
- Radio/CD player with MP3 function
- Ultrasonic alarm
- ESP
- Front, side, curtain and steering column airbags
- Trip computer
- Front fog lights
- Remote central locking with deadlocks
- Colour-coded bumpers and body side mouldings
Options
- Metallic paint £375
- Sport steering wheel £70
* For contract hire rates go to comparecontracthire.com
