Review
Despite the preference for autos on large cars, there is evidence to show that people up-sizing into the executive sector for the first time (or up-marketing when switching from a volume upper-medium car to a premium upper-medium car) tend to go for a manual transmission.
Perhaps the emissions-based BIK system is making a small impression on tax-conscious drivers when they get the opportunity to move up in the world.
##607HDi--none##
The six-speed transmission comes as standard on the 2.2 HDi version of the 607, and while the maximum speed is unchanged, in-gear acceleration has been improved.
The 607 is claimed to achieve 42.8mpg on the combined cycle – no mean feat for such a large car – and offers carbon dioxide emissions of 177g/km from its Euro III compliant diesel engine.
Mind you, the 2.2 auto achieved an average 42mpg on our long term test in 2001.
While executive cars produced by volume manufacturers have traditionally failed to retain their value as well as those wearing a premium badge, the 607, particularly diesel versions, is not as much of a running costs nightmare as some.
It will hold its value far better than a volume upper medium car of the same value, and the Executive pack introduced last year, when added to the S model, has plenty of kit for the money.
There is satellite navigation, a six-CD autochanger, automatic climate control, electrically-adjustable front seats, cruise control, automatic headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, tyre pressure sensors, a trip computer and all-round airbags all as standard.
The transmission shifts more cleanly than in some other Peugeots and, in my view, is preferable to the optional four-speed automatic offered in diesel models, not least because the auto brings out the worst in the engine when kicking down to second gear, with noise levels reaching almost pneumatic drill levels.
Apart from its generous equipment levels and elegant styling, the 607 is also roomy inside, with enough space for five adults to travel in comfort, and the quality of the interior is worthy of a premium car.
Plastics feel of the highest quality and the fit and finish is snug and precise.
The 607 is good to drive, and less of a barge than its size would suggest, although those after true driving enjoyment are still likely to go for something more compact wearing an aspirational badge for this sort of money.
It's a shame, because with so few on the road, the 607 is still exclusive.
The car is obviously not the automatic choice for many company executives, and the addition is a six-speed manual on the 2.2 HDi will not be enough to bring any more deals Peugeot's way, but the 607 deserves a higher profile than it has in the UK.
Model: Peugeot 607 2.2 HDi S Executive
Engine (cc): 2,179
Max power (bhp/rpm): 136/4,000
Max torque (lb-ft/rpm): 232/2,000
Max speed (mph): 127
0-62mph (sec): 11.5
Fuel consumption (mpg): 42.7
CO2 emissions (g/km): 177
Transmission: 6-sp man
Service interval (miles): 12,000
CAP RV (3yrs/60,000 miles): £6,825/32%
HSBC contract hire rate: £394
Price (OTR): £21,720
