Peugeot 407 2004 Review

The SV auto sedan has no options...a car doesn't need options when it has everything.

And this one has it all, from rain-sensing wipers to auto headlights.

There is a six-speed tiptronic auto box, JBL six-CD sound, 17-inch alloys, parking distance control, fore and aft fog lights, side and rear sunscreens, cruise control, xenon headlamps and leather seats.

OK, there is one option: You can get a sunroof, on the sedan only.

The SV auto is one of five 407 Sedan models and two Touring (wagon) models released with prices from $42,790 to $58,990. A $51,190 diesel wagon is coming next year and should be a beaut, judging on the dynamics, specifications and quality of this French beauty.

Fundamental to the attraction is the bold new aerodynamic styling.

However, that wedge look where the bonnet slides through the windscreen all the way to the roof line in one sweeping gesture inherently means there will be a thick A-pillar.

In other designs this has caused a potentially dangerous blind spot. The Peugeot includes a small strut in the front side window (much like when these windows had separate air vents). It must give the A-pillar enough support without having to resort to a thick lump of metal.

The sedan is powered by a three-litre, 24-valve V6 engine which produces a delightful induction howl, 155kW of power and 290Nm of cargo-carrying torque at 3750rpm, which is a bit high and results in a slow getaway at the lights.

But, like most French cars, it has long legs that allow it to canter fast and capably on the highway where passing speeds are instantaneous and fuel economy astounding.

In the windy stuff, the driver needs to keep the revs high. It's a joyous duty, thanks to the fast six-speed tiptronic. All the same, down-changes are a little jerky – but not unsettling.

Suspension and chassis design are what you would expect of the rally-bred company: stiff, yet compliant enough for our roads. There is only a hint of torque steer and understeer.

Passenger comfort is good, but space is at a premium. Try three children in the back or two adults.

Luggage space also is a little tight, but at least the boot is flat and accessible, and there is the bonus of a split rear seat.

Safety is provided by eight airbags, including smart bags in the front which detect passenger size and position for harmless but protective inflation.

There also are active front-seat head restraints and pre-tensioners on the front seatbelts.

These are the sorts of features you would expect to find in more expensive machinery.

And thanks to our strong dollar, French cars are good buying at present.