Peugeot 307 HDi 2005 review

Well, not really but when we go to the "servo" once a fortnight and put in our obligatory 40 bucks worth of diesel, people who own petrol 4WDs or big sedans don't like it at all.

They put about $100 worth in a week. That could be going on lifestyle: the wine cellar, Fox TV, a night out.

We can't help it if they made the wrong life decision and went the gas guzzling route rather than the fuel sipping diesel Pug route.

And then there is the car itself.

It's all good, well nearly all good, an automatic would be even better but that's on the way according to Peugeot.

Engine performance is strong and there's plenty of standard equipment. It's easy to park, comfortable for four adults and looks good.

The 307 Hdi we've had in the garage for a few months is a car for the times. And even though it's a 1.6, there is no cringe factor associated with performance. It has at least as much roll-on acceleration as a 2.0-litre petrol car and is no slouch out of the blocks. Practically the only downside from the engine is a diesel sound at idle but that is muted and fades once underway. The gearbox is easy to use as is the clutch.

Standard equipment includes climate control, aircon, ABS and quality audio along with all electric ancillaries. The remote operated windows-up function is excellent.

We use the car often as a wagon even though it's a hatch. The rear seats fold opening a space big enough to fit two mountain bikes on their side and other stuff.

It's comfortable offering generous size seats and adequate rear seat legroom. The boot is large.

At a tick under $30,000, the Peugeot 307 Hdi 1.6 certainly deserves a look, especially if you hate spending squillions on fuel and don't want to suffer an underperforming, space challenged light car.Peugeot has just launched an updated version of the 307 with improved looks, more equipment and a lower price.

That's what we like to hear.