Peugeot 407 Reviews

Peugeot is one of those brands that go under the radar for most Australians, it's one to which they rarely give any thought of owning, but for comfort and refined road manners the French brand is hard to beat.The 407 was Peugeot's medium-sized offering and came in coupe, sedan and wagon body styles, with a choice of peppy petrol engines and economical diesels.Its lines were elegant, languidly flowing from tip to tail in a wonderful balance of form and function.The coupe was able to accommodate four in comfort, but the more family friendly sedan and wagon had the capacity to transport five.The cabin was spacious, nicely laid-out with comfortable seats and was sublimely quietThere were three equipment levels, the SR budget model, the ST and the SV.All had an impressive range of comfort and convenience features, particularly the higher spec models.The cabin was spacious, nicely laid-out with comfortable seats and was sublimely quiet. The main criticism was a blind spot created by the heavy A-pillars that at times impeded the driver's view.The 407's 2.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine was a free-revving unit that had sufficient performance for most situations, although at times it had to work hard to get there.For those wanting more than the 2.2-litre engine could muster there was the 3.0-litre V6, which answered the call of most seeking performance.But it's the diesels that were the most popular with 407 buyers, particularly the 2.0-litre turbodiesel, which boasted strong mid-range torque for smooth, flexible driveability, impressive performance, and admirable economy.The 407's suspension was supremely comfortableWith more than 400Nm of torque, the twin-turbo V6 diesel was a powerhouse with an attractive blend of performance and driveability.While there was a six-speed manual gearbox available in the front-wheel 407, the vast majority were sold with automatic transmissions. Early models had a four-speed, but it was later updated to a six-speed across the range.On the road the 407's suspension was supremely comfortable, but at the cost of some handling precision. Anyone wanting the sportiness of a German prestige model should probably look elsewhere for their jollys.Being French the Peugeot needs some getting used to for anyone moving into the brand for the first time. Some people find it quirky, and oddly disconnected, while others find the quirkiness interesting and fun, and the driving experience comfortable and refined.Anyone stepping out of a German car would probably be very disappointed with the somewhat vague ride and handling.Being European the 407 comes with issues that affect most European brands, expensive parts and service spring immediately to mind.The 407 doesn't have any major flaws to noteAnyone thinking of buying a 407 should get on good terms with a mechanic experienced in working on Peugeots. They are usually able to service your car for significantly less than a dealer would, and they should be able to source parts at more affordable prices.For peace of mind it's also worth having a mechanic with specialist Peugeot knowledge check your chosen car for you before purchase.The 407 doesn't have any major flaws to note, but is subject to the occasional and frustrating failures of electrical components, particularly ignition coils.The 407 is relatively complex and needs the attention of someone who is familiar with the brandIt's also important to check for a service record, the 407 is relatively complex and needs the attention of someone who is familiar with the brand.The engines have timing belts, which need changing at specified intervals. On the 2.2-litre petrol engine it needs changing every 80,000km or four years, on the other engines the change interval is 180,000km or nine years.Peugeot recalled the 407 in 2011 for a fault related to the engine vacuum pump that could affect the braking performance.There was also a recall in 2010 to check the clearance between the wiring harness and the cooling fan that could result in damage to the harness.

Those at Peugeot who terminated its long and celebrated union on coupes with the famed Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina, and insisted that the successor to the 406 Coupe would be bigger, fatter, heavier and — from where we stand — much less attractive, have a lot to answer for.Granted, the in-house-designed 407 Coupe is still a striking car to behold, and we understand the need for it to have a closer connection with the 407 sedan than with the 406 Coupe.There are also trace elements of the Pininfarina-penned Ferrari 550 Barchetta — often quoted as a source of inspiration for the 406 two-door — such as the menacing grille and new shark's gill detailing.But this is not beautiful, elegant or radiant like the 406 Coupe. Instead, the 407 version embodies a "shock and awe" doctrine and, it seems to us, the false belief now rampant among most of the world's car manufacturers that with each new generation a vehicle must be bigger and plusher to be deemed better.An argument often metered out is that this sort of action is required to make the vehicle safer, and in the case of the 407 there is no doubt it is streets ahead of the 406 on this score. A maximum five stars from the independent European NCAP crash-test program bear this out.The thing is, it is not a better driver's car. Whereas the 406 Coupe offered one of the best front-wheel drive ride and handling combinations of its time — something that was once a Peugeot trademark — the 407 returns to the field in this department.It also has insufficient rear-seat room for its size, which seems incredible when the move from 406 to 407 increased its dimensions 200mm in overall length, 88mm in width, 45mm in height and 25mm in wheelbase.Instead, the 407 Coupe relies on a strong value proposition compared to other European coupes and a unique selling point with a hi-tech — and quite exceptional — twin-turbocharged diesel engine in the range-topping HDi model variant tested here.The result of Ford/PSA Peugeot-Citroen collaboration (and used across several brands including Jaguar and Land Rover), the 2.7-litre common-rail direct-injection V6 in this application develops 150kW at 4000rpm and 440Nm at 1900rpm.Making a delightful combination with the clean-shifting standard-issue six-speed automatic transmission (with a pseudo-manual shift mode), the engine is smooth, muscular and, above all, whisper-quiet.It fails to turn the sports coupe into a fireball from a standing start — indeed, at a claimed 8.5 seconds over 0-100km/h it is quite a bit slower than its exterior demeanour suggests — but there is no real sense of deficit for the driver who can revel in the diesel engine's flexibility and strength at the all-important low and medium revs.This occurs despite the fact that the 1850kg kerb weight of the HDi is up to 112kg heavier than the 155kW/290Nm 3.0-litre V6 petrol model also available.It remains effortless to drive, supremely refined and economical at all times. Indeed, in one of the few occasions we've ever achieved a lower figure than the government fuel consumption rating, we returned an 8.4l/100km average (compared to Peugeot's claimed 8.5l/100km) over a long-distance tour that covered a range of mountainous, free-flowing and dead-straight terrain.Take out the snaking roads and our lasting impression of the 407 Coupe might have been different. But in tight situations, the extra weight of the vehicle — a considerable 365kg more than the 406 Coupe, much of it hanging over the front end — makes it feel less agile than its predecessor.The coupe is stiffer than before, has a wider front and rear track, sits a little lower and uses electronic “active” dampers with its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. It rides on hard-gripping 18-inch 235/45-series Z-rated Pirelli P Zero rubber.It should be much, much better. Sadly, it isn't. Across troubled road surfaces the firm ride can turn crass and uncomfortable and the steering can give rise to some undesirable jiggling. The variable-assistance steering feels too light at speed and the turning circle is a cumbersome 12.0m.The brakes on our test car were prone to squealing and should have shown more resistance to fade in arduous conditions. The headlight performance is outstanding — and unsurprising considering the package includes bi-Xenons and a cornering function — but the Pirellis rumble across coarse bitumen.The doors are very heavy (which some will consider a sign of quality rather than a burden), some of the satellite controls should be moved from on the steering column to the tiller itself and the rain-sensing mechanism takes up an inordinate amount of windscreen space.The large and heavily bolstered leather driver's seat is fabulous for its comfort and support, while position memory and electric adjustment for all directions (bar lumbar) are welcome. The steering wheel has a full range of manual adjustment.Access to the rear compartment is excellent thanks to the electric front seat mechanism, but legroom is poor and the sloping roofline restricts headroom for taller people.The 400-litre boot is simply cavernous, and contains a full-size alloy spare wheel and a six-CD changer. There is a ski-port and a split-fold rear seat. Standard equipment includes seven airbags, traction and stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, trip computer, dual-zone climate control and front and rear parking sensors.Hindsight is hard to ignore. This incarnation has lost the beautiful looks of the 406 and, to a certain extent, its soul.Verdict: 3.5/5 starsGOOD:Refined and muscular diesel engine. Smooth transmission. Superb headlight performance.Cavernous boot. Full-size spare wheelBAD: Sensuous 406 Coupe looks have gone. Lacks agility of its predecessor. Big turning circle. Cabin niggles  

That's right a twin-turbo 2.7-litre V6 diesel engine that is also used in the Jaguar S-Type and the Land Rover Discovery after being jointly developed by Ford.Now it's powering the stylish-looking Pug 407 coupe.It's a curious move, particularly when competitors in the market are essentially marking time before fully commiting to introducing diesel sports cars in Australia.As early as last month, Alfa Romeo's Australian distributor, Ateco, said they weren't sure whether the country was ready for diesel sports cars when they launched four and six-cylinder petrol versions of its gorgeous Brera.In any case Peugeot are pushing the diesel sports message big time overseas.They are coming out with an LMP1 diesel for the Le Mans 24-hour race next year with a car that they claim boasts more power and torque than Audi's R10 which won the race in June.Diesel is very much the word in sports car racing in Europe.But how oil-burners go on the street, particularly in Australia with vehicles perceived to be sports cars, remains to be seen.Although the 407 coupe has stunning low slung lines it is more of a cushy cruiser rather than a go-hard two-door.At 150kW the HDi engine has five kilowatts of power less than the petrol version. However, what it may lack in oomph it more than makes up for in torque with 440Nm, a full 150Nm more than the petrol.And the beauty is you can't hear the clang and clatter of the diesel even sitting at a standstill.It is oh-so-quiet in the cabin.All this silence has been helped by double glazing, a laminated windscreen and plenty of sound deadening in the fire wall.There is a nine-setting electronic suspension which comes standard with damping continuously adjusted to help keep body control in check.Ride quality is reasonably neutral and while it is not as firm as a sports coupe it doesn't dampen a more vigorous drive experience.There is enough flexibility and torque with this six-speed automatic gearbox for there to be little reason other than overcoming boredom to push the shifter to the left and have a play with the sequential function.At low speeds the turbos kick in with little or minimal delay and it also keeps things nice and neat in the front with no trace of torque wanting to reef the wheel from your hands.Inside, the cabin is nicely appointed, however the controls are fiddly and not easy to decipher.And there is not a lot of room to put stuff like mobiles and things so they don't fly across seats and on to the floor.The other gripe is the ghastly looking steel bar that is exposed near the floor on each side which is an anchor for the seatbelts which slide backwards and forwards.The doors are almost dumbell heavy and they have hooks on the inside at the bottom which slide into two holes the frame underneath the door sill for extra rigidity.On this test over 700km, the Pug returned about 7.9litres/100km which is not great but it's certainly more economical than petrol and was a little under the factory claim of 8.4litres/100km.This Pug, which looses none of the pizzaz of the previous Pininfarina styled 406 coupe, gains big marks for what's in the boot a fullsize 18-inch spare.There is a long, long list of standard equipment including all the electronic safety control systems, front, side, curtain and knee airbags, JBL premium sound system with boot-mounted six-stacker and electronic parking sensors and leather trim.In fact the only options are $2990 for the premium leather and $1000 for Bluetooth.

In the past, these engines were fairly rudimentary, barely more refined than something lifted from a commercial vehicle.Not now.The latest addition to Peugeot's diesel lineup is a high tech, twin turbo, common rail 2.7-litre V6 that's available in the elegant 407 Coupe. It will soon be available in the nearly as appealing 407 sedan and wagon.Presumably, the 2.0-litre four cylinder turbo diesel currently available in the latter two will remain in the lineup as well as the 3.0-litre V6 petrol.But who'd want the petrol V6 engine when the diesel is so much better in every way and it's the first diesel coupe ever offered on the Australian market.It sounds better, offers a huge amount of torque and consequently stronger acceleration, uses minimal fuel and complies with the stringent Euro4 emissions regulations.Did I mention that it's hooked up to a smooth shifting six speed automatic transmission.The V6 diesel is virtually the same engine in the new Jaguar S-Type diesel but that vehicle costs tens of thousands more than the 407 Coupe diesel at $72,500. It's good for 150kW/ 440Nm output from as low as 1900rpm.Put into perspective, this amount of torque is produced by self respecting V8 petrol engines of nearly twice the capacity.The car itself is handsomely equipped with the usual luxury features but some relatively unusual stuff too.Directional bi-xenon headlights that look around the corner are included in addition to cruise control with a speed limiter to keep you legal, front and rear parking sonar so you don't dent the model, premium hi-fi to groove to, automatic headlights and wipers for when you're feeling lazy and heated front seats to keep your butt warm.The Coupe scores a five star NCAP crash test rating which means cutting edge safety inclusions like Electronic Stability Program, ABS and multiple air bags.It's a big coupe, almost the same size as Monaro but with much more presence on the road.Plenty of room is provided for four inside the cabin and the boot is large for such a car.As expected, the Coupe has a composed ride offering smooth supple suspension or alternately, firmer sporty dynamics at the touch of a button. The same applies to the transmission with an "S" for sport mode and sequential change.It's quiet inside like a luxury car should be and the pampered feeling extends to the seats, leather upholstery and all other interior features. Access to the rear seats is through long doors which can be an issue in tight parking.The diesel 407 Coupe is great to drive offering sporty performance and excellent roll- on acceleration at will. Fuel economy hovers around the 7.5-litres/100km mark and it doesn't sound half bad either.

The Aisin six speeder with sequential manual change mode launches in the 407 Touring and makes a good car better.The price is $51,990 for the Comfort model while the Executive goes for $54,690.The six speeder goes into all 2.0-litre ST HDi Pugs from now on apart from existing stocks of the four speeder.There is no price premium for the six speeder.As expected, it gives improved performance and fuel economy which can go as low as 5.5-litres/100km - an amazing result for what is essentially a medium large sedan or wagon.Noise levels also drop thanks in part to reduced engine revs for any given speed. The six speeder helps acceleration off the mark and cruising is more relaxed thanks to a wider spread of gear ratios.We took a test drive in the latest 407 wagon with a six speed auto and it served to reinforce our previous opinions about the car. It's a great touring vehicle and one for drivers who want a long range of up to around 900km on the 66 litre tank.It's been crying out for a six speed auto for a year or two to fully capitalise on the prodigious pulling power of the HDi 2.0-litre which generates 320Nm at 2000rpm.That correlates to around 2000rpm at the speed limit in top gear.The sequential change adds a sporty element to the 407 but is hardly necessary when it's just as easy to plant the right foot and use the engine's torque.This is a large vehicle and it has a presence on the road thanks to individual styling and a wide squat stance.The test vehicle was the luxury model and misses out on little.

Which was just as well, for any alert Spanish patrol cop might have been drawn to the convoy of 35 Peugeot 407 Coupes making its high speed way from Granada to Priedo de Cordoba.Peugeot prudently chose "courses for horses" for the international launch of its stunning new 407 Coupe – the sweeping, open highways of southern Spain near devoid of traffic being an ideal proving ground for what the French maker calls a Grand Tourer.Grand touring it most definitely was, with the stylish 407s – 3-litre V6 petrol and 2.7-litre V6 HDI models – consuming kilometre after kilometre in luxurious comfort and with loping ease.The twin turbo diesel with its fat (440Nm) band of torque from as low as 1900rpm particularly impressed, indicating just 2500rpm on the tachometer as it cruised effortlessly at around 150km/h.Power wise, the petrol model has the edge, coming in at 155kW at 6000rpm – 5kW better than the diesel – but in practical terms, such as economy and durability, the HDI prevails.The diesel is also a good environmental citizen, thanks to a particle filter which is "better than 99 per cent" efficient in emission control.This is an all new engine, until now only available in the new 607 model.Both petrol and HDi models are destined for Australia in the second quarter of 2006, the petrol version in six-speed manual format from around $65,000 (add another $3000 for auto) through to the diesel in six-speed automatic format only for around $72,000.Spokesman Matthew McAuley said Peugeot Automobiles Australia hoped to sell 200 407s a year, which was being "fairly conservative".Locals will gain their first glimpse of the new Coupe at this month's Australian Inter- national Motor Show in Sydney.Although the two-door Coupe follows in the wheel tracks of the 407 Saloon, there are a number of aesthetical and practical differences. For one thing, the driving position is some 200mm lower and set back 9mm to give more of a sporty feelStyled by Peugeot's own in house design team, the Coupe has a pronounced front overhang of more than one metre, gaping grille, long-slanted headlights and aggressive side gills that give it a shark like appearance.Whether it will gobble up its rivals, the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes CLK, only time will tell.The Coupe is a genuine four-seater, and comes in three interior specs. Two-tone leather upholstery and aluminium trim is a quality touch.A 0-100km/h figure of around mid 8 seconds for both models is not staggering, but Peugeot appears to have gone for refinement instead of raw performance. It's more about the journey, rather than how fast you get there.Not surprisingly, the diesel is more frugal than its petrol-driven sibling, sipping 8.5L/100km as opposed to 10.2 (mixed cycle driving).The ride is smooth but compliant, with sharp steering response and minimal body roll.Equipment specs are generous, with ESP, cruise and dual zone climate controls, direc- tional xenon headlamps and front and rear parking sensors.There's seven airbags, 18-inch alloy wheels, tyre pressure sensors, laminated side windows and, as an option, sunroof.The new 407 Coupe will be a welcome addition to what is already an enticing prestige market segment. In Europe, the 407 is the second best seller in its segment.Best of all, it comes from a maker that knows how to build a coupe. After all, Peugeot was the first to introduce one, in 1898. 

How times change. The modern diesel is a thing of beauty and a servant of the most prestigious of marques.BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, Citroen, Renault ... the list goes on, to the extent that diesels outsell petrol in many European markets.Australia is another story but it is changing and with cars like Peugeot's 407 HDi in the vanguard diesels are moving into polite society. The 407 is a particular car in any event, with the look of a feeding whale shark about the grille and French flair dripping from every curve.In the touring (read "station wagon") the styling becomes even more "particular" with a rear end both sleek and individual.The 2.0-litre turbo-charged diesel's seemingly modest 100kW of power is more than compensated for by an impressive 320Nm of torque which is on tap from just under 2000rpm almost right through to the mid-4000rpm level.That constant urge makes sense in this four-speed automatic with little need for the gears to hunt in search of the meat in the torque curve.Peugeot has a history of diesel innovation and while the rest of the industry has caught up, few have surpassed and the 407's common rail, high-pressure, direct-injection offering is fair proof of that.The engine is quiet, has negligible lag and returns impressive fuel figures in the 6.0l/100km range in combined cycle.That equates to a potential 1000km from the 66-litre tank.Ride comfort in this small car is exceptional without sacrificing too much in the way of body control and the styling of the cabin is something to behold.The huge glass roof – fixed but with interior blinds – almost makes sense of this most ludicrous of motoring features. If you must have one, have a huge one.The seats are embracing and very comfortable with good adjustment for both driver and passenger.Placement of the various controls on the dashboard has resulted from considerable thought with most things readily to hand.There is storage to burn with cup-holders scattered throughout the car, plenty of little – and not-so-little – storage bins and room for all to stretch.Instrumentation is easy to read and clearly displayed, even if the highlight marks on the speedo do not correspond with Australian speed limits. This is not a big issue but something for a driver to take into account.There are many comfort and safety features on the 407 that come as a pleasant surprise. Rain-sensing wipers which adapt to the intensity of the rain, self-levelling xenon headlights with an automatic on feature for low-light situations, an easy to use cruise control and electronic park assistance all add to safety and comfort.Overall, there is very little about the 407 not to like, if you can come to terms with the design. The fit and finish is exceptional, materials scream quality, the French flair for individual styling is evident throughout the cabin and diesel is the icing on the cake.At $54,690 for the HDi Touring Executive the 407 is not a budget car. It does, however, represent good value for its long list of standard inclusions ... and there is also comfort in the knowledge that it is unlikely too many of your associates will have one.

Petrol prices are on an upward trend here again so diesel cars are looking more attractive despite a rapacious diesel tax.Peugeot is partially responsible for popularising the diesel passenger car – it's been making them for decades and recently introduced a 2.0-litre, common rail turbo diesel to the new 407 range.This stunning looking car that quietly appeared on the local market late last year is available in a number of configurations including a 2.2-litre petrol four cylinder, the turbo diesel and a 3.0-litre petrol V6.While the V6 is smooth and sweet, Peugeot seems better at making fours. Apart from costing less, they gel in all the right ways and the diesel in particular has many endearing features, not the least being a touring range of up around 1000km on a tankful.It's not bad in a medium size luxury sedan with a five star NCAP safety rating and heaps of equipment to be able to fill up in Sydney and not need a refill until Brisbane or complete the Melbourne – Sydney run with no bowser stops.The diesel cranks out a handy 100kW of power and 320Nm of torque 340Nm on "overboost". Maximum torque is available at a low 2000rpm. Best fuel consumption is a claimed 4.9 litres/100km on the highway cycle and it also passes the stringent Euro IV emissions regs.The base diesel goes for about $48 grand but we were able to sample the high range six speed manual model which sells for a bit over $50 grand. It includes leather upholstery, electrically adjustable driver's seat, climate control and plenty more.As expected, handling is confident with flat cornering and a supple ride. There's a new double wishbone front, multi-link rear suspension taking care of that.Performance is impressive thanks to all that torque and well chosen gear ratios, Even sixth has plenty of pull on the highway despite using only 1750rpm at 100kmh.The engine is a little raucous at idle but innocuous once underway.From a practical point of view, the 407 offers a large boot with a full size spare, plenty of interior room and a modern, technical ambience spoiled only a bit by mock woodgrain trim. There are some clever features like exterior mirrors that fold in when the car is centrally locked, rain sensing wipers and plenty of storage and convenience compartments are dotted throughout the cabin.The 407 has a big visual impact that owes nothing to any generic styling theme currently used. It has a long nose and bobbed tail but the shape is sleek and practical.The auto is a four speeder which is a little disappointing because a six speeder is available with the V6.But things will change when Peugeot eventually adopts the 2.7 V6 turbo diesel it jointly developed with Ford and that is currently used in the new Land Rover Discovery and Jaguar diesel. It's tipped to make an appearance in Ford Territory too.Peugeot is in a strong position to take additional sales with the 407 as buyers become more aware of its strengths, style and value for money. Lineup changes to some of its European competitors will also make the 407 more financially appealing.

The French marque has used a large supercar-like air intake and trademark feline headlights to set the scene for a chic, sophisticated profile, which looks alluring from any angle.But styling is only one element of this outstanding vehicle which rides, drives and handles in near flawless manner.The 407 comes to the market crammed with equipment at a most reasonable price – underscoring its relevance.The entry model 407 sedan costs $42,790, rising to $55,990 for the top model, while the touring (wagon) models range from $47,990 to $58,990.An amalgam of excellent mechanicals, finely-tuned chassis and sporty interior give the replacement for the hugely-successful 406 heart and soul, which – along with the appealing 307 – should spearhead the brand's following in 2005.The new car and wagon line-up arrived in Australia only five months after its European debut – backed by a five-star European crash test rating to commend it as one of the world's safest vehicles.This illustrates the general integrity engineered into the flowing body lines, plus such live-saving aids as anti-lock brakes, dynamic stability control, electronic brake force distribution and no fewer than eight airbags across the range.Even the hazard warning lights are activated under emergency braking.So the 407 is safe, swish and sophisticated – not to mention a joy to drive, whether cruising around town or lighting up the mechanicals in enthusiasts' country. The 407 line-up offers a choice of 2.2-litre and three-litre engines, and a two-litre common-rail turbocharged diesel.Buyers get a choice between standard six-speed manual gearbox or electronically controlled four-speed automatic with manual control on the 2.2-litre model, four-speed auto only for the diesel version and a six-speed auto is fitted to the V6.The test model was the range-topping SV powered by a 155kW, three-litre V6, which features variable valve timing and a clever dual-mode exhaust system for optimum emission evacuation and noise insulation.The engine the 407 shares with the Citroen C5 is a lively, free-revving unit, which is whisper-quiet when strolling around town.When asked to perform in the grand manner, the smart exhaust allows a nice, throaty roar to develop, totally in keeping with a sports sedan.Peugeot has bought in a new six-speed automatic from Japan for the V6 which is perfectly compatible with the engine.As with all modern sequential autos these days, the 407 allows the driver to change gears with throttle pressure or take charge manually.Whichever style of driving is used, gear changes are impressively smooth. There is a fail-safe mechanism which prevents selection of low gears when engine revs are high. The drivetrain operates efficiently without any irritating shift shocks along the way.The V6 also benefits from its own suspension and steering for pin-sharp response at high speed.Variable electronic suspension features four independently, electronically controlled dampers with nine individual settings, plus variable-rate power steering.Everything works with a sky-high level of efficiency.The body retains an admirable flat attitude even when cornering forces load up the chassis, and steering is precise.Meanwhile, ride comfort maintains lounge-room comfort – surprisingly even when the stiffest settings are selected.The 407 interior is a sumptuous study of generous proportions, comfort and features.Wrap-around seating offers a wide range of adjustments as well as good support for relaxed driving.When cornering, the seats hold the driver and front seat passenger in position.The thick-grip, small steering wheel will appeal to enthusiast drivers.And the dashboard has been cleverly designed to ensure everything is at hand and intuitive.Peugeot has taken everyone's needs into account with lots of storage space, cup holders, courtesy lights and illuminated vanity mirrors for both the driver and front passenger.The SV gets a full leather-trimmed cabin with electrically-operated and heated front seats.To enhance the comfort of rear-seat passengers, there are roll-up blinds in the side doors and a retracting blind on the back window – for privacy or to reduce the sun's rays. Designers have blended the old with the new with analogue dials and a digital information panel.One small criticism. The speedometer is calibrated in odd-numbers leaving Australian drivers guessing where 60km/h really is. With such a spirited vehicle, it is too easy to find oneself driving at a speed which can earn a speeding ticket.The 407 has a number of features which deserve mention.Rain-sensing windscreen wipers automatically activate, then adapt to the intensity of the rain.The cruise control is particularly user friendly.Headlights come on automatically when light deteriorates. They are self-levelling xenon with clear glass and headlight washers.The car comes fitted with electronic park assistance. Four sensors measure the proximity of the car to other objects when reversing, with audible warnings assisting the driver.Fit and finish deserves special merit marks. The narrow panel gaps tell their own story that Peugeot is confident the car will not flex.IN SUM: A car which reflects its Parisian birthright with looks and panache which commands admiration.The car rides and drives impressively enough to rate comparison with the best from Germany – the global benchmark for automotive brilliance.Peugeot has a long history in Australia. A 203 won the first round Australia reliability trial in 1955 and has built a faithful following of owners who have never had cause to regret ownership.Models like the 307 and 407 are certain to grow the brand's sales Down Under.

The introduction of probably Peugeot's best sedan – the 407 – carries with it the curse of Cyrano de Bergerac.Yes, in all its glory, the Peugeot is immediately identified by a long nose and a wide-mouthed radiator grille.Numerically, it's not that big. Physically, it's noticeable.The long nose is courtesy of upcoming US and European laws which require extra car body crumple zones to minimise pedestrian injuries.The grille maximises engine cooling needs.Though the styling is constrained by Cyrano hanging off the front, the rest of the car is sweet and could be penned by Ferrari-stylist Pininfarina.It works well, too, with wide doors that give access to a spacious and well-decorated interior.Depending on which model you can afford, the fabric and colour themes differ, but there's no escaping that welcoming interior.It's conservative in a way befitting the expecting clientele, with a dominant binnacle supporting chrome-edged gauges, a polished centre section that supports the automatic's gear lever, and splashings of faux wood.The upholstery is leather and, typical of the French, is soft like an armchair, giving levels of support directly proportional to the occupant's body weight.Visibility is woeful, but it's not out of whack with industry trends. You learn quickly that it can be an expensive exercise to misjudge parking against a brick wall.You also learn that the 407 is quite a remarkable machine.On a brisk run from Perth to Northam, it soaked up the bumps so well that you'd think it was a glide down a deserted Mitchell Freeway.Through the corners it showed precise steering and neat handling.The V6 engine gets it right by balancing strong low-end torque with plenty of upper rev-range excitement, putting it close to the sporting-car league.One reason for the engine's flexibility and the pleasing performance across a wide range of road conditions is the six-speed automatic box. Fitted with a Tiptronic function so you can play at manually changing gears – though, why bother? – the cogs slide up and down quickly and smoothly, with excellent kick-down response for overtaking in the country.Again, it is the quietness and comfort of the car while it's being pushed hard that makes it such an enjoyable drive.If I was picky, I'd be complaining about the oddly angled handbrake lever and asking the French boffins to straighten it up a bit. And I'm sure they would respond, in time.I wouldn't complain about the five-star accommodation, or the big boot. Or the engine that is deliciously responsive, though we'd all want better fuel economy.Yes, definitely one to think about as one of 2004's better releases.