Peugeot 407 2005 review

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.