Two new versions of the Peugeot 207 will go on sale in the UK in March this year, making use of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine currently serving its time under the bonnet of the
new MINI Cooper.
BMW and the PSA Group (Peugeot/Citroen) jointly developed this engine, which is produced in France. It features variable valve timing on both inlet and exhaust camshafts and also employs a variable inlet valve lift mechanism that does away with the need for a throttle, which increases overall efficiency. The result is decent fuel economy and low emissions.
However, this engine is characterful too and has plenty of urge, with 120bhp and nearly 120lb.ft of torque. Peugeot claims 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds for the manual version and a top speed of 125mph. These are down fractionally on the MINI Cooper, due to the added mass of the 207.
Also new to the range is a sophisticated new four-speed automatic Peugeot has tagged "Porsche Tiptronic System", which has several modes of operation, including a sequential 'manual' mode.
The new engine and gearbox are available in either Sport or SE trim levels, with prices as follows:
Three-door models:
- Peugeot 207 Sport 1.6 16v 120: £11,795
- Peugeot 207 Sport 1.6 16v 120 Automatic: £12,795
Five-door models:
- Peugeot 207 Sport 1.6 16v 120: £12,395
- Peugeot 207 Sport 1.6 16v 120 Automatic: £13,395
- Peugeot 207 SE 1.6 16v 120: £12,595
- Peugeot 207 SE 1.6 16v 120 Automatic: £13,595
Shane O' Donoghue - 23 Jan 2007