Peugeot has added a low emission model to the 207 range. The Economique emits just 99g of CO2 per kilometre, which mean it qualifies for £0 Vehicle Excise Duty. With prices starting at £12,995, it will go on sale in October.
Under the bonnet is Peugeot's 90bhp HDi diesel with new engine management software and an updated exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. Drive goes through a five-speed manual gearbox with a higher final drive ratio.
To encourage economical driving a Gear Shift Indicator (GSI) is incorporated into the instrument cluster. Taking account of vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position, engine temperature and revs it shows a rising vertical arrow as soon as it is time to change up a gear. The arrow remains visible until the driver selects a more appropriate ratio.
Body modifications reduce the 207's drag coefficient from 0.30 to 0.27. The changes include a lower bumper extension, side extensions, an under-tray, a rear spoiler and aerodynamic wheel trims. The trims cover 15-inch steel wheels wrapped in Michelin "Very Low Rolling Resistance" tyres.
The result is combined cycle fuel economy of 74.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 99g/km. Peugeot claims that the 207 Economique will accelerate from 0-62mph in 11.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 117mph. The figures suggest that the Economique uses less fuel and is slightly faster than the 207 S powered by the same HDi engine.
With prices starting at £12,995, the three-door Economique also undercuts the 90bhp 207 S by £345. Additionally, Peugeot offers a better equipped Economique '+' trim level, with air-conditioning, trip computer and electrically operated heated door mirrors as standard. The "+" trim costs £900 while a five-door model is offered at a £600 premium.
The 207 Economique will go on sale in the UK in October.
John Lambert - 21 Jul 2009
