Review
The 207 has a tough act to follow - the 206 that it replaces was one of the most successful superminis of recent years. Bigger and better than its predecessor, the 207 combines strong design with excellent practicality.
The handsome styling incorporates design cues from both the 206 and 307, with a broad radiator grille and swept back headlamps. Inside, decent plastics and well-placed switchgear give the cabin an sensation of quality, with the chrome-ringed instrument dials having a classy look to them. It's impressively spacious, too - with the 206's ache-inducing driving position banished and plenty of adjustment for both seat and steering wheel. Impressive boot space underlines the 207's claim to be the grown-up supermini, with one of the biggest luggage compartments in the segment.
It's pretty good to drive, too. A long wheelbase means that it's able to effectively smooth out progress over lumpy, bumpy roads, with the handling combining nimbleness and adjustability. The new electrical power steering system is particularly impressive, serving up just enough feel for keen drivers while remaining nice and light around town and when parking.
207 buyers will be able to choose between three petrol and three diesel engines from launch, with other powerplants coming later. The entry-level 1.4 litre 8 valve engine musters a healthy 75 bhp, but the more powerful 1.4 litre 16 valve (with 90 bhp) is the most fun to use, revving enthusiastically and offering keen mid-range response. The more powerful 1.6 litre motor makes more noise but feels barely quicker. Many buyers will opt for one of the three refined HDI turbodiesels, although the more powerful 110 bhp 1.6 HDi turbodiesel misses the shove we'd expect.
Peugeot's pricing is cheek by jowl alongside its rivals, so the extra space the 207 offers looks good value next to most competitors and it should hold its value as well as the 206 did.