miercuri, 22 iunie 2011

Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 VTI GT (2011)


The Peugeot 207 CC is the survivor of the supermini hardtop convertible class. Whilst the Daihatsu Copen, Nissan Micra C+C and Vauxhall Tigra have left new car price lists, the 207 has continued in production, selling almost 148,000 units worldwide between 2007 and 2010.


In the meantime the funsize convertible market has welcomed a pair of retro rivals (the Mini Convertible and the Fiat 500C) and the flip-top Renault Wind. Is the 207 CC still a viable competitor in the small convertible class? Read on for our first drive review of the Peugeot 207 CC to find out...
The 207 CC comes in Sport or GT trim levels, with the choice of three engines. A 120bhp 1.6-litre four cylinder petrol, a 150bhp turbocharged version of the petrol engine, or a 110bhp 1.6-litre turbodiesel. Our car matched the basic engine in five-speed manual form (a four-speed automatic is optional) with upscale GT trim. That meant 17-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, leather-covered wheel rim and shift knob, folding mirrors and parking sensors as standard on the 207 CC GT.


With the 120bhp non-turbo 1.6-litre petrol engine it's fair to say the 207 CC lacked vigour. A Mini Cooper Convertible with similar powerplant carries around 200kg less weight and gets up to speed with greater urgency. It's best to ignore the sporty pretence of those drilled aluminium pedals and white-faced dials, relax and cruise.
Lightness pervades the Peugeot's steering, shift and pedals but the car handles accurately and has no shortage of roadholding on its 17-inch wheels and tyres. It rides well and beyond some mild wind-whistle around the frameless side windows roof-up, the main noise issue comes from a lack of a sixth gear for motorway work. There is little noticable deterioration in the car's handling ability while driving in open-air mode.





  • How much? £18,045.
  • Engine: 1598cc 16v four-cylinder, 120bhp @ 6000rpm, 120lb ft @ 4250rpm.
  • Transmission: Five-speed manual, front-wheel drive.
  • Performance: 10.7 sec 0-62, 124mph, 43.5 mpg, 150g/km.

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