22/06/2019
When considering a used Peugeot 407 in the UK, one of the most common queries that surfaces revolves around its engine options, specifically, the availability of petrol variants. While the diesel engine has undeniably dominated the 407's lifecycle in the British market, the answer isn't a straightforward 'no'. However, delving deeper reveals a story of subtle evolution, changing market dynamics, and a driving experience that often goes uncredited. This article aims to shed light on the 407's petrol offerings, explore its often-overlooked 'facelift', and provide a comprehensive look at what makes this Peugeot saloon a surprisingly capable, albeit misunderstood, contender on UK roads.
The Elusive Petrol 407: A Rare Sight in the UK
It's a well-known fact among automotive enthusiasts and former owners that Peugeot, particularly in the UK, has historically leaned heavily into diesel powertrains for its larger models. The 407 is no exception to this rule. While technically, petrol versions of the 407 were indeed sold, they were, and remain, a rare sight on British roads. The vast majority of 407s imported and sold within the United Kingdom were equipped with various HDI diesel engines, which offered superior fuel economy and lower emissions – crucial factors for the fleet market that absorbed a significant portion of 407 sales.
For those who 'insisted on filling up at the green pump', Peugeot did, at one point, offer a 2.0-litre 'Bioflex' variant. This particular model was designed to run on E85 bioethanol, a fuel type that, despite its greener credentials, suffered from almost non-existent availability across the UK. The scarcity of E85 filling stations meant that purchasing a Bioflex model was, for most, an impractical choice, effectively rendering these petrol variants a niche curiosity rather than a mainstream option. Consequently, the secondhand market for petrol 407s is incredibly limited, making them difficult to find for prospective buyers. This strong diesel bias means that anyone seeking a 407 will almost certainly encounter an HDI model, complete with the particulate filters that became standard across the diesel range, further cementing their environmental appeal at the time.
The 'Subtle' Facelift: A Blink-and-You-Miss-It Evolution
Peugeot has a long-standing reputation for its conservative approach to mid-life model refreshes. Unlike some manufacturers who introduce radical changes to breathe new life into an aging model line, Peugeot’s 'facelifts' are typically understated, often requiring a keen eye to spot the differences. The revised 407, introduced around 2008, perfectly embodies this philosophy. If you were expecting a revolutionary overhaul, you'd be sorely disappointed.
The most noticeable exterior modifications included new bumper designs, with the rear bumper incorporating a diffuser-style element reminiscent of the Peugeot 308. All trim levels now benefited from the colour-coding previously reserved for the range-topping V6 models, providing a slightly more cohesive and premium look across the board. Even the tail lights underwent a subtle redesign, though for many, these changes were barely perceptible. Further updates included the much-needed addition of front parking sensors, a welcome feature given the 407’s famously generous front overhang, which could make maneuvering in tight spaces a challenge. The introduction of 18-inch wheels, initially only available on the V6, extended to models like the 2.2 HDI, unfortunately impacting the ride quality on these variants. New exterior paint colours were added to the palette, and even the front grille saw a minor revision – a pragmatic change, it seems, as earlier versions allowed a clear view of the cooling fans, an aesthetic choice that evidently didn't resonate with all consumers. Inside the cabin, the evolution was equally restrained. While some might have hoped for a complete redesign to address the 407’s somewhat dated and 'button-laden' dashboard, the changes were limited to new upholstery options and the introduction of 'piano black' trim accents, aiming to inject a touch of modernity into an otherwise familiar layout. In essence, the 407 facelift was less about a dramatic transformation and more about a gentle refinement, acknowledging minor criticisms and bringing subtle aesthetic enhancements without altering the core identity of the vehicle.
A Car Out of Time? The 407's UK Market Standing
The Peugeot 407 emerged at a time when the automotive landscape in the UK was undergoing significant shifts. Gone were the glory days when its predecessors, the 405 and 406, formed the backbone of Peugeot’s sales figures, dominating the mid-size saloon and estate segments. By the time of the 407’s facelift, its market position had become increasingly precarious. A staggering ninety percent of 407 registrations in the UK were attributed to fleet sales, indicating a strong reliance on corporate purchases rather than private buyers. The broader market trend saw a significant move away from traditional saloons like the 407. Private consumers were increasingly 'downsizing' to smaller, more economical vehicles, or, conversely, opting for German premium marques such as BMW and Audi, which offered perceived higher status and refined driving experiences. Furthermore, the burgeoning popularity of cooler SUVs, versatile MPVs, and stylish cabriolets presented compelling alternatives, drawing buyers away from the conventional saloon format. This shift in consumer preference severely impacted the 407’s sales performance. For instance, in 2008, Peugeot managed to sell barely 2,400 units of the 407 in the UK. This relatively low sales volume meant that the 407 became a 'small fry' in Peugeot's overall portfolio, leading to a limited investment in its mid-life refresh. The brand's focus had clearly shifted, and the 407, despite its inherent qualities, found itself struggling to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving market.
Under the Bonnet: Mechanical Tweaks and Eco Credentials
While the visual changes to the 407 were minimal, Peugeot did implement some noteworthy mechanical refinements, particularly concerning its diesel engine lineup, underscoring their commitment to efficiency and emissions standards. A significant update was the introduction of a Euro V emissions-compliant diesel engine, which arrived shortly after the facelift. The popular 2.0 HDI unit received crucial software tweaks, boosting its power output to a respectable 140bhp. This enhancement not only provided a welcome increase in performance but also contributed to improved fuel economy and a reduction in both emissions and engine noise, making for a more refined driving experience. Peugeot also highlighted the environmental performance of its best-selling 1.6 HDI 110 engine. This particular variant boasted impressive figures, emitting just 140g/km of CO2 and achieving an average fuel consumption of 53.3mpg. Peugeot was keen to point out that these figures applied across all trim levels of the 1.6 HDI, not just a specially configured 'eco' model, suggesting a consistent level of efficiency throughout the range. This contrasted favourably with rivals like the Volkswagen Passat Bluemotion, which offered only marginally better figures, often requiring specific, limited trims. As previously mentioned, the scarcity of petrol 407s meant that the vast majority of vehicles sold were diesels, and all these diesel models were equipped with particulate filters, designed to capture and remove harmful soot particles from the exhaust gases, further enhancing their environmental profile and complying with increasingly stringent regulations. These mechanical updates, though less flashy than a full design overhaul, were crucial in keeping the 407 competitive in terms of performance and environmental compliance.
Despite its understated appearance and challenging market position, the Peugeot 407 possesses a surprising driving prowess that often goes unrecognised. This car, particularly in its more common diesel guises, delivers a driving experience that genuinely stands out in its class. One of its key strengths lies in its sophisticated suspension setup: a rare all-round double-wishbone suspension system, extensively utilising lightweight aluminium components. This advanced design, coupled with a 'trick' front axle, was specifically engineered to effectively mitigate understeer and significantly enhance steering precision. The result is a vehicle that feels remarkably agile and responsive, particularly when navigating winding roads.
We had the opportunity to test the 1.6 HDI, and while its power delivery was undeniably 'deathly slow' in certain situations, its agility and eye-watering front-end grip were truly impressive. The car exhibited excellent poise and remarkably low levels of bump steer, which imbued it with a genuinely sporty feel when driven with enthusiasm. It might not have been a drag-strip king, but its chassis balance and handling characteristics were undeniably engaging. In contrast, the 2.7 V6 variant, powered by the Jag-derived engine also found in the new XF and Citroën C6, offered a different, and arguably less satisfying, experience. While the engine itself was powerful, there was a noticeable delay after pressing the throttle from a standstill, which could be disconcerting at junctions. More significantly, the 'mushy' feel of its electronic dampers proved to be a major disappointment. Opting for the V6 model meant sacrificing the litheness and crisp steering response that characterised the standard 407. Any sense of direct feedback from the road seemed to diminish, replaced by a flatter ride that, paradoxically, offered little in the way of comfort when encountering road imperfections. The larger wheels fitted to the V6 models exacerbated this issue, creating a 'thudding staccato soundtrack' over corrugations, detracting significantly from the overall ride quality. Ultimately, for the keen driver, the standard 407 models, particularly with the more balanced diesel engines, offered a far more rewarding and engaging experience, highlighting the engineering excellence beneath its modest exterior.
Peugeot 407 vs. The Competition: A Tough Fight
In the fiercely competitive mid-size saloon segment, the Peugeot 407 faced formidable adversaries. While it excelled in terms of driving dynamics, particularly its chassis and steering feel, it was a constant battle to rank it ahead of established titans like the excellent Ford Mondeo and the ever-popular Volkswagen Passat. These rivals offered a blend of practicality, perceived reliability, and brand appeal that often overshadowed the 407's nuanced strengths. Furthermore, the market was anticipating the arrival of new contenders, such as the Vauxhall Insignia, which promised modern design and updated technology, posing an even greater threat to the 407's already dwindling market share. The reality was that, for many businesses and private buyers, spending money on a 'same-again' Peugeot, especially one that even Peugeot itself seemed to be losing interest in, became a difficult proposition. The allure of a 'bog-standard' BMW 3-series or an Audi A4, even at a higher price point, was often too strong to resist. These German premium brands offered a status symbol and a driving experience that, while perhaps not always superior in terms of pure chassis dynamics to the 407, certainly commanded more respect and brand loyalty. This preference, though understandable from a branding perspective, was arguably a shame. For those willing to look beyond the badge and the subtle updates, the Peugeot 407 truly offered 'more than meets the eye', possessing a depth of engineering and a driving character that belied its struggling sales figures and modest facelift.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the Peugeot 407 a good car to buy in the used market?
A: The Peugeot 407 is often overlooked but can be a surprisingly good used car, especially for those who appreciate strong driving dynamics. Its sophisticated chassis and engaging steering make it enjoyable on the road. However, its interior can feel dated compared to rivals, and reliability can be a concern with older models, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is advised. The vast majority of models available are diesels, which are generally robust but require attention to particulate filters.
Q: Are petrol Peugeot 407s common in the UK?
A: No, petrol Peugeot 407s are extremely rare in the UK. The market was heavily dominated by diesel variants, particularly the HDI engines, due to their fuel economy and appeal to fleet buyers. While a 2.0-litre 'Bioflex' petrol model was offered, its reliance on E85 bioethanol, a fuel almost impossible to find in the UK, made it an impractical choice for most buyers.
Q: What were the main changes in the 407 facelift?
A: The 407's facelift was very subtle. Key changes included revised front and rear bumpers (with a 308-style rear diffuser), updated tail lights, colour-coding across all models (previously V6 only), the addition of much-needed front parking sensors, and a redesigned front grille. Inside, updates were limited to new upholstery options and 'piano black' dash trim. It was a refinement rather than a revolution.
Q: Why did the Peugeot 407's sales decline in the UK?
A: The 407 faced stiff competition from established rivals like the Ford Mondeo and VW Passat, and emerging premium brands. Its sales were heavily reliant on fleet purchases (around 90%). Private buyers increasingly opted for smaller cars, German premium marques, or popular SUVs/MPVs, leading to a significant drop in sales volume and a diminished market presence for the traditional saloon.
Q: Is the Peugeot 407 comfortable for long journeys?
A: The 407's advanced suspension, particularly in standard models (avoiding the V6 with large wheels), generally provides a composed and comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections well. The excellent chassis contributes to stability and poise on motorways. However, some might find the interior ergonomics and seat comfort less refined than its premium competitors on very long trips. Engine noise on some diesel variants can also be a factor, though the revised 2.0 HDI improved this.
In conclusion, the Peugeot 407 is a car that, despite its rather uneventful facelift and challenging market position, holds a unique appeal for those who value driving dynamics. While the question of petrol versions is largely answered by their extreme rarity in the UK, the widespread availability of efficient and capable HDI diesel models means there's still plenty to explore. Its sophisticated chassis, with its double-wishbone suspension and clever front axle, truly sets it apart, offering an engaging and precise driving experience that rivals often struggled to match. However, its dated interior, lack of significant updates, and the overwhelming preference for German premium brands or more fashionable vehicle types ultimately hampered its commercial success. Yet, for the discerning driver willing to look past its perceived shortcomings and embrace its hidden strengths, the 407 remains a car that truly offers 'more than meets the eye'. It’s a testament to Peugeot’s engineering capability, even if the market didn’t always fully appreciate its quiet brilliance.
If you want to read more articles similar to Peugeot 407: Petrol Models & UK Market Insights, you can visit the Cars category.