PEUGEOT 207 CC test

Intro: A guaranteed success

Seven years after Peugeot introduced the 206 CC today it is the turn of the 207 CC to see the light of day.

Esthetique: Smart

One of the major changes resides in the convertible top that is no longer manufactured by Heuliez but rather at Peugeot’s factory in Velizy. The tiny coupe has also grown up. It is longer and wider, thus more comfortable and even the boot has more storage capacity and these strong points should make the 207CC a best seller. Remember if you will, more than 360 000 examples of the 206 CC have been sold world-wide and it doesn’t appear that Peugeot is about to stop there.

The 207CC has a more compact and more virile silhouette than its predecessor. It has adopted the front end of the sedan as we can see with the headlights, which are mounted quite high on the wheel wells. While the rear end is, in our opinion, the best looking on the market. And depending on which package you opt for it can be had with either 16 or 17-inch wheels.

The interior has been given a few retouches without being subjected to a major overhaul. The 207CC, like the 407 Coupe for example, can be had with an all leather interior. The finish quality is correct, as are the materials chosen, but we’ll have to see how it all holds up with time. The 207CC is thus a 2+2, and while adults can sit comfortably in the rear we however would suggest this for only short distances. And the driving position is classic for a coupe, while the overall ambiance aboard is pleasant.

Motorization: Turbo

The 207 CC is powered by the famous 1.6-litre turbo, which was born from the PSA-BMW alliance. The four-cylinder engine develops 150 brake horsepower and is coupled with a five-speed manual gearbox, but it would be nice to have a sixth.

At the end of the summer holiday period the 207CC can also be had with a 110 brake horsepower 1.6-litre Hdi. As always, rigidity is a strong point at Peugeot and when it comes to safety this convertible is stronger thanks in large part to the new rollover bar.

On the road: Pleasant

It is thus with great pleasure to get behind the wheel of this convertible...even though very soon it becomes clear that the anti-wind netting, for an additional price, is a must. Beyond that, you are in a Peugeot, which means there’s nothing to criticise when it comes to road handling.

The mix of comfort and suspension stiffness makes for a well-balanced ride. However, the 144 kilograms that the 207 gained in its conversion is omnipresent, and the total weight comes in at a hefty 1400 kilos.

The Peugeot 207CC doesn’t have any real faults and has an abundance of qualities. Its aggressive and racy allure will win many over as will its bullet proof reputation. The competition, most notably Opel’s Tigra Twintop and the Nissan Micra CC, will have a tough time in keeping up, sales wise. The cherry on the cake with this CC is that you can now bring the top down while moving.