Peugeot 407 Coupe Road Test

Peugeot 407 Coupe 2.7 GT

The acceleration isn’t breathtaking but it is exhilarating. The tiptronic automatic transmission is non-optional with this engine but has, apart from the normal auto and sequential functions, a ‘snowflake’ button for icy conditions and an ‘S’ button. S stands for Sport and lives up to its label. During the test week, it seemed that no matter where the needle was within the rev range, the car still accelerated easily and efficiently and that’s good for safe overtaking at motorway speeds. It is even better in S mode, when the car gives the impression of taking a deep breath before lifting its skirts. In normal mode, it was more of a sigh.

However, there is a penalty for pressing the ‘S’ button and that is that there isn’t a chance of getting anywhere near the official fuel consumption figures of 23.7mpg, 43.4mpg and 33.2mpg for the urban, extra-urban and combined respectively.

On country lanes and twisting roads the car goes where you point it in a very positive manner and the benefit of the hidden electronics such as ESP, ASR (Traction Control) and DSC or Dynamic Stability Control, is evident. However, low profile tyres and stiff suspension means that every bump is felt and that can become tiresome after a while.

On the centre console there is a button that changes the suspension settings between Sport mode and Normal. As you would expect, in Sport the suspension is stiffened even more for better control. I have to say that even though it’s fun it is harsh and on uneven surfaces, there is a distinct possibility of losing your fillings.

In automatic mode, wheel-travel sensors in each wheel have nine possible settings with selections taking place every 2.5 milliseconds in keeping with the changes to road conditions and driving style.

Having lived with the 407 Coupe for a week, I think that Peugeot will get its wish and more women will be enticed into buying this fun, stylish and practical coupe. Men are back? Not necessarily.

Peugeot 407 Coupe