Peugeot 807 Review
Published: 3rd January 2005
Peugeot 807
How It Drove - Performance
The Peugeot 807GLX 2.0 HDi automatic is powered by a 1997 cc, four-cylinder, 16-valve engine with twin overhead camshafts which develops 109 bhp at 4000 rpm enabling the 807 to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 15.1 seconds and continue to a top speed of 104 mph. The engine is both quiet and refined and once or twice we even forgot it was a diesel - full marks to Peugeot.
At 15.1 seconds the 0-62 mph sprint is not quick but it is perfectly adequate and once up to speed it is relatively well paced keeping up with the flow of traffic especially on the Motorway where it cruises well. The 2.2 litre, 130 bhp diesel engine offers more punch and in our opinion would be a better choice.
The 807 sits on the same 2823mm wheelbase as the 806 but is 273mm longer at 4727mm thanks to extensions in both the front and rear overhangs, and is 16mm wider and 38mm taller. To ensure the larger dimensions do not result in excess weight that would affect economy and driveability, the 807's roof is made of riveted aluminium plate bonded to the body frame. While the front and rear wings and tailgate are made from impregnated and compressed composite material. The GLX 2.0 litre HDi automatic's combined economy figure is an impressive 35.3 mpg and it produces 189 g/km of carbon dioxide.
The 4-Speed 'Tiptronic' auto-adaptive automatic gearbox is excellent and perfectly suited to the Peugeot 807. When driving a vehicle of large proportions especially a diesel version the last thing you want to be doing is changing gear manually. The automatic gearbox overcomes the dilemma of whether to opt for a manual or automatic by offering two systems in one and can be operated in either fully automatic mode or manually by the driver in sequential mode. Using the 'Porsche tiptronic control' you simply select the sequential mode and push the gear lever forward to change up and backwards to change down - it really is that simple. When driven in 'automatic mode' the transmission has the ability to learn and adapt to the individual's driving style and road conditions.
How It Drove - Ride/Handling
The Peugeot 807's suspension has been engineered to ensure a smooth, level and quiet ride even with a full complement of passengers or luggage. The ride is good and and the 807 absorbs potholes and cushions uneven road surfaces well. The power-assisted steering offers variable assistance according to engine speed and is well-weighted and offers a remarkable level of feedback for a large MPV as well as an excellent turning circle.
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