Peugeot 1007: 2 Engine Choices, Sliding Doors, Urban Ease

The Peugeot 1007, produced from 2005 to 2009, emerged as a daring experiment in urban mobility. Drawing inspiration from the Sesame concept unveiled at the 2002 Paris Motor Show, this compact hatchback challenged conventional supermini designs with its signature sliding doors and highly adaptable interior. Shorter than the Peugeot 206 yet offering superior space efficiency, the 1007 aimed to conquer tight city streets while providing MPV-like flexibility in a city car package.

Design and Dimensions: Compact Yet Spacious

Measuring just 3,731mm in length and 1,686mm in width, the Peugeot 1007 was engineered for effortless maneuvering in crowded urban environments. Its narrow stance made parking a breeze, outperforming rivals like the MINI by nearly a foot in width, and it was only slightly longer than a Ford Ka. The curved door pillars facilitated easy rear access without needing to tilt front seats forward, a thoughtful detail for slim passengers.

The exterior boasted a distinctive, elevated stance blending supermini agility with crossover height, giving it a unique silhouette. Peugeot positioned it as a four-seater, prioritizing comfort over cramming in a fifth occupant, which owners appreciated for maintaining generous legroom and headspace front and rear. This decision enhanced the sense of roominess, making it feel larger than its footprint suggested.

Interior Innovation: Modularity Redefined

Inside, the 1007’s cabin was a showcase of Peugeot’s ingenuity. The two independent rear seats could slide fore and aft, fold flat, or tumble forward via simple levers, transforming boot capacity from 178 to 364 liters seamlessly. This modularity allowed owners to prioritize passenger space or luggage as needed, a rarity in the supermini segment.

The front passenger seat folded into a makeshift desk complete with securing straps, ideal for urban workers jotting notes or using a laptop on the go. Materials felt premium for the class, with soft seats that absorbed road imperfections effectively, contributing to a comfortable ride even over potholes or motorway bumps. Optional big-car luxuries like color GPS navigation and integrated GSM phones added a touch of sophistication.

• Key Interior Features:
• Sliding rear seats for adjustable space
• Fold-flat front passenger seat as a workspace
• Curved pillars for improved rear entry
• Automatic door locking for security
• Soft, supportive seating

Doors That Slide: The Game-Changer

The most talked-about feature was undoubtedly the powered sliding doors, replacing traditional hinges to enable access in the tightest of spaces. No more door dings in packed car parks or struggling sideways into rear seats—these panels glided open effortlessly, making the 1007 a true urban warrior. Peugeot marketed this as a solution for city parking woes, and while innovative, it came at the cost of added weight from the mechanisms.

Entry and exit were particularly family-friendly, with wide apertures suiting child seats or buggies. However, the electric operation could be slower than manual doors, and in cold weather, they occasionally froze, though this was manageable with basic maintenance.

Engines and Performance: Torque Over Speed

Power came from a choice of petrol and diesel units, with the 1.6 HDi diesel standing out for its torquey pull, making it the pick for relaxed driving. Petrol options, like the 1.4-liter, felt underpowered due to the car’s 1,050kg kerb weight, resulting in sluggish acceleration—tectonic plates moved faster, as one critic quipped. Expect 0-60mph in around 13-15 seconds for base models, improving to under 12 with the diesel.

Handling was a highlight: sharp steering, ample front grip, and minimal body roll belied its short wheelbase and height. Stability control was standard, enhancing safety, and the ride quality impressed over rough surfaces, with suspension soaking up bumps without transmitting harshness to the cabin. The high-mounted gear lever felt flimsy and notchy, paired with a light clutch of spongy bite, but shifts were manageable in traffic.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

High weight impacted efficiency, with real-world MPG hovering around 35-36mpg, below class leaders. Diesels fared better thanks to torque, but frequent gear changes hurt economy in stop-start traffic. Long service intervals and low insurance groups (typically 6-10) kept costs down. Five-star Euro NCAP rating made it one of the safest small cars, with robust crash protection.

Used prices plummeted post-launch; list prices were steep, leading to 33% discounts within two years. Today, well-maintained examples are bargains under £2,000, though rarity means hunting is required.

Pros and Cons: What Owners Say

Owners praise the practicality, ride comfort, and originality. It’s “the king of the street in town,” absorbing urban imperfections superbly. Critics note the performance lag outside the 1.6 diesel, vague handling at speed, and poor sales—only 8,000 UK units versus projected 17,000 annually, axed after three years.

• Pros: Innovative doors and seating, easy parking, safe, comfortable ride
• Cons: Heavy/slow (except diesel), average MPG, dated auto gearbox option

Market Position and Rivals

The 1007 stood alone with its two-door, four-seat MPV vibe. The Renault Modus offered five doors and similar size, while the Honda Jazz excelled in practicality without gimmicks. It appealed to buyers seeking distinctiveness over outright value.

Buying Advice for Used Peugeot 1007

Seek low-mileage diesels with full service history; check sliding mechanisms and rust on sills. Budget £1,000-£3,000 for good examples. It’s rewarding for enthusiasts valuing quirkiness over speed.

FAQs

Is the Peugeot 1007 reliable?

Generally solid, with Peugeot’s 1.6 HDi proving durable. Watch for door motor issues and timing belts.

What is the boot space like?

178-364 liters, adjustable via sliding seats—highly versatile for a city car.

Are sliding doors practical?

Yes for tight spaces, but heavy and power-dependent; manual override helps.

Best engine choice?

1.6 HDi for torque and economy; avoid base petrols unless budget-limited.

Worth buying used today?

For uniqueness and low cost, yes—perfect urban runabout with character.