Peugeot 107: 5 Expert Used Buying Tips For City Drivers

The Peugeot 107 stands out as a pint-sized powerhouse designed specifically for the hustle of city streets. This compact hatchback combines playful styling with practical features, making it an enduring favorite among first-time drivers, urban commuters, and budget-conscious buyers. Born from a unique collaboration between PSA Group (Peugeot and Citroën) and Toyota, the 107 shares its underpinnings with the Citroën C1 and Toyota Aygo, ensuring shared reliability and efficiency.

Origins and Collaborative Engineering

Launched in the mid-2000s, the Peugeot 107 emerged from a strategic partnership where vehicles were assembled at a single Czech factory. This joint venture allowed for cost-effective production while blending French flair with Japanese precision. The result is a car weighing around 790kg, with a wheel-at-each-corner layout that maximizes stability and maneuverability. Over its production run through 2014, the 107 underwent facelifts that refined its looks, keeping it fresh despite its age.

Its dinky dimensions—under 3.5 meters long—prioritize urban agility without sacrificing a five-door option for practicality. Distinctive touches like the blacked-out rear glazing add a cheeky character, especially in lighter paint shades.

Exterior Design: Compact Yet Expressive

Don’t let its small size fool you; the Peugeot 107 boasts a funky, youthful aesthetic. The front grille smiles broadly, complemented by compact headlights that give it a perpetual grin. Narrow tyres and a low stance contribute to its go-kart-like stance, promising fun on the road.

Available in three- or five-door configurations, it appeals to young drivers needing versatility. Plastic bumpers are resilient against urban scrapes, a boon for parking in tight spots. While dated by modern standards, its design remains endearing and functional.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Step inside, and the cabin greets you with a retro vibe. Chunky dashboard controls and a cylindrical heater panel that glows orange at night create a fun, solid feel. Materials are hardwearing plastics—scratchy but durable—paired with exposed metal accents that hold up well over time.

Space is tight for adults in the rear, but ample for shopping or kids. The boot swallows everyday essentials, and electric front windows, central locking, and a CD player come standard on most trims. Higher specs like the Sportium or Verve add flair without excess.

Powertrain: Simple, Efficient, and Sprightly

Power comes from a single Toyota-sourced 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine delivering 68bhp. Acceleration to 62mph takes 14.2 seconds, modest but peppy in town. Top speed hits 100mph, sufficient for most needs.

Fuel economy shines: urban 52-55mpg, extra-urban up to 74mpg, combined around 62-65mpg. CO2 emissions at 103g/km keep road tax low. The engine’s thrummy note is characterful, enhancing the lively drive.

Driving Dynamics: Go-Kart Fun Meets Urban Ease

The 107 thrives in cities, nipping through traffic with electric power steering that’s light yet precise. Its responsive chassis delivers neutral handling on twisty roads, minimal body roll, and surprising grip from skinny tyres.

Country lanes feel like a playground—agile and giggle-inducing, reminiscent of the original Mini. Ride quality is smooth for its size, absorbing bumps competently. The go-kart feel makes every journey engaging.

Trims and Pricing: Value for Money

Base models start equipped with airbags, remote locking, and power steering. Special editions like Sportium or Verve offer extras at accessible prices—around £7,195 to £10,045 new. Used examples remain bargains, often under £5,000, with low running costs.

• Urban: Basic trim with essentials for city use.
• Sportium: Adds style and minor upgrades.
• Verve: Enhanced features for spirited drives.

Safety and Reliability: Tougher Than It Looks

Safety features include four airbags and ABS on later models. Its sturdy build, bolstered by Toyota influences, withstands daily knocks. Quality improved post-facelifts, with solid fixtures. Owners praise its fault-free record. Check service history and bodywork when buying used.

Running Costs and Ownership Experience

Low insurance groups, cheap parts, and stellar economy make it economical. Servicing is straightforward due to shared components with Aygo/C1. Fuel savings and minimal tax appeal to young drivers.

Owners love its smile-inducing fun and reliability. Minor gripes include rear space and engine drone, but these pale against positives.

Peugeot 107 vs Rivals

In the city car class, the 107 competes with Fiat 500, Volkswagen Up, and its siblings. It edges on fun factor and costs.

Buying Used: Top Tips

• Seek full service history for peace of mind.
• Inspect bumpers and alloys for kerb rash.
• Test engine for smooth three-cylinder purr.
• Opt for post-2012 facelifts for refinements.
• Budget £500-£5,000 depending on mileage.

FAQs

Is the Peugeot 107 reliable?

Yes, its Toyota engineering ensures strong reliability, with few reported faults.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Expect 62mpg combined, ideal for commuters.

Suitable for tall drivers?

Front space suits most, but rear is best for shorter passengers.

Any common issues?

Rare, but check clutch wear on high-mileage cars.

Best for motorway?

Great in town; stable but buzzy at speed.

Final Verdict

The Peugeot 107 delivers unbeatable urban fun, efficiency, and value. Its cheeky charm and low costs make it a smart used buy today.