Peugeot 407 Review: Complete Used Buying Guide

The Peugeot 407, produced from 2004 to 2011, emerged as a bold challenger in the executive car segment, blending French flair with practical performance. Replacing the successful 406, it targeted business users and private buyers seeking refinement over outright sportiness. Available as a saloon, sleek coupe, and versatile SW estate, the 407 stood out with its dramatic styling and focus on comfort.

Eye-Catching Exterior Design

The 407’s front end grabs attention with its large, aggressive grille and elongated bonnet, a deliberate design choice to enhance pedestrian safety and crash energy absorption. This protruding nose creates a distinctive profile, setting it apart from more conservative rivals like the Ford Mondeo or Honda Accord. The steeply raked windscreen and fluid lines give it a dynamic, coupe-like appearance, especially in the SW estate variant with its sloping rear pillar.

Build quality impressed reviewers, with durable paint and trim that aged gracefully even after high mileage. The coupe version amplified the style with frameless doors and a sportier stance, appealing to those wanting something unique. While some criticized the front overhang for parking challenges, it contributed to the car’s five-star ANCAP/Euro NCAP safety rating by providing a deformable structure.

Luxurious and Practical Interior

Step inside the 407, and you’re greeted by a high-quality cabin that punches above its price class. Soft-touch materials, solid construction, and thoughtful details like auto-folding mirrors and LED-illuminated gauges create a premium feel. Seats are a highlight—supportive, comfortable for long drives, with options for leather and heating in higher trims.

Space is generous upfront, though rear passengers in the saloon and coupe face some claustrophobia from the high waistline and limited headroom. The SW estate remedies this with a larger boot and folding rear seats featuring a ski hatch for versatility. Standard kit on mid-spec models included climate control, cruise control, and auto lights/wipers, making it fleet-friendly.

This table summarizes cargo and passenger capacity, highlighting the SW’s practicality for families or business hauls.

Engine Range and Performance

Diesel engines dominated sales, with 75% of 407s fitted with them for their torque and economy. The 2.0 HDi (100kW/320Nm) in six-speed auto form propelled the 1732kg saloon briskly, achieving 0-100km/h in under 10 seconds and cruising effortlessly at highway speeds. Higher-output 2.2 (173PS) and 3.0 V6 diesels offered more punch for overtaking.

• 2.0 HDi: Efficient for city/mixed driving, real-world 7-8L/100km combined.
• 2.2 HDi: Excellent balance of power and refinement, ideal for motorways.
• Petrol Options: 2.0/2.2/3.0 V6 for smoother urban runs, thirstier at 10+L/100km.

Handling is composed, with sharp steering and a compliant ride that soaks up bumps better than sportier foes. It’s no BMW 3 Series, but stable at speed with sophisticated traction control preserving tire life.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Diesels shone here: the 407 Coupe HDi averaged 46mpg (around 6.1L/100km) in mixed conditions, with gentle driving pushing over 50mpg. City tests hit 13L/100km, close to claimed 10L, while combined figures beat many rivals. Low insurance groups (18-27) and 93% of official MPG in real-world use kept costs down.

Insurance is affordable, and parts availability remains good for a used buy. Fleet popularity (70% of sales) ensured robust resale values initially, though reliability niggles like auto gearbox issues or oil leaks affect long-term ownership.

Safety and Reliability Insights

Safety is a strong suit: eight airbags (including curtain and knee on top models), ESP, ABS, and EBD standard across the board. The front-end design aided five-star adult protection and pedestrian scores. Brakes are strong, halting the heavy body confidently.

Reliability mixed—praised for durable interiors and mechanics from proven units, but some report engine misfires, leaks, and pricey auto fixes. Opt for well-serviced examples with full history; avoid neglected high-milers. Build quality deters abuse, attracting careful owners.

Driving Experience Breakdown

On twisty roads, the 407 prioritizes comfort over agility, with body roll but planted grip. Motorway manners excel: quiet cabin, low wind/road noise, and effortless high-speed stability. The ride smooths imperfections, and brakes inspire confidence.

Coupe drivers note its pleasant, non-fatiguing nature, while estates handle loads without compromise. It’s a cruiser at heart, perfect for executives clocking miles.

Market Position and Rivals

Priced competitively (e.g., $46k AUD for ST HDi), it vied with Mondeo, Accord Euro, and Vectra. Unique looks and French refinement won fans, though it lacked the dynamic edge of Germans. Today, used 407s offer value for style seekers.

Buying Advice for Used Peugeot 407

Target 2007+ models with service history. Check for leaks, gearbox smoothness, and suspension wear. Diesels suit high-mileage; test drive for refined idle. Budget $5k-$15k depending on spec/mileage. SW estates are bargains for space.

• Pros: Stylish, comfortable, efficient diesels, safe.
• Cons: Reliability quirks, rear space in coupe/saloon, parking front overhang.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Peugeot 407 reliable?

Generally solid with proper maintenance, but watch for diesel issues and auto transmissions. Interiors endure well.

What’s the best engine for the 407?

The 2.0/2.2 HDi for efficiency and torque; avoid if low-mileage urban only.

How safe is the 407?

Five-star ANCAP, comprehensive airbags, and stability aids make it family-friendly.

Peugeot 407 vs. Ford Mondeo?

407 offers style and ride comfort; Mondeo edges dynamics and space.

Is the 407 SW estate practical?

Yes—huge boot, flexible seats, great for loads.

Long-Term Ownership Verdict

The Peugeot 407 endures as a cult classic for its bold design and effortless cruising. Not flawless, but rewarding for fans of refined, efficient motoring. In a sea of bland execs, it remains elegantly French.