Peugeot 206 SW Si

By Lesley Harris

January 2003

But they're not usually this shape... In a move that's bound to raise purists' eyebrows, the company has crammed the 2.0-litre engine from the 206 GTi under the bonnet of the practical 206 SW. This has given the estate a healthy dose of extra pace - but has Peugeot really produced a genuine hot hatch?

To make sure, the quirky SW has been treated to some sporty extras, including a set of 16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, an aluminium fuel filler cap and a restyled front bumper. The result is a youthful-looking estate that appears sharp from every angle.

But what about the performance? Pumping out 138bhp, the powerplant whips the Peugeot up to 60mph in 9.3 seconds, and on to a top speed of 130mph. The car doesn't feel that quick thanks to the peaky power delivery, but the engine certainly has character.

Thankfully, the handling is better, with the usual 206 verve and enthusiasm for a twisty road. The steering is direct and there's plenty of feedback, although around town it can feel rather heavy. But while the ride is supple, the car's refinement leaves a great deal to be desired, with bumps and potholes sending vibrations right through the cabin. A penetrating engine note also makes motorway driving a chore.

As this is the flagship Si, the cabin has plenty of equipment, and it looks great. Aluminium trim on the gearknob and pedals continues the sporty theme, while leather and Alcantara upholstery and sports front seats add to the premium feel. Sadly, the arrangement is not as comfortable as it looks, as the driving position lacks adjustability.

To keep occupants safe, four airbags are fitted, and the brakes prove strong thanks to standard-fit ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Electronic Brake Assist. Considering this is the high-performance model, fuel economy is good, with 35.8mpg on offer. It's al-so competitive on emissions, with 189g/km of CO2 placing the Si in the 18 per cent company car tax bracket.

A 206 SW Si will cost you ΂£14,680 - ΂£1,000 more than the three-door GTi. Compact performance estates are pretty rare, though, and the Skoda Fabia is one of the few rivals. The flagship 2.0-litre Elegance load-lugger is neither as fast or sporty as the 206, but it's at least as practical and will set you back only ΂£12,750. We'd sacrifice some speed and go for the Czech car.

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