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Peugeot 607

You've got to hand it to Peugeot, it's persistent. Despite the decreasing popularity of large mass-market executive cars in the Nineties, the French giant still launched one in late 2000.

January 2004

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You've got to hand it to Peugeot, it's persistent. Despite the decreasing popularity of large mass-market executive cars in the Nineties, the French giant still launched one in late 2000.
With styling inspired by the popular 206, plus a plush, roomy interior, it had plenty of appeal. It also boasted low prices and loads of equipment.
However, in a sector where image is all, the 607 failed to attract buyers. This is despite spec which, on V6 models, extends to electronic suspension and a built-in phone. Even the base 2.0-litre models have climate control. Early handling woes led to the addition of electronic driver aids, and these, along with a four-star Euro NCAP rating, ensure it's a very safe car. And all for the price of a brand new 206!
Checklist

* Electrics: Problems are not unknown - so make sure all the gadgets work. Multiplex wiring means a slight operation delay if many devices are on. Column stalks are flimsy.

* Engine: diesel HDi engines suffer fuel pump and clutch faults. With the latter, ensure the pedal works smoothly (without judder) and not at the extremes of its travel.

* Brakes: the 607's heaviness can lead to rapid brake wear. Check discs for scoring and grooves. Also ensure the brake pad wear warning light goes on and off at start-up.

* Mobile phones: post-Sept 2003 models include Bluetooth wiring for hands-free mobile use through the stereo speakers. V6 models have a built-in phone, but check the paperwork to avoid unexpected bills.

* Bootlid: many nearly new models will be low-mileage ex-dealer principal motors with plenty of margin for haggling. All 53-reg cars should feature the electric bootlid.
Driving impressions
Passengers get plenty of room, luxurious leather seats and an impressive ride. Strangely, cheaper models are more comfortable than the range-topping V6, due to its large wheels and roll-reducing electronic suspension.
The V6 sounds nice but needs to be worked hard - go for the punchy, smooth 2.2-litre HDi instead. The 2.0-litre petrol and 2.0 HDi diesel are OK, but the 2.2-litre petrol is not much more economical than the V6.
Glass's View
The 607 has sold in very small num-bers since its launch. And despite the fact that the car is well put together and has a good level of specification, consumers continue to show resistance to buying non-prestigious executive motors, preferring BMWs or Mercedes instead. As with most large cars, diesels are favoured over petrol variants. Peugeot's HDi oil-burner is particularly good, and is the focus of demand. V6 petrol versions are hard to shift and depreciation is steep. Jeff Paterson, Snr Cars Editor, Glass's Guide
Life With A 607
My 607 is a company car, and I'm glad I don't own it because the depreciation is horrific. The Peugeot is a bit quirky and very comfortable, but I prefer the Citroen XM I had before it. Ged Butterfield, Weymouth, Dorset
I've had electrical problems with my X-reg 2.2 HDi, but it was a real bargain used - cheaper than a similar-aged Ford Mondeo and more luxurious. Graham McNally, Bishop Auckland, Durham

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In terms of performance, refinement, space, driver appeal, build and kit, Peugeot has greatly improved its executive challenger. Pricing will significantly undercut rivals, too, making it a potential hit with canny buyers. But we can't see the 607 making a major impact on the executive scene, as the Peugeot badge carries little kudos. Image is everything in this market, and the quirky-looking 607 is destined to lag behind class leaders from BMW and Audi.

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1 Comment

arocosia

Think of the second hand 607 as a bigger hugely equipped 407 but a lot lot cheaper. Not the friendliest in terms of repairs and servicing costs but if you are not interested in snobbery but want road presence and a car that drives you then you cannot beat this car. Go for the diesels but ensure you have FSH main dealer history as the car is often seen on the minicab circuit and is played around with alot by 'diy car mechanics' - particularly the electronics such as the tyre sensors. I think it is either 54 or 05 where nav system went to widescreen? - check that the latest satnav disc upgrade has occurred (shows a cared for car) and also watch out for cambelt changes as loads of confusion as to whether it is 70, 80 or 90,000 miles - you can be in big trouble if there hasnt been a cambelt replace near to the interval. Forget the car trader spiel - there is absolutely no reason for you not to expect FSH with this car. Walk away if it isn't there.
No surprise that they have stopped importing the 607 now into the UK which seems to reaffirm the belief that the 608 will be hitting the UK market in the next 18 months or less. Nobody seems to know but no-one is saying that it isn't coming out. Think of the new 608 as a fully grown up RCZ with all the toys. Once again - it is highly likely to be discounted against the Germans and no doubt middle england will continue to hate it.
However, if you are badge snob adverse then you will have the choice of a 607 that literally will be peanuts to buy and a heavily depreciating 608 second hand car market at 50 to 65% cheaper than german comparables - it's one of the best buys. To me it sits with the 5 series, E class and A6.Will never be top end A8 or Phaeton but ignore middle england and own the road with all the toys and laugh at all the cash you have saved.
Your choice.

By arocosia on 17 October, 2010, 10:25am

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VERDICT

    In terms of performance, refinement, space, driver appeal, build and kit, Peugeot has greatly improved its executive challenger. Pricing will significantly undercut rivals, too, making it a potential hit with canny buyers. But we can't see the 607 making a major impact on the executive scene, as the Peugeot badge carries little kudos. Image is everything in this market, and the quirky-looking 607 is destined to lag behind class leaders from BMW and Audi.
 

OTHER EXPENSES

Depreciation:2
Running costs (ppm):N/A
Insurance groups:15-18

HISTORY

    2000: 607 range arrives in October. 2.2 and 3.0-litre V6 petrols offered, plus 2.0 HDi and 2.2-litre HDi diesels. 2001: Higher-spec 2.0 HDi SE arrives. 2002: New 2.0-litre petrol unit debuts as a high-value entry-level model.
    2003: Range revised to include rear side airbags, electric bootlid and Blue-tooth. Trims now only S and SE, the latter including sat-nav. S Executive option has 17-inch alloys and sat-nav.
 
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