Nip ’n’ tuck as 407 targets Mondeo

Peugeot’s family favourite has gone under the knife – and these are the pictures that show the extent of the surgery. On sale next year, the face­lifted 407 will provide stronger competition to the latest Ford Mondeo.

The newcomer takes its inspiration from the 908 RC concept, which was seen at the Paris Motor Show in Sept­ember 2006. At the front, there’s a fresh grille complete with a bold centre rubbing strip and sleeker spotlights, while the bonnet has a similar shape to those on the smaller 207 and 308, with a pronounced overhang.

The rear features curvy new taillights, while the visual changes are finished off by a restyled bootlid. Inside, the soft-touch materials, classy dash dials and simple layout of the new 308 will be carried over to the bigger 407, and standard equipment is likely to be improved, too.

While the suspension will be left alone, Peugeot plans to update the engine range. There will be a line-up of cleaner HDi diesels, sourced from sister brand Citroen’s imminent C5. The range comprises a 108bhp 1.6, a 2.0-litre with 136bhp and a 171bhp 2.2. All are fitted with diesel particu­late fil­ters and meet Euro V emissions rules.

Meanwhile, Peugeot has revealed it won’t introduce fuel-friendly stop-start tech­nology on any of the conventionally fuelled models in its line-up.
Citroen offers this set-up on its C3, but Peugeot will only use the innovation on its forthcoming hybrids.