Peugeot 207: A first look - On the road

The engine range – three petrols and three turbodiesels – will initially be largely drawn from the 206, but is set to undergo big changes within months of the car going on sale. Five-speed manual gearboxes are fitted across the range, but a semi-automatic 2-Tronic option may become available later.

The petrol engines include a 75bhp 1.4-litre motor with eight valves, and 1.4- and 1.6-litre 16-valve units delivering 90 and 110bhp respectively. Those power outputs are almost mirrored by the diesels, which are 70bhp 1.4-litre, 90bhp 1.6-litre and 110bhp 1.6-litre engines.

Performance figures are more or less on a par with those of the 206, but extra weight and tougher emissions regulations have had a slightly negative impact on fuel efficiency.

The 1.6-litre engine will be replaced by a new engine of the same size. There'll be 115bhp and 150bhp versions, and another with a likely output of 170bhp which could find a home in the 207 GTi.

There are disc brakes at all four corners, whereas the 206 had drums at the rear, and they incorporate all the latest electronic aids for shorter stopping distances. Stability control also becomes available across the range.

We haven't driven the car yet, but Peugeot promises improved steering response and accuracy, added agility and less lean in corners.