USED Peugeot 206 Hatchback (98 - 09)

My car

I bought this car in 2004. From the very beginning it presented various problems - mainly electrical problems and squeaking/rattling noises. The interior plastics were of the worst quality. The only good things about this car were its great look and handling and its economy.

My car

Having stepped out of a Vectra V6 this was going to be quite a comedown. Increasing fuel costs due to a change of address and subsequent city congestion and a desired insurance reduction being the main drivers in the car change choice.

On paper the HDi GTi looks a good prospect, with a reasonable turn of speed and a high spec list for a small car. The drive of the low revving diesel engine reduces some of the hot hatch driving pleasure, the lack of engine note/ high revs seems to confuse the senses into assuming a slower pace.

The engine is a cracker, though i have yet to achieve the quoted mpg figures, high 40's with a good mix of driving are feasable. The motorway perfomance is not a deal better, this car needs a 6th gear for motorway work.

The cabin is relativeley noisy (see V6 vectra note above) at speed and build quality typically French, certainly no mini cooper!

Aside from a niggling problem with the rpms continuing to rise after lift off (only when warm) which my dealer tells me is a feature of the car, its a good car, if a little bit boy racer.

I have yet to be impressed with after-sales.

My car

Let you know more when my car arrives. Only went for a test drive.

My car

I purchased my 1.6 16v XSi in 2002 with the full SP kit and 16-inch alloys. It has GTi looks without the insurance premiums.

Equipment is generous for a small car, but interior plastics look cheap and build quality isn't the best. Performance from the 110bhp engine is quite pleasing. It can keep pace with the standard GTi. Handling is pretty good. The back end gets light when pushed hard and understeers a bit.

Offset pedals and steering wheel make you sit in a strange position, not good on a long journey. Running costs are average. Around 35mpg is normal. Tyres lasted 8k. I changed front pads at 14k, discs and pads all round at 27k. Servicing is expensive, £240 for a dozen or so "checks" and a rubber stamp in your book. Suffered engine cut out and bad idle. I've had the exhaust manifold pressure sensor replaced 3 times. Problems with C/L, drivers door doesn't always unlock. At 14k, the diff broke. Gearbox replaced.

Collected the car, straight back with a noisey thrust bearing. Clutch was replaced. Then I lost drive, all revvs and no go! The "new" reconditioned gear box they fitted was fractured, letting oil into the clutch. Another new clutch and gearbox fitted! The dealership themselves, not very helpful. You have to chase them for parts. They never seem to have any courtesy cars available.