Perhaps you've noticed that you cannot mistake the Peugeot 407 for any other car. Peugeot has done a great job with the styling of its new mid-size model. Whereas some cars feature a look of sameness, the new 407 is quite distinctive in appearance. The big grille, the long front overhang, the rakish windscreen and the stylish 'C' pillar all combine to provide a stand-out styling exercise which exudes individuality. This car looks even better in reality than it does in photography!

For this road test we drive the top of the line 'SV' sedan. The 3-litre V6 is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, which features a sequential shifting mechanism for those you desire a sporting touch to their 'manual' driving.

One should have high expectations when it comes to driving a Peugeot. And one isn't disappointed when driving the 407 SV. This model is as comfortable as you would ever want and it is as powerful as you'll ever need for relaxed and comfortable driving. The entire package presents as a stress-free environment. The car handles delightfully, the steering is perfect and the braking is superb. Driving the 407 SV is always a satisfying experience.

However, one problem did surface during our time with this wonderful car. Let me explain ..... my residence is on the high side of the street, although the driveway isn't particularly steep. But when driving out of my property, the front overhang on the 407 puts you in a stick your chin out situation. It's the same when I'm in a low-slung sporty number. Fortunately, my neighbour and I have driveways which meet. This enables a sideways manoeuvre which eases the exit from the driveway without causing damage to the car. The 407 may not suit folks who have a steep driveway where the long front overhang may cause problems.

The top of the line 407 SV sedan is priced from $55,990 (RRP). The only options available for this model are metallic paint and a glass electrically operated sliding sunroof. The package is complete! Standard equipment includes, but is not limited to, leather seating (upfront the seats are electrically operated with heating), 6 stack CD with the audio system, digital climate-control air conditioning with dual control, one touch electric windows with anti-pinch feature, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, driver foot rest, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, electric folding door mirrors, rear sun blind, electronic parking assistance, alloy wheels, automatic rain-sensing front wipers, xenon headlights with automatic height adjustment, cruise control, speed sensitive power steering and the all-important automatic headlights.

Yes, indeed, the 407 SV is complete!

Peugeot sales are expanding. And the 407 is a good part of the explanation accounting for the increase in activity at Peugeot dealerships. The excellent pricing structure of the 407 line-up, coupled to the fact that the 407s (and the SV in particular) are mighty fine examples of stylish, modern-day, European luxury cars. The behind the wheel experience is stress-free and the styling is up there with the best of them.

If you lived in a 'dreamland' and you dreamt of the perfect car for your world, I can easily imagine many of the attributes would be matched by the Peugeot 407 SV. Just don't stick your nose out though!

Stephen Walker
18th July, 2005