Peugeot 307 2001-07
The 307 has replaced the 306, which was a notably
good & reliable car. To date though unfortunately the 307 has had a few
snags including electrics. It is always worth checking what types of defects
are covered by any existing car warranty on your used Peugeot 307. Click4Warranty provide a range of extended car warranties for used cars. Styling
The 307 has a noticeable nose, which is heavy in design. It was great when it was first produced but as the years have gone on, it has become surpassed by many of its rivals. Some say that it hasn't aged well. It is undoubtedly snooty & looks far less graceful than others. However, its curvy exterior lines show wrap around headlights, and a large swooping windscreen & a high roofline make it a bold looking vehicle. Some of the 307s feature body coloured front & rear bumpers, 17"alloy wheels, body coloured door mirror housings & handles along with body coloured side rubbing strips, ensuring that minor parking damage is minimal.
Interior
The interior cabin unfortunately is awash with cheap looking trim, unless you buy higher in the range. The dashboard is thoughtfully laid out, simple & precise. The remainder of the controls are easily at hand. There's plenty of headroom, but the driving position can be uncomfortable albeit the seats are supportive, but aren't as comfy as some others. The pedals are made for smaller feet with the clutch having a long pedal travel. There is also ample space for front & rear passengers. Both hatchback & estate versions boast a nice, spacious boot. The rear load area is sizable & deep, although the access is compromised by the large rear light clusters. The rear seats fold 60:40 rear split & when folded the boot can accommodate 790 litres. Within the boot there is a net of 6 load securing rings. The boot also has two stowage compartments behind the wheel arches, a full width lidded stowage compartment in the boot floor, two shopping hooks under the parcel shelf. There is also lots of space for bits & pieces due to a few cubby holes, drinks holders & storage drawers. The glovebox is handily air-conditioned. There is also front & rear courtesy lights with delay, front map reading lights.
Engine
All of the petrol engines 1.4, 1.6 & 2.0 are quite lively, but unrefined. The 1.6 is the best regarding performance & economy. The 2.0 litre engine is with 140bhp & recently with 180bhp in the Feline model. Notably, Peugeot has a highly regarded reputation for diesel engines & the diesel models 2.0 with 90 or 110bhp are both frugal & fun, especially the D-Turbo 110bhp. These diesel units were then later replaced by 1.6 HDi units in 90 & 110bhp forms & a 2.0 HDi with 136bhp.
Driving
The 307 drives well but it is however easily forgotten. It isn't as nimble as the 306 because the safety equipment & added comfort has weighed it down. It is safe, solid & easy to drive. The steering is light, but not easy to park due to the rear pillars being chunky & they restrict visibility. The 307's suspension is reasonable; it copes well with bumps but doesn't roll too much around corners. The handling feels sluggish compared to more modern rivals. Some of the petrol versions can be let down by a knotty gearchange & sharp clutch. Even thought the 307 is comfortable both in town & motorway, there does tend to be some road noise. The standard audio system gives decent quality & the optional satnav works well. Overall it is a middle-of-the-road performance.
Models
Most buyers will opt for one of the excellent "HDI" diesel versions. The 1.6 HDI is particularly impressive for not only its performance but also its economy. The diesel engined versions benefit from the economy of Peugeot-Citroen's excellent HDI diesel engine.
All models have six airbags including front & rear curtain bags. The 307 has a 4-star Euro NCAP rating, which is good, but not the best in its class. The ABS & Electronic Brake Distribution are also on all models. The 307 has an effective immobiliser & deadlocks from the Rapier models upwards. The alarm with remote control central locking & deadlocks are only standard on the XSI and D-Turbo models.
Copyright © 2008 Click4Warranty
The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily held by the Click4Group unless specifically stated. The material is for general information only. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.
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