IN a day and age where every penny counts, the Peugeot 207 could be the ideal way to help cut costs and save money in the long run.
Because for a very reasonable initial outlay you are guaranteed a whole lot of car and unlike many rivals, the standard spec list is very impressive too without a host of hidden charges for little extras here and there.
With a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, the 207 Economique+ supplied for my test drive was comfortable, spacious, deceptively powerful and offered a great all-round drive. And despite clocking up some serious mileage, the fuel gauge barely dropped. In fact, at one stage I was flicking the dial to make sure it was working, but then I checked out the stats for the vehicle's economy - an impressive combined fuel figure of more than 74mpg.
The 207 is neatly designed with attractive lines and once, inside, it is very spacious and offers a generally comfortable ride. All the controls and dials are ideally situated for ease of use and the vehicle is generously equipped with features such as electric windows, air conditioning, remote central locking and an on-board computer.
I did find the wing mirrors a little small which restricted visibility a bit and the fact the passenger side mirror had to be adjusted with a control on the passenger's door made leaning over and correcting its position a little irritating.
But that slight gripe aside, I found it hard to fault the 207.
The 1.6-litre engine was very responsive both in and around town and out on the open road and the vehicle was a dream to park even in the tightest of spaces.
Throughout the cabin are numerous storage spaces and the boot is also generously sized.
The 207 comes fitted with a host of safety features such as anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, side airbags, a driver airbag and passenger airbag, plus much more.
Available in a choice of spec levels and engine sizes the versatile 207 has plenty to offer even the most fussy of motorists and all at a price that won't break the bank.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 207 Economique+ 1.6 HDi 90
Price: £14,670
Mechanical: 90bhp, 1,560cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 115mph
0-62mph: 11.7 seconds
Combined mpg: 74.3
Insurance group: 4
CO2 emissions: 99g/km
BIK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles