IN the world of the mass market car maker Peugeot has most angles covered.
With its appealing trio of body shapes - hatchback, estate and convertible, the little 207 established itself as a leader in the small car market back in 2007 and, by the end of 2008, some 423,700 Peugeot 207s had been sold in Britain.
However, there can be none more fickle than the British car buyer and, with a further 12 months lying ahead before the next 207 generation appears on the scene, the current model has undergone a revamp inside and out.
While retaining a visual balance expressing strength and dynamism, the latest 207 has adopted a softer outward appearance with a one-piece front lower panel which redefines the contours of the air intake.
And, in a bid for a wider look to the car, chrome rimmed circular front fogs have been introduced along with more body colour detailing.
Viewed from the back, both 207 Hatchback and CC models now feature a quite spectacular high-tech rear lighting set up with panels of LEDs making quite a statement while the lower rear bumper panel now gets the body colour treatment.
New style wheels and wheel trims add further to the new 207's distinctive profile while the Hatchback Premium version and CC and SW Sport derivatives now boast chrome detailing as opposed to a black only finish.
Inside there are new instrument panel designs with a more modern look while new trims and finer detailing help to provide a more luxury look.
Peugeot's commitment to further reducing fuel consumption gets a helping hand from the introduction of kit such as a gear change indicator on the dash.
The new 207 range boasts a wide range of petrol and diesel engines which include the environmentally friendly HDi FAP diesel capable of reducing CO2 emissions to just 99g/km.
Offering adept handling and a supple ride, new 207 hatch comes with the option of three or five doors. It is a surprisingly smooth operator which offers a handsomely striking image.
The revamped 207 range opens up at £10,695 for the three door Urban Hatch, rising to £16,995 for the range topping GTI.
The SW estate weighs in at £13,495 for the S level 1.4 and rises to £17,095 for the 1.6 HDI 110bhp Outdoor.
The CC has become Europe's most popular cabiolet and is priced from £16,695 for the entry level 1.6 VTi 120bhp CC Sport rising to £19,245 for the range topping 207 CC GT HDi 110bhp.
Words: Malcolm Robertshaw