A WHILE ago I was left underwhelmed after road testing a diesel Peugeot 406.
To be honest, I didn't care much for its looks or performance.
Then last week I went back to the 406 in the shape of the diesel coupe - and this time I was well and truly wowed.
The Coupe SE 2.2 HDi is a gorgeous car which performs pretty well too.
Let's forget about its on road capabilities for the time being, because it is visually that the coupe is a real winner. Its styling is the work of renowned Italian design house Pininfarina. The Turin company, which has also worked its magic on Ferrari models, has done a belting job.
The coupe has a real presence with distinctive flowing lines dipping into a sharp nose. Even when stationery it looks like it's going places.
But it's inside where you'll really be impressed with what this two-door car has to offer.
Open the door and you're greeted by a cabin which is simply sumptuous. It boasts more leather than you would find in Amsterdam's red light district with two sports seats at the front, two bucket seats in the rear and a steering wheel and gear knob made from cow hide. There are also a number of chrome touches, including the instrument surrounds, which help break up the largely dark-coloured materials.
Around the dashboard and elsewhere in the interior, quality soft-touch materials have been used, helping to make the coupe a comfortable place to be in. The feel is rounded off with luxury carpet mats.
In terms of equipment and options, the coupe SE has a high level of specification. As well as electric windows and mirrors, the front seats are also electrically operated and heated. You also get cruise control, satellite navigation, CD changer, trip computer and plenty of safety features.
When it came to being inside the coupe, the one thing I wasn't a big fan of was the orange screen displaying the radio/trip computer etc. The orange glow just didn't look right in what was otherwise a gorgeous interior.
As well as being attractive and luxurious it is also quite spacious. In the front two adults are accommodated no problem while the rear also has two full size seats although, as usual with coupes, it might be a bit of a squeeze getting four in. You also get a sizeable boot.
While the looks aren't matched by an electric driving experience, neither is its performance painful.
The HDi engine produces 136bhp and 0-62mph acceleration is a touch over 10 seconds - this isn't fantastic but it does feel quicker. When you need to move quickly, plant your foot firmly on the accelerator and the car will pull away at a decent rate.
The Coupe also provides a quiet, smooth ride and gear changes are slick. Being a diesel it's also economical.
All in all it's a great car - just a pity it's only going to be on sale in the UK until the end of the year.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 406 Coupe SE 2.2 HDi
Price: £24,995
Mechanical: 136bhp, 2,179cc, 4 cylinder diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 129mph
0-62mph: 10.1secs
Combined mpg: 44.1
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 168g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint