Used Peugeot 307 CC 2003 - 2009 review

Following on from the popularity of the Peugeot 306 convertible, and the successful folding metal and glass roof on the 206 CC, came the handsome Peugeot 307 CC.

Sadly, the added weight of that natty roof works against performance and handling. And, while the car drives well enough and can be quite good fun, it's more of a cruiser than a racer. To its credit, even with the roof down, the body is fairly stiff and there's minimum wind noise. But, with the roof up, road and engine noise are noticeable.

Unlike some coupe-cabrios, the 307 CC has four usable seats, and adults can fit into the rear seats, but the legroom is limited if there are tall occupants up front. Like all cars of its type, though, boot space is reduced when the roof is down, but the 307's is not unreasonable. Generally, build quality is good and the materials feel sturdy and well assembled.

The 307 CC is a little more expensive to buy and run than its chief rival, the Renault Megane, but it will probably hold its value better.

Fuel economy isnt bad: even the most powerful petrol is not much worse than the smallest, but the diesel is the best, with over 47mpg. However, some owners complain of not being able to get near the official figures.

Servicing and maintenance costs are roughly the same as the rest of the 307 family, but you can save a considerable amount by going to an independent garage.

Most importantly, the range received some minor alterations is 2005, designed to improve reliability, so go for one of those if you can afford it.

There are four engines to choose from, starting off with a 110bhp 1.6-litre petrol unit, and including two 2.0-litre petrols (with 138bhp and 180bhp). Then, from 2005 a 136bhp 2.0-litre diesel option was also available.

In reality, the 1.6 petrol engine is not really up to pulling such a heavy car, and even the 2.0-litre petrols don't feel particularly quick, especially with the automatic gearbox, which is available with the 138bhp petrol only. As a result, the diesel, which has the most pulling power, is best suited to the CC's more laidback driving style.

Equipment levels are good, and all models come with alloy wheels, climate control and a CD player, as well as electric operation for the roof, windows and mirrors. The most powerful model has part-leather trim and a CD multichanger. Desirable options to look out for include full leather trim and sat-nav.

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