Used Peugeot 607 Saloon 2000 - 2009 review

Image and the badge on the bonnet are the most important things when it comes to executive motoring. Which means that, for many people the Peugeot 607 just doesn't cut the mustard. However, if you can look past that, the 607 is a very sensible used buy.

After all, it's not without its stengths. Above all, it's an excellent motorway cruiser and capable round town, although the steering is too light. It may lack the sheer performance of the class leaders, but the engines are smooth and quiet, and there's little in the way of wind noise in the cabin.

The interior design is fussy - why put the sunroof button behind the gearstick, where it's difficult to get to? - but equipment levels are high, and the switches give off the right classy feel.

Mind you, that's more than you can say about the awkward driving position. Taller drivers will find there's enough headroom, but not enough leg space, and things aren't much better in the back, where the swooping roof is also restrictive. At least, the boot is massive.

Big French saloons are never great at retaining their value, and this car is no exception. The prices are higher than some previous Peugeots, but find one in good condition with low miles, and it could be a bargain.

The fuel economy of the diesel models is excellent, with all offering at least 40mpg. The 2.0-litre 110bhp unit gives the best performance, with 47mpg. If you want to stay off fuel station forecourts, avoid the petrols; the 3.0-litre V6 only returns 28mpg.

Getting a 607 serviced will be easy enough, although data from Warranty Direct suggest Peugeot's maintenance and repair bills are above the industry average. Spares could be an issue if you have an accident, because the comparative rarity of the 607 on UK roads means parts may take longer to source.

At launch in 2000, there were three engines, 160bhp 2.2-litre and 204bhp 3.0-litre V6 (upgraded to 211bhp in December 2004) petrols, as well as an 136bhp 2.2-litre diesel. A 2.0 110bhp diesel and a 2.0 138bhp petrol were added in 2001, and your best bet is to buy any one of the diesels, although the 110bhp version is a bit weedy.

There was a very minor face-lift at the end of 2004, and the range was simplified a year later to just a 2.0-litre 136bhp diesel and the 3.0-litre petrol. A 2.2-litre 170bhp diesel was added in 2006.

Trims levels at launch were S, SE and Executive, but from late 2005 the first two were ditched. If you can afford it, Executive is the spec to go for, although standard kit on all models is high.

Peugeot's approved used scheme will provide peace-of-mind buying, but there're good deals to be had at auctions specialising in ex-lease vehicles.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here