First drive: Peugeot 207 Sport 1.6-litre petrol – on sale now

Peugeot’s 20– series has been a success since its initial launch in 1929. The 206, which has been available in the UK since 1998, has sold 594,523 examples to date and the French manufacturer will be hoping to build on this figure with the 207.

Rather than replacing the 206, the car will be sold alongside its predecessor and is aimed at “a new generation of customers”.

Its sporty and slightly aggressive exterior should boost its appeal to the male customer for whom the 206 may appear too ‘girly’.

At 200mm longer, 65mm wider and 56mm higher than the 206, the interior feels spacious, justifying Peugeot’s decision to market it as a small family car.

Overall, the 207 feels solid and responsive, though the steering is very light. With the Sport and GT versions you get a great looking dash, though the optional chrome finish around the centre console tends to reflect sunlight straight at the driver.

The petrol version comes with a choice of two 1.4-litre engines, as well as the nippier 1.6-litre 16v. At £11,395, the 1.6-litre petrol Sport is well priced within its range, making it a perfect buy for someone looking for a mid-sized car that’s fun to drive.

However, at 30.3mpg the 1.6-litre engine could prove costly to run, so the 1.4-litre version could be a better choice for those looking for a safe, efficient, family car.

Price: £11,395
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol; 90bhp @ 5250 rpm; 98lb ft @ 3250 rpm
Performance: 0-62mph 10.6sec; top speed 121mph
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Efficiency: 30.3mpg combined; 166g/km CO2
CAP RV 3yr/30k: £4,450 (40%)
Rivals: Golf FSI, C2 VTS, Corolla T3
Strength: Good pricing, fun drive
Weakness: Light steering
Opportunity: Incremental sales
Threat: Lot to live up to after 206
USP: Cute, nippy car