Peugeot 206 XT Car Review

Peugeot's 206 hatch is a popular car in Europe and has won several European automobile awards since its inception in 1999. The previous model line-up of GTi and XR hatches has been expanded with the latest 206 XT, a five door hatch with a 1.6 litre, 16 valve engine.

With contemporary style and charisma, the 206 has been hailed as one of the best looking of the small hatches. Its smooth flowing lines are typical of a smart European hatch, attaining the look that others outside the Continent have tried to imitate without the same success.

The XT is available in both manual and automatic with a price tag of $22,990 and $24,990 respectively. Standard equipment on the XT includes dual front airbags, airconditioning, remote central locking, engine immobiliser, power steering, electric windows and mirrors, driver's seat height adjustment, CD player and front seat belt pre-tensioners. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), side airbags, metallic paint and power sunroof are optional.

The 1.6 litre, SOHC engine has been replaced with one of the same capacity, but with two camshafts and 16 valves in a new cylinder head, boosting the power from 67 kW to 82 kW and the torque from 137 Nm to 147 Nm. The engine has been upgraded using lighter pistons and roller type rockers to reduce internal friction, and incorporates a single multi-toothed drive belt to drive all ancillaries. A new fuel injection system combines with an upgraded ignition system that has individual coil packs for each cylinder and a more effective cooling system to provide greater power and efficiency.

An 'Auto-Active', four speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission has been added to the line-up, using a program that adapts its operation to coincide with driving conditions, driver style, and engine load and temperature. Three buttons adjacent to the selector lever provide 'sports', 'slippery surface' and 'first gear lock' modes.

The front suspension consists of McPherson struts, coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear uses torsion bars with trailing arms. The four-wheel disc brake system can be upgraded with an optional four sensor ABS.

Head and leg space in the front cabin area is quite acceptable with supportive and comfortable front seating. Space in the rear is quite tight with limited head, shoulder and legroom. The seat width is really only suited to two persons and while the seat itself is quite comfortable, the space is fairly restrictive.

In keeping with most European cars, safety is a high priority

In keeping with most European cars, safety is a high priority and with the 206, many of its safety features are built into the bodywork. Its structure incorporates extensive energy absorption elements that are designed to protect the occupants. Numerous features involving seats, safety belts, padding, air bags and steering column combine to provide a high standard of safety that satisfies both Australian and European standards.

The European control layout requires only minor driver orientation, the column stalks for the wiper and light operation being opposite to the usual Australian/Japanese positions. I found the window and mirror controls, located toward the rear of the centre console, a little awkward to operate. This would be accentuated when the seat is further forward.

The previous 1.6 SOHC engine earned a reputation for its refinement and responsiveness, noticeably surpassing its competitors. The DOHC multi-valve engine used in the XT extends the reputation even further with good torque and response.

There are times when the transmission's 'smart' technology seems to outsmart itself. Whilst its shift quality is quite good and the automatic downshifting when decelerating provides excellent acceleration when driving through and out of corners, there are times when the transmission tends to hang on in some gears causing some shuddering and indecision, especially when bringing the vehicle to a stop.

Peugeots are also renowned for their excellent handling qualities and braking with the 206 being no exception. On urban roads or country touring it provides reassuring stability, supported by steering that has good feel and feedback, plus confident braking.

Summary

The 206 XT has a high price tag compared with many of its competitors, although it could be argued that it has more built-in safety. Rear cabin space is always a compromise in this vehicle class, and I felt the transmission and ride quality was not up to Peugeot's usual standard. Whilst there is a pocket of buyers who will pay for the European flair with its associated touring finesse, not all will be willing to indulge.

Test vehicle supplied by Peugeot Concessionaires Australia.