Why is the Peugeot 207 not as good as the 206?
4 Answers
The domestically produced Peugeot 207 is a facelifted version of the 206. The Peugeot 207 features a completely new exterior design, with significantly increased dimensions compared to the Peugeot 206. This includes a 20 cm increase in body length, now reaching 4.03 meters, as well as extended wheelbase and track, resulting in improved interior space. Here are the relevant details about the Dongfeng Peugeot 207: 1. Detail one: On May 28, 2010, Dongfeng Peugeot officially launched the 2010 Peugeot 207 model. 2. Detail two: The domestically produced Peugeot 207 is a facelifted version of the 206, with no changes made to key components such as the engine and chassis, remaining interchangeable with the 206. 3. Detail three: With its completely new exterior design, the dimensions have significantly increased, including a 20 cm increase in body length, now reaching 4.03 meters, along with extended wheelbase and track, resulting in improved interior space.
When I was younger, I drove the 206 and 207, and the 207 always felt less agile in handling compared to the 206. The 206's steering wheel was particularly light and responsive, with precise turning, making cornering as enjoyable as dancing. In contrast, the 207 added weight, felt a bit sluggish in response, and was more fuel-consuming in city driving. Externally, the 207 grew in size but its design wasn't as refined, losing the classic French charm of the 206 with its rounded lines. It also had more minor electronic issues, like window switches or dashboard malfunctions. At its launch, the 207 didn't address reliability problems well, leading to poor market feedback, with many car enthusiasts complaining that it lost the fun of driving and instead added troubles. In short, the 207 upgraded in size but lost the essence of the driving experience.
Having driven for decades, comparing the 206 and 207, the 207 isn't as stable as the 206. I drove the 206 for over ten years without major repairs—solid chassis and high reliability. The 207 started having issues within just a few years, especially with suspension components wearing out easily and electrical circuits frequently shorting. Design-wise, the 207 doesn't offer much more space, but the increased weight makes it feel sluggish and less dynamic. The 207's higher level of electronics not only makes repairs expensive but also doubles maintenance costs. We veteran owners all agree the 206 is more cost-effective and durable, offering peace of mind and safety for daily driving. The 207 depreciates quickly in the used car market, clearly unable to match the 206's strong reputation.
As a car enthusiast, I find the 207 less appealing in design compared to the 206. The 206's compact and agile styling is distinctive, with its rounded and adorable front end resembling a cute toy. The 207 adopted a more boxy and larger design, but its lines appear rigid and lack personality. The interior feels more plasticky, and the overall refinement doesn't match the 206's delicate craftsmanship. On the road, the 207 is heavier, with slower handling response and less smooth cornering compared to the 206's fluid experience. It also suffers from higher electronic failure rates, requiring frequent repairs, which diminishes its reliability. Market reviews are largely negative, with many users nostalgic for the 206. The 207's innovations missed the mark, disrupting the original charm instead of enhancing it.
