Peugeot 406 Coupe (Phase I ) 2.2 HDi (133 Hp)

The Peugeot 406 Coupe, particularly the Phase I model introduced in 1997, represents a distinctive era in Peugeot’s design and engineering. While not officially sold in the United States, the 406 Coupe gained significant popularity in Europe as a stylish and capable grand tourer. This two-door coupe offered a blend of performance, comfort, and striking aesthetics, setting it apart from more mainstream offerings. The 2.2 HDi variant, powered by a diesel engine, was a key part of the lineup, appealing to drivers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing driving pleasure. Production of this specific phase ran from 2000 to 2003.

Peugeot 406 Coupe: A European Grand Tourer

The 406 Coupe was positioned as Peugeot’s flagship coupe, designed to compete with vehicles like the Audi Coupe and BMW 3 Series Coupe. It distinguished itself with Pininfarina-penned styling, a collaboration that resulted in a sleek, aerodynamic profile. The Phase I models, produced from 1997, established the car’s core design language, which was later refined in subsequent phases. The 2.2 HDi engine option provided a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline engines, offering improved fuel economy and torque, making it a popular choice for long-distance travel.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the 406 Coupe 2.2 HDi is a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated 4HZ DW12TED4. This engine produces 133 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 314 Nm (231.59 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to optimize performance and efficiency. The engine’s displacement is 2179 cm³ (132.97 cu. in.), and it features a high compression ratio of 18:1. This configuration delivers a power-to-liter ratio of 61 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle.

Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.9 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 10.4 seconds. The car achieves a maximum speed of 208 km/h (129.25 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.6 kg/Hp, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 4.5 kg/Nm. The drivetrain consists of a five-speed manual transmission, sending power to the front wheels. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l).

Design & Features

The Peugeot 406 Coupe is a two-door, four-seater coupe characterized by its elegant and flowing lines. The Pininfarina design emphasizes a long hood, a sloping roofline, and a short rear deck. The car’s dimensions are 4620 mm (181.89 in.) in length, 1780 mm (70.08 in.) in width, and 1350 mm (53.15 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2700 mm (106.3 in.).

Inside, the 406 Coupe offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. Features included power steering (hydraulic), ABS (Anti-lock braking system), ventilated front disc brakes, and rear disc brakes. The interior prioritized driver and passenger comfort, with supportive seats and a focus on ergonomics. Trunk space is rated at 390 liters (13.77 cu. ft.). The car’s kerb weight is 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs), with a maximum weight of 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs) and a maximum load capacity of 425 kg (936.96 lbs). The fuel tank capacity is 70 liters (18.49 US gal, 15.4 UK gal).

Technical Specifications