Peugeot 207 SW (facelift ) 1.6 VTi (120 Hp)

Introduction to the Peugeot 207 SW (facelift 2009)

The Peugeot 207 SW (facelift 2009) represents a key offering in the highly competitive European B-segment, or subcompact class, distinguishing itself with a practical station wagon body style. Launched in 2009 as a refreshed version of the original 207 SW, this model aimed to enhance its appeal through subtle design updates, improved efficiency, and refined features, ensuring its continued relevance in a market that highly values versatility and fuel economy. While the Peugeot 207 series, and particularly its station wagon variant, was not officially sold in the United States, it played a crucial role in Peugeot’s European and international portfolio, catering to families and individuals seeking more cargo space than a traditional hatchback without stepping up to a larger, more expensive vehicle.

This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6 VTi engine delivering 120 horsepower, was positioned as a well-balanced option, offering a compelling blend of performance and economy for daily driving. The 207 SW’s design lineage draws from Peugeot’s long history of producing stylish and functional small cars, building upon the success of its predecessors like the 206 SW. The facelifted model, produced from 2009 to 2013, solidified its standing as a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice within its segment, embodying French automotive engineering focused on comfort and usability.

Engine and Performance: The 1.6 VTi Heart of the Peugeot 207 SW (facelift 2009)

At the core of the Peugeot 207 SW (facelift 2009) discussed here is the 1.6-liter VTi gasoline engine, a modern and efficient powertrain developed in collaboration with BMW. This naturally aspirated, four-cylinder inline engine (code 5FS EP6C) features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT), a technology designed to optimize valve lift and timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across the rev range. With a displacement of 1598 cubic centimeters (97.52 cubic inches), it generates a respectable 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm, providing ample power for both urban commuting and highway cruising.

Torque output stands at 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) at 4250 rpm, delivered smoothly through a multi-port manifold injection system. This engine’s characteristics contribute to a responsive driving experience, allowing the 207 SW to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 9.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 119.3 mph. For its segment and era, these figures represent a competitive performance package.

Power is channeled to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, a common and reliable setup for European subcompacts, offering direct engagement and maximizing driver control over the engine’s output. The powertrain architecture, with the engine mounted transversely at the front, is typical for front-wheel-drive vehicles, optimizing cabin space and weight distribution.

Beyond performance, efficiency was a key consideration. The 1.6 VTi engine achieves a combined fuel economy of 38.6 US mpg (6.1 l/100 km), which was commendable for a gasoline engine of its size at the time. It also met the stringent Euro 5 emission standards, with CO2 emissions of 140 g/km, reflecting Peugeot’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The engine oil capacity is 4.25 liters (4.49 US quarts), and the cooling system holds 5.7 liters (6.02 US quarts), indicating standard maintenance requirements for its class.

Design and Features: Practicality Meets European Style

The Peugeot 207 SW (facelift 2009) maintains the brand’s distinctive design language, characterized by a bold front fascia, sweeping lines, and a purposeful stance. The “SW” designation signifies its station wagon (or estate) body type, a design choice that significantly enhances the vehicle’s practicality over its hatchback sibling. The facelift introduced subtle refinements, including revised grille designs, updated headlamp and taillamp clusters, and new bumper treatments, giving the 207 SW a fresher, more contemporary look without altering its fundamental character.

Measuring 163.94 inches in length, 68.82 inches in width (77.64 inches including mirrors), and 60.12 inches in height, the 207 SW strikes a balance between compact maneuverability and interior space. The 100-inch wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and a surprisingly roomy cabin for a vehicle in this class. Inside, the 207 SW offers seating for five occupants across its five doors. The primary draw of the station wagon body is its cargo capacity. With the rear seats in place, it provides a generous 11.9 cubic feet (337 liters) of trunk space, which expands dramatically to a cavernous 44.43 cubic feet (1258 liters) when the rear seats are folded down. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for European buyers who often need to transport luggage, groceries, or sports equipment without the bulk of an SUV.

Feature-wise, the 207 SW came equipped with amenities typical for its segment in Europe. Safety was a priority, with standard features including an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ensuring stable stopping power. The braking system comprises ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The steering system is a rack and pinion type, complemented by electric power steering, which offers light and precise control, particularly beneficial in urban environments and for parking maneuvers, where its minimum turning circle of 34.78 feet is advantageous.

Suspension setup features an independent McPherson strut system at the front and a semi-independent coil spring arrangement at the rear, tuned for a comfortable ride characteristic of Peugeot vehicles. The car rides on 195/55 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort. While specific interior comfort and infotainment features might vary by trim level, the 207 SW generally offered a well-appointed cabin with practical ergonomics and durable materials, catering to the needs of its target audience.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact in Europe

The Peugeot 207 SW (facelift 2009) played a vital role in Peugeot’s strategy for the European market, where the demand for practical, efficient, and compact vehicles with flexible cargo solutions remains consistently high. While it never reached American shores, its impact in its primary operating regions was significant. The 207 SW built upon the strong foundation laid by its predecessor, the 206 SW, and continued Peugeot’s tradition of offering compelling alternatives in the subcompact segment.

Its reputation was largely built on its distinctive styling, which managed to incorporate practicality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. Peugeot cars are often praised for their comfortable ride quality, and the 207 SW was no exception, offering a compliant suspension setup well-suited to varying road conditions across Europe. The 1.6 VTi engine, a product of the collaboration with BMW, further enhanced its appeal by providing a modern, efficient, and adequately powerful option that balanced daily usability with reasonable running costs. This engine partnership was a testament to Peugeot’s drive for technological advancement and efficiency, differentiating it from some competitors.

In the European market, the 207 SW faced stiff competition from a variety of rivals. Key competitors in the B-segment station wagon category included models like the Renault Clio Estate, the Skoda Fabia Combi, and to some extent, the Dacia Logan MCV, each offering their own blend of practicality and value. Other subcompact hatchbacks like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo also vied for market share, though they offered less cargo flexibility. The 207 SW carved out its niche by offering a slightly more premium feel than some budget options, combined with the proven reliability and extensive dealer network of Peugeot.

The historical significance of the 207 SW lies in its contribution to the ongoing evolution of the compact station wagon, a body style that has seen fluctuating fortunes but consistently finds a loyal audience in Europe. It demonstrated Peugeot’s ability to adapt its popular 200-series platform to meet diverse consumer needs, extending the lifecycle and versatility of a successful model line. Its production run from 2009 to 2013 saw it through a period of economic shifts and tightening emission regulations, which it navigated successfully thanks to its efficient powertrains and practical design. Ultimately, the Peugeot 207 SW (facelift 2009) stands as a testament to European automotive engineering, prioritizing sensible design, efficiency, and a comfortable driving experience for its intended market.