The Peugeot 406 Break, specifically the Phase II model produced from 1999 to 2004, represents a significant offering in the European mid-size station wagon (estate) segment. This iteration of the 406, powered by a 1.8-liter 16-valve engine producing 116 horsepower, was designed to appeal to families and individuals requiring a practical and comfortable vehicle with ample cargo space. While not officially sold in the United States, the 406 Break was a popular choice in Europe for its blend of style, affordability, and functionality. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Renault Laguna Estate.
Peugeot 406 Break: A Detailed Overview
The 406 Break Phase II built upon the success of the original 406, introducing subtle styling revisions and improvements to the interior and mechanical components. The “Break” designation signifies the station wagon body style, offering a larger and more versatile cargo area compared to the sedan version. The Phase II updates included refinements to the engine management system and minor cosmetic changes, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. The 1.8 i 16V engine was a mainstay of the 406 range, providing a balance between fuel economy and adequate power for everyday driving.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 1999 Peugeot 406 Break 1.8 i 16V is a 1.8-liter (1749 cm3) inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated 6FZ EW7J4, utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It produces a maximum power output of 116 horsepower (86.4 kW) at 5500 rpm and a torque of 163 Newton-meters (120.22 lb.-ft.) at 4500 rpm. This configuration results in a power-to-liter ratio of 66.3 hp/l. The engine’s performance translates to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.4 seconds and a top speed of 193 km/h (119.92 mph). The 0-60 mph acceleration is calculated at 11.8 seconds. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The weight-to-power ratio is 11.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.4 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 406 Break is a five-door, five-seat station wagon characterized by its sleek and aerodynamic design. The Phase II model features a refined exterior with subtle changes to the front grille, headlights, and bumpers. The interior is designed with practicality and comfort in mind, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. A key feature of the Break is its generous trunk (boot) space, ranging from a minimum of 525 liters (18.54 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1740 liters (61.45 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety features for the era included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The suspension system consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent multi-link spring suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and stable handling. The steering is rack and pinion with hydraulic power assistance. The vehicle rides on 15-inch wheels with 195/65 R15 tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 406 |
| Generation | 406 Break (Phase II, 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 i 16V (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg / 26.2 UK mpg / 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg / 45.6 UK mpg / 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 163 Nm @ 4500 rpm (120.22 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 6FZ EW7J4 |
| Engine displacement | 1749 cm3 (106.73 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.7 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2015 kg (4442.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 525 l (18.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1740 l (61.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4736 mm (186.46 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Height | 1502 mm (59.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear track | 1492 mm (58.74 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.67 m (38.29 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Peugeot 406 Break Phase II, with its 1.8 i 16V engine, offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, comfortable, and stylish station wagon. While never officially available in the US market, it remains a well-regarded vehicle known for its reliability and versatility.
