The Peugeot 406 Coupe, particularly the Phase II iteration produced from 2003 to 2005, represents a distinctive offering in the personal coupe segment. While never officially sold in the United States, the 406 Coupe was a popular choice in Europe for drivers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and relatively affordable grand tourer. The Phase II models, like the 2.2 16V variant detailed here, benefited from refinements to the original design, enhancing both aesthetics and mechanical reliability. This model aimed to provide a balance between performance, practicality, and French flair, competing with vehicles like the Ford Cougar and the Renault Megane Coupe.
Peugeot 406 Coupe (Phase II): A Detailed Overview
The 406 Coupe distinguished itself with its Pininfarina-designed body, a collaboration that resulted in a sleek and elegant profile. The Phase II updates included subtle styling revisions, improved interior materials, and enhancements to the engine management system. The 2.2 16V engine was a key component of the 406 Coupe’s appeal, offering a respectable level of performance for its time. It was positioned as a more premium offering within the 406 range, emphasizing style and driving experience over outright practicality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2003 Peugeot 406 Coupe 2.2 16V is a naturally aspirated, 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated the 3FZ EW12J4. This engine produces 158 horsepower at 5,650 rpm and 217 Nm (160.05 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3,900 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for efficient combustion and a broad powerband. Power per liter is rated at 70.8 hp/l.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.4 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 218 km/h (135.46 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 8.6 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6.3 kg/Nm contribute to a reasonably responsive driving experience. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg) combined, with 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg) in urban conditions and 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) on the open road. CO2 emissions are rated at 210 g/km, meeting Euro 3 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 406 Coupe is a two-door, four-seater coupe characterized by its flowing lines and elegant proportions. The Pininfarina design emphasizes a long hood, a sloping roofline, and a short rear deck. The Phase II models received minor cosmetic updates, including revised headlights and taillights, and updated interior trim. The interior is designed to be comfortable and driver-focused, with supportive seats and a well-laid-out dashboard.
Standard features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic power steering, and ventilated front disc brakes with disc brakes in the rear. The suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent multi-link system at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling. The vehicle rides on 215/55 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch wheels. Trunk space is a practical 390 liters (13.77 cu. ft.). The fuel tank capacity is 70 liters (18.49 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 406 |
| Generation | 406 Coupe (Phase II, 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 16V (158 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 210 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 158 Hp @ 5650 rpm |
| Torque | 217 Nm @ 3900 rpm (160.05 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 3FZ EW12J4 |
| Engine displacement | 2231 cm3 (136.14 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 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 | 1359 kg (2996.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 541 kg (1192.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4615 mm (181.69 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1350 mm (53.15 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Front overhang | 985 mm (38.78 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 930 mm (36.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.95 m (39.21 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, 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 |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Peugeot 406 Coupe Phase II 2.2 16V remains a desirable vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a stylish and engaging driving experience. Its blend of French design, respectable performance, and relative affordability has ensured its continued appeal in the used car market.
