Review
New for 2004 is a 16-valve version of the 1.4-litre petrol engine offering 90bhp, while automatic models (the eight-valve 1.4-litre and the 1.6-litre) are now available with a Tiptronic shift system.
The one I was most interested in was the 16-valve 1.4, however, as with two distinct lines in the 206 range (Classic and Sports) it gave me the chance to see what the 206 could offer in the 'warm hatch' sector. The engine offers variable valve timing to improve efficiency and 90% of its maximum torque is available from 2,000rpm.
Cars in the Sports range, like the XSi tested, have deeper mesh grilles below the front bumper and our test car was finished in optional red and black leather.
I have spent several thousand miles behind the wheels of various Peugeot 206 models over the years and still haven't found a driving position I could feel really comfortable with. Either the steering wheel is too far away or my legs are too close to the pedals.
However, the frisky 16-valve motor drew my attention away from my discomfort as I discovered this version of the car is good fun to drive. The exhaust note has a raw edge to it at higher revs and the sharp handling will evoke some memories of the much-loved 205.
##206Sport04--none##
There is plenty of grip (Sports line cars have wider tyres than Classic line, hence the higher fuel consumption and CO2 emissions) and the steering allows you to point the car exactly where you want it.
The 206 has a couple of years left to run, but the new engine fills a gap in the range and with SW models also offers more choice for drivers.
Model: Peugeot 206 1.4 16-valve
Engine (cc): 1,360
Max power (bhp/rpm): 90/5,250
Max torque (lb-ft/rpm): 100/3,250
Max speed (mph): 111
0-62mph (sec): 10.9 (SW: 11.5)
Fuel consumption (mpg): 46.3 (Quiksilver: 43.5)
CO2 emissions (g/km): 145 (155)
Fuel tank capacity (l/gal): 45/9.9
Service interval (miles): 20,000
Transmission: 5-sp man
On sale: Now
Price: From £10,113
Rick Hough - 14/12/2016 08:41
I just bought a ten year old, 60k mile, example of the 206 Sport 2 door, 1.4 16v in Aegean Blue for my son to learn to drive. It has disc brakes all round and ABS, sporty suspension and a alloy wheels. I'd forgotten how good these cars are, and having fitted a set of Pagid discs and pads with new Pirelli Cinturato tyres, replaced a weepy radiator and given the car a full service, it's running like a good 'un. The car is light but feels planted unless you are really pushing it, when the car gives you plenty of warning long before it all goes horribly wrong. It feels like a 205 GTi (I drove one in period), but one that has been screwed together properly. Even at this age there are no electrical faults, and I'm getting 45 mpg (mostly motorway driving). There is no corrosion anywhere and the paint gleams. Only the bonnet is showing a very slight change in colour. You need good eyes to see it though. I also own two Peugeot 407 Coupes, a Citroen C5 load lugger and a 1972 MG Midget, and I think for short to medium distances and around town the 206 is my favourite ride, unless the rain has stopped long enough to drag the MG from it's heated garage. Anyone considering a 206 I would say go get one. It may not be a comfy long distance cruiser but if you want to zip through the traffic it has all the power you need plus the handling to exploit that power. Parts and servicing are also very, very cheap, even if you use a garage. Try £200 for a cam belt, tensioners, and water pump, £35 for an aluminium radiator, or under £100 for a complete set of quality brake discs and pads. It is also a doddle to work on as there is plenty of space around all components.