Peugeot 207 Economique

These days it’s almost mandatory for a major car manufacturer to have a sub-brand offering models that achieve excellent fuel economy and emissions below 100g/km. The Peugeot 207 Oxygo is the French firm’s entry into the field, which is good for 74.3mpg and has emissions of 98g/km. The 207 features a bag of tricks to achieve this, including an efficient 1.6-litre diesel engine, long gear ratios, aerodynamic changes to reduce drag and low rolling resistance tyres. There are two trim options with this package within the 207 range – Oxgo and Oxygo+. Both have special aerodynamic 15-inch steel wheels with plastic trims, so they don’t look very glamorous, but come with electronic stability control that’s an option on other 207s. The standard Oxygo model has been stripped of air conditioning, and it’s not available as an option. Instead you have to upgrade to Oxygo+, which also has a trip computer, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, Bluetooth and a USB port. But it costs around £1,450 more, which is a big step.

Good points

Peugeot is justifiably proud of its diesels for their smoothness, performance and economy. With the special tricks employed for the Oxygo model, the 1.6 HDi under the bonnet is as powerful as a standard 1.6 HDi, but it’s 7mpg more efficient. With an 11-gallon tank, you can theoretically go around 800 miles between fill-ups. The car is a pleasure to drive thanks to its smooth power delivery, comfortable suspension and sharp responses. It’s nicely trimmed and reasonably equipped, and like any 207 it’s one of the smartest-looking small cars around.

Bad points

High-economy, low-emissions eco specials like the 207 Oxygo are largely wasted on UK buyers, because our taxation structure means you’ll go largely unrewarded for choosing one. There’ll be no road tax to pay and you’ll be exempt from the Congestion Charge if you go into London on weekdays, but you’ll pay the same 13% rate of company car tax as you would with a regular 207 powered by the 1.6 HDI engine. Oxygo+ is expensive at more than £14,000 and Oxygo isn’t available with air conditioning, so you’ve a tough choice to make between cost and comfort if you do decide to buy one. Rear-seat legroom is far from generous and resale values are comparatively poor, too.

What you get

• Folding rear seats
• Passenger & Driver airbag
• Front side airbags
• Front fog lights
• Height adjustable driver's seat
• Front electric windows
• Single CD player

Recommended optional extras

• Metallic paint

Our choice

A 1.6-litre diesel is the only engine available. Go for Oxygo rather than the better-equipped but expensive Oxygo+.