An even keener package
- Latest update introduces clean, sophisticated styling language
- Thrifty three-cylinder petrol engine now even more frugal
- Updated interior reflects a smarter approach with updated trim
- Only car in its segment with five-year full maintenance Plan
The ultracompact Peugeot 107 has been a recognised trend setter in the local passenger car market since its initial launch in 2006 – and its newly announced, updated guise, that trend-setting tradition continues in no uncertain terms.
It might be the smallest member of Peugeot’s passenger car line-up, but the newly refreshed 107 has some very big news when it comes to cost of ownership: it is the only car in its class to offer a full five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan, in addition to a five-year/100 000 km warranty.
Full maintenance plans are usually the preserve of premium cars only, but Peugeot has emphasised its commitment to the South African market by introducing a five-year/100 000 km full maintenance plan, in addition to a five-year/100 000 km warranty, across its entire passenger car range.
The maintenance plan is only one facet of the newly revised 107. The ultracompact has always been considered something of a pioneer on the local market, as it was one of the very few ultracompacts to challenge SA market perceptions when it first introduced.
However, it didn’t take long for the 107 to win the hearts of local motorists, thanks to its combination of dynamic zip, surprisingly spacious interior, five-door practicality and frugal appetite for unleaded fuel.
Its local popularity has been underscored by an international success story that has seen more than 665 000 examples sold worldwide thus far. The 107 is now sold in 48 countries around the globe.
While the number of ultracompact contenders in the SA car market has grown substantially in the past six years, the ever growing demand for more compact, more fuel efficient cars, especially in the urban context, has increased dramatically.
As a result, the Peugeot 107 is more relevant in the current automotive climate than ever before. Its ongoing appeal has been boosted by an ongoing series of improvements and enhancements that have kept the little French hatchback at the forefront of its segment.
Substantially facelifted in 2009, the 107 has now undergone a further, significant update. The changes encompass a new styling package for the front end, while the interior benefits from a revised trim package and an improved sound system with a wider range of connectivity options.
Last but not least, the 1,0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine has undergone several refinements to further enhance its already legendary fuel efficiency and low emissions.
A fresh face
The front end of the new 107 has been completely redesigned to reflect the latest styling trends of the Peugeot marque. The result places a greater emphasis on sophistication, whilst retaining the hatchback’s cheeky, youthful character.
The more pronounced profile of the all-new bonnet features a central spar that focuses the attention on the raised Peugeot Lion emblem. Extended front headlights further emphasis the cleaner, more elegant front appearance.
This is echoed by an all-new radiator grille that features a honeycomb design specifically created for the 107. The intake apertures are slimmer and more subtle than before, while the number plate holder is now mounted higher, above the lower air intake.
In the case of the more upmarket Trendy model, the new front look is rounded off by the inclusion of LED daytime running lights that emphasise the side protector profiles. The Trendy version is also fitted with recessed fog lamps embellished by chrome detailing. The rear styling remains unchanged.
A more inviting interior
Those unfamiliar with the 107 will be pleasantly surprised by the intelligent packaging, which creates a capacious and inviting interior, with easy seating for four adults. The five-door body shell also ensures convenient access to the rear bench seat.
The updated 107 sports a fresher, more appealing colour scheme with revised cloth upholstery and new dashboard trim. The latter is now finished entirely in a smart, black hue, which adds both class and refinement to the interior ambience.
The centre console is home to an all-new sound system that no only looks good, but sounds good, too, and offers a CD player with MP3 compatibility. In the case of the Trendy model, the system also includes Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and a USB slot for flash drives.
The space-efficient layout remains unchanged, with a split rear bench seat allowing for simple extension of the luggage compartment when required. A full-size spare remains standard, and is located under the boot floor.
A more frugal engine
At face value, the latest Peugeot 107’s drivetrain appears unchanged. The engine under the bonnet is the familiar 998 cc three-cylinder unit, and the output statistics remain at 50 kW of maximum power at 6 000 r/min, linked to a torque peak of 93 Nm at 3 600 r/min. The gearbox is still a five-speed manual gearbox, and drive remains to the front wheels.
However, the good news is that the compact mill has become even more frugal than before. Combined cycle fuel consumption drops from the previous 4,6 l/100 km to just 4,3 l/100 km. At the same time, CO2 exhaust emissions have been further reduced, and at just 99 g/km, now dip below the 100 g/km mark.
The new figures indicate that the Peugeot 107 has an operating range, in mixed driving conditions, of about 800 km from its 35-litre fuel tank, which could increase to as much as 900 km in open-road cruising mode.
Priced for value
While the changes to the Peugeot 107 herald both stronger visual appeal and an even more economical motoring experience, the one aspect that has remained unchanged is the price.
The two Peugeot 107 models – the Urban and the Trendy – will carry exactly the same price tags as before.
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107 Urban R116 500
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107 Trendy R127 900
As mentioned, the prices include a five-year/100 000 km warranty, and a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan as standard.
