Model tested: Peugeot 206 1.6 HDi GTi
Price: £13,770
Date tested: March 2009
Road tester: Richard Dredge

Overall rating: 72%
It was never going to be easy replacing the 205, but Peugeot did its best. Few warmed to the 206 like they did to its predecessor though, because the 205 really was exceptional.

1: Looks
Peugeot's family look translates well whatever the car. The pert 206 looks good from any angle, thanks to its sleek headlamps, rounded rump and a well balanced profile.
8/10

2: Looks inside
The 206's cabin fit and finish is easily beaten elsewhere, and not just among costlier rivals. However, occasionally naff plastics aside, the 206's interior is ergonomically sound and well stocked – and it looks good too.
6/10

3: Practicality
The 206 hatch offers up to 1130 litres of carrying capacity with the seats down, but just 245 litres with them up. There's plenty of cabin space, but if you fancy something sporty (XSi or GTi) there's no five-door option.
7/10

4:Ride and Handling
The French have always been adept at creating comfortable cars, and the 206 is no exception. The short wheelbase doesn't help, but Peugeot's engineers have done a pretty good job. The trade off is so-so handling.
7/10

5: Performance
The 1.6HDi can muster 110bhp and a stonking 180lb ft of torque, to give a top speed of 118mph and a 0-60mph time of 10.6 seconds; drive more gently and 60mpg is within reach.
8/10

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6: Running costs
One of the 206's strongest points is its low running costs, especially when you consider how cheap these cars are. Aside from some high insurance ratings for the sportiest editions it's good news all the way.
8/10

7: Reliability
Subject to a worrying 10 recalls, the 206 can suffer from electronic management systems giving trouble with automatic gearboxes, indicator stalks breaking and engine mountings failing, plus wear of the lower ball joint in the front suspension.
3/10

8: Safety
Safety features include anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and hazard light activation if the car is braked very hard. There are also twin front airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, rear and side airbags and three-point seatbelts for those in the rear. There's also a four-star EuroNCAP score.
9/10

9: Equipment
Even entry-levels 206s get electric windows in the front, central locking plus a CD/tuner. Most cars also have alloy wheels plus air conditioning or climate control.
8/10

10: X-Factor
Peugeot has sold more 206s than any other car in its history, and it's not hard to see why. Cheap to buy and run, practical and well equipped, the 206 makes a lot of sense on many levels.
8/10