The new Peugeot 407 – with its bold, purposeful design and superb engineering – has set a new standard within the segment and is proving to be a popular choice with UK buyers. Now, the range is further strengthened with the introduction of the versatile SW model – a rakish 5-door estate that offers practicality without sacrificing style.
With a panoramic glass roof as standard, flexible interior packaging and all the outstanding dynamic qualities of the saloon, Brightness and visibility.
One of the main special features of the SW is its panoramic glass roof. The large glass roof endows the passenger compartment with space and light, creating an ambience that is open to the outside, yet also warm and intimate.
An electric blind, consisting of four overlapping panels, folds back discreetly at the rear of the roof. Light can therefore flood into the car, or be partially or completely obscured. It is controlled by a nine-position rotary switch and includes a safety auto-reverse function. The 407 SW should prove highly popular with prices from as little as £15,850.
The 407 SW has dual halogen headlamp units, supplemented by fog lights in the lower bumper skirt. As an option, xenon headlamps can be combined with an automatic headlamp levelling control and headlamp wash unit.
Most models have an automatic headlamp function, whereby the dipped beam is switched on when the exterior light reduces such as, at nightfall or when entering a tunnel.
A “follow-me-home” system keeps the dipped beam switched on for a short time after the ignition is turned off, to provide greater convenience for passengers in darkness. This feature, according to versions, is either automatic or can be activated manually by means of the headlamp switch.
The 407 SW is also equipped with “butterfly” windscreen wipers each with its own motor. The supple, extra-flat wiper blades are 700 mm long and follow the special curve of the windscreen in every detail, ensuring maximum visibility. The layout also ensures that when the wipers are “parked” they are particularly discreet.
Most models have an automatic windscreen wiper function with a rain sensor, coupled with the automatic headlamp function. Basic versions have a three-speed intermittent wipe function linked to the speed of the vehicle.
Available on many versions, an anti-glare interior rear-view mirror incorporating the latest-generation electrochrome technology makes night time rear vision even more comfortable, by automatically darkening if necessary.
The tinted door mirrors are all electrically adjusted and can also be folded back electrically, either by means of the interior switch, or by remote control. On some versions the selection of reverse gear automatically tilts the mirror glass down to give an enhanced view of the kerb and rear wheel to facilitate parking manoeuvres. Lastly, on some models, their position can be memorised and recalled by means of the remote control or a button, as is the case for the driver’s seat and steering column.
A parking assistance system is available as an option and is able to detect an object or a person in the car’s path while reversing thanks to four ultrasonic sensors discreetly positioned in the rear bumper.
Similarly, on some versions, both front seats can be equipped with electrical adjustments and heating with individual temperature controls. Lastly, the ultimate convenience, the driver’s seat on some versions can be equipped with a position memory and remote-controlled recall of settings. These include the position of the seat, the door mirrors and the steering column, which is raised as required making it easier to get into and out of the driver’s seat.
On all 407 SWs the front passenger seat is “modular”. Its seat back can thus be folded horizontally against the seat cushion. Combined with the folding rear seats, this makes available a total length of 2700 mm (from the inside of the tail gate to the glove box lid), extremely useful for the occasional transportation of very long and bulky objects, while preserving room for two people in the car.
At the rear, the absence of a transmission tunnel ensures generous seating dimensions for passengers. The rear seats provide excellent support without ever sacrificing comfort. Their seat cushions and seat backs are divided 2/3-1/3, and can be folded down to modulate the available space. Their seat cushions can also be removed easily to provide even more space as and when required.
Available as standard or as an option according to versions, a ski flap allows the transportation of very long objects with four occupants, without the need to fold down the seat back. It can be accessed from inside the passenger compartment to facilitate loading.
Everything that can enhance comfort and practicality has been given careful thought and attention. For example, ingenious storage areas are available to occupants throughout the passenger compartment: the fascia panel has a lockable and illuminated glove box, the contents of which can also be air conditioned (thumbwheel control). Its lid, equipped with a new pneumatic soft-closing system, is more convenient to use and features integral storage areas, such as a spectacle holder, a pen holder, a remote control holder, etc.
The 407’s air conditioning system is available in two versions – one with single zone distribution reserved for basic models, the other with dual zone distribution (with separate LH and RH temperature and distribution settings). The latter is combined with a bi-directional sunlight sensor, which smoothes out the effects of temporary exposure to strong sunlight or passage through a tunnel. Regardless of the type of air conditioning, vents at either end of the central console take the needs of rear passengers into account.
All information concerning the air conditioning appears on the multifunction display unit at the top of the instrument panel.
Like the saloon, the 407 SW can be equipped with an RD4 mono CD car radio with an output of 4x15 W and six speakers, incorporating a dual tuner and a dual antenna with a diversity system.
Visit Peugeot online: www.peugeot.com
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