Since its UK launch in 1996, the 406 has been acclaimed for its exceptional levels of
comfort and road holding and is the winner of virtually every major motoring award.
In updating the car, Peugeot have been careful to preserve those qualities which have
made it such a success.
New Styling
At the front, the bonnet now has more pronounced contour lines which link to the
totally smooth elongated headlights. The rear is characterised by an elegantly curved boot
lid and ruby red rear light clusters split horizontally by a body coloured strip.
The estate models inherit the new front identity while retaining its original rear
lines, now enhanced with chrome trim on the tailgate.
All 406 models gain new wheel trims or alloy wheel designs.
Inside, a new dashboard houses chrome-encircled dials and a redesigned central façade.
A new four-spoke steering wheel, door trims, door pockets and redesigned seats provide
greater comfort and convenience.
An integral LCD screen is available for optional on board satellite navigation and the
radio and ventilation controls are more practical.
New Engines
The new Peugeot 406 in conjunction with the 206 GTi sees the launch of a new generation
of lighter more efficient petrol engines coded EW.
The first of these, a 1997cc capacity, 16 valve engine with a power output of 137 bhp
at 6,000 rpm, will be fitted in the 406 range.
A choice of 1.8 litre and 3.0 litre V6 petrol engines will also be available.
A new generation of Peugeot diesel engines, the HDi direct injection common rail
diesel, appeared in the 406 last year.
This 110 bhp diesel engine is now joined by another 2.0 litre HDi engine but giving 90
bhp at 4000 rpm.
It will replace the current indirect injection engine and means that the new 406 Turbo
Diesel range is powered exclusively by high pressure direct injection diesel.
Safety
Already well equipped with many active and passive safety features, the new 406 will
offer even greater strength and occupant safety.
The bumpers have been redesigned and bring the overall length of the saloon to 4.59
metres or an increase of 4.3 cm.
ABS and combined Electronic Brake Force Distributors (EBFD) are fitted as standard and
the foot wells have been strengthened for improved impact protection.
The passenger front airbag can now be disarmed with a key.
On Sale
The new Peugeot 406 range will go on sale in the UK in April. Prices to be announced.
Other New Peugeots at the Geneva Show:
Alongside the new Peugeot 406 range at Geneva will be two other new Peugeot models due
to go on sale in the UK later this year.
306 HDi
The first is the 306 HDi.
This will be the world debut for a 306 equipped with Peugeot’s direct injection
diesel engine.
The revolutionary diesel engine brings the benefits of lower fuel consumption, fewer
exhaust emissions and a smoother drive to Peugeot’s award winning hatch back and
estate car range.
The car will be available in the UK from April.
206 GTi
First shown at the Paris and Birmingham Motor Shows last year, the 206 GTi (badged S16
in France) will also be on display in Geneva prior to its UK launch in the summer.
Powered by a new 2.0 litre, 16-valve petrol engine developing 137 bhp, the discretely
styled 206 GTi is the most eagerly awaited Peugeot for many years.
