The Peugeot 207 (Phase 1, internal code WA for 3-door and WC for 5-door) was introduced in 2006 as the successor to the immensely popular 206. Built on the PSA PF1 platform, it marked a significant shift towards better safety, higher interior quality, and improved acoustic comfort. However, this came at the cost of a substantial weight increase (up to 150 kg heavier than the 206), which blunted the performance of entry-level engines. Reliability during this Phase 1 period is highly polarized. While the older generation 'TU' petrol engines and lower-output 'HDi' diesels proved robust, the introduction of the 'Prince' petrol engines (co-developed with BMW) and the 1.6 HDi 110 hp brought severe mechanical issues, notably concerning timing chains and turbocharger failures. Electrical gremlins
The Peugeot 207 Phase 1 is a car of extremes. If you choose the right engine, it is a safe, comfortable, and excellent handling supermini that still looks relatively modern. The older TU petrol engines (1.4 8v, 1.6 16v) and the lower-powered diesels (1.4 HDi, 1.6 HDi 90) are the ones to buy. However, the early Prince engines (1.4 VTi, 1.6 VTi, 1.6 THP) and the 1.6 HDi 110 are plagued with severe, expensive mechanical flaws. Unless a THP or HDi 110 comes with a massive folder of receipts proving chains, turbos, and frequent oil changes have been addressed, they should be strictly avoided.