Used Peugeot 206 SW 1998 - 2009 review

The main reason the 206 hatchback proved so popular was its chic look, but unfortunately, the same can't be said of the Peugeot 206 SW. The cute appearance has been lost in the transition to estate car, but sadly, most of the hatchback's shortcomings weren't.

The worst thing is the driving position. Many drivers will find it totally impossible to get comfy because of the odd positioning of the driver's seat relative to the steering wheel. The cabin isn't particularly spacious, either, and the interior design is dowdy compared to some rivals.

Then again, it isn't all doom and gloom. As well as providing a well-shaped boot, the estate also provides better headroom for rear passengers. It's cheap to buy, too, and if you pick the right engine it's cheap to run.

On top of that, the chassis is nimble and still manages to provide a supple ride at all but low speeds. However, there's too much road noise and the smaller engines aren't refined enough at speed.

Here lies the 206's big strength. You can pick one up for peanuts, and the estate version will cost you only a little bit more than the five-door hatchback version.

Fuel economy is pretty good as well. All but the 2.0-litre petrol will deliver at least 40mpg on average, while both the diesel engines will deliver upwards of 50mpg.

Insurance costs aren't bad.

The 206 SW will cost you a good deal less to service than the equivalent Ford Fiesta, and if you take it to an independent garage rather than a Peugeot franchised dealer the hourly rates will be almost halved.

You're best off with the 110bhp 1.6 HDi engine, which is powerful and punchy. However, this appeared only in later cars.

If you're considering an earlier model then plump for the 2.0 HDi. You only get 90bhp, but that's better than you'll get from most of the petrol engines in the range, and it's enough to make decent progress while still giving good fuel economy.

Don't bother with the 1.1 or 1.4 petrol engines - they're just too slow. The 1.6 and 2.0 petrols are much better, but the diesel gives more low-down punch and better running costs. There's also a 1.4 diesel - it's not bad, but you'll enjoy yourself more with the bigger diesel.

Low-spec models don't get that much in the way of kit, especially in early cars, but XT trim will give you all you need.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here