Peugeot 406 Review: Elegant Sedan That Stood the Test of Time

Did you know the Peugeot 406 served as a taxi in cities like Paris for over a decade, racking up millions of miles while charming passengers with its smooth ride? Launched in 1995, this mid-size sedan blended French sophistication with practical performance, selling over 2.8 million units globally and earning praise for its reliability. Whether you’re scouting Peugeot 406 for sale or dreaming of a Peugeot 406 modified project, this classic offers timeless appeal for enthusiasts and budget buyers alike. Its V6 variants still turn heads, proving the Peugeot 406 price remains a steal for quality engineering.

Sleek Silhouette: Exterior Elegance with a Touch of Flair

The Peugeot 406’s design language flows with aerodynamic grace, featuring rounded lines, a prominent grille, and halogen headlights that give it a premium, executive vibe. Its 4.6-meter length and coupe-like roofline create first impressions of understated luxury, especially in the stylish coupe version. Modified versions often sport aftermarket wheels and lowered suspensions, enhancing its sporty edge.

Ever seen a sedan that looks this refined without trying too hard? The rust-resistant bodywork holds up well, contributing to strong resale value. In real-world sightings, it glides through traffic like a well-tailored suit on the road.

Luxurious Lounge: Interior Comfort That Invites Long Journeys

Settling into the Peugeot 406’s cabin feels like entering a cozy French bistro, with plush velour or leather seats and ample space for five. The dashboard’s ergonomic layout includes a simple analog cluster and optional wood accents for a touch of class. Infotainment comes via a basic radio/CD setup, but modern mods add Bluetooth for seamless connectivity.

Rhetorically, why settle for bland when this interior wraps you in comfort? Rear legroom impresses for family trips, while the trunk swallows 430 liters easily. Test drives reveal a quiet ride that masks its age beautifully.

• Seating Perks: Adjustable fronts with lumbar support and fold-down rears for versatility.
• Tech Touches: Climate control and power windows in higher trims.
• Storage Solutions: Deep door pockets and a spacious glovebox for everyday needs.

Dynamic Drive: Performance Tuned for Everyday Thrills

Under the hood, the Peugeot 406 shines with engine choices like the punchy 3.0-liter V6 in the Peugeot 406 V6, delivering 190 horsepower for effortless highway merges. Front-wheel drive pairs with a five-speed manual or four-speed auto, offering responsive handling from its double-wishbone setup. Ride comfort absorbs potholes smoothly, blending sedan poise with subtle sportiness.

Hit the accelerator, and you’ll feel a smooth surge of power that makes overtaking a breeze, especially in modified tunes pushing extra torque. Experts from Auto Express note its balanced chassis rivals contemporaries for driver engagement. Is the Peugeot 406 reliable? Owners report yes, with many taxis exceeding 500,000 km on original engines.

Thrifty Travels: Fuel Economy That Keeps Costs in Check

What is the fuel economy of the Peugeot 406? Diesel models average 45-50 mpg in real-world mixed driving, while the V6 petrol sips about 25-30 mpg, making it practical for commuters. Expect consistent figures on long hauls, thanks to efficient turbo diesels that dominated taxi fleets. Buyers can anticipate low running costs, especially with well-maintained units.

It’s like a dependable workhorse that rewards careful driving. For EV range fans, its hybrid-free era contrasts with modern Peugeots, but efficiency holds strong.

Protected Passage: Safety Features That Aged Gracefully

The Peugeot 406 earned solid safety ratings for its time, with a four-star Euro NCAP score bolstered by ABS, dual airbags, and reinforced side impacts. Driver-assist tech includes traction control in later models, while smart elements like stability-focused ESP add confidence. Most overlook this hidden gem, but its sturdy frame shines in crash tests.

For taxis, the Peugeot 406 taxi’s durability proved its mettle in urban chaos. Upgrades like aftermarket cameras enhance older models today.

Variants and Value: Pricing Options for Every Enthusiast

Scouring Peugeot 406 for sale? Used prices start at $2,000 for base sedans, climbing to $8,000 for pristine V6 or coupe examples, offering unbeatable affordability. Trims range from entry-level SR to luxurious SV, with modified versions adding custom flair. Value stems from cheap parts and high reliability, boosting resale appeal.

• SR Trim: Basic diesel efficiency for budget commuters.
• ST Trim: Added comfort and alloys for daily drivers.
• V6 Coupe: Premium power and style for enthusiasts.

Check detailed history on Peugeot 406 Wikipedia page.

Wins and Wobbles: A Fair Assessment of the 406

This sedan has plenty of charm, but it’s not flawless. Let’s break it down honestly.

Pros:

• Smooth performance and handling for engaging drives.
• Impressive fuel efficiency, especially in diesel form.
• Spacious, comfortable interior with strong reliability.
• Affordable pricing and solid resale value for classics.

Cons:

• Electrical gremlins in high-mileage units.
• Limited modern tech without modifications.
• V6 thirstier than efficient rivals.

Rivals Roundup: Standing Tall Against the Competition

How does the Peugeot 406 compare to the Volkswagen Passat or Ford Mondeo? It matches the Passat’s refinement but edges out in ride comfort, while offering better value than the Mondeo’s thirstier engines. Against the Renault Laguna, the 406’s build quality and V6 option give it a prestige boost.

For high-octane thrills, explore the innovative Peugeot 9X8, or reminisce with the agile Peugeot 205. Car and Driver retrospectives highlight the 406’s superior elegance over boxier peers.

Have you ever wondered how this car stacks up against its rivals? Here’s where it truly shines: effortless sophistication on a dime.

Perfect Profile: Who Makes the Ideal Peugeot 406 Owner?

The Peugeot 406 fits classic car lovers seeking reliable daily drivers, taxi operators valuing durability, or modifiers turning heads with custom builds. Commuters appreciate its efficiency, while families enjoy the space sans SUV bulk. Off-roaders? Look elsewhere, but urban explorers and budget enthusiasts will adore its versatility.

If you’re handy with tweaks or crave French charm, this sedan’s your match.

Final Thoughts: Verdict on the Enduring Peugeot 406

In essence, the Peugeot 406 captivates with elegant design, versatile performance, and proven reliability, though electrical quirks require attention. Its weaknesses pale against affordability and charm. If you’re eyeing a Peugeot 406 for sale or a modified gem, it’s absolutely worth buying, inspiring a test drive or restoration project to rediscover its magic.

For more insights, browse MotorTrend’s Peugeot 406 retrospective and hunt deals.