Review: Peugeot 206 160i XT
Peugeot’s newly launched 206 160i XT is just the business for those bent on having a little fun while they run
With four cylinders, 16 valves, 1 587cc, 80kW at 5 800, 147Nm at 4 000rpm, a top speed a tad under 200kph and the ability to hit 100km in about 10,5 seconds means that the little Peugeot is a true pocket-rocket.
The five-door Peugeot is a small car, so space at the back is rather restricted but those up front will find plenty to be pleased about.
At R108 445 it comes standard with power steering, driver’s and passenger’s airbags, electric windows front and rear, remote central locking, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel, air-conditioner, a radio/tape with a steering-stalk control and a huge desire to please.
On the road this little French car thrives on being driven hard. The needle whips around to the 6 300rpm red line and beyond until the rev limiter chips in — acceleration is impressive throughout the range.
Apart from a rather imprecise gear change we found little to spoil a thrilling driving experience.
MacPherson struts with steel wishbones and anti-roll bars keep the handling honest up front and rear axle with trailing arms and anti-roll bar do the same at the rear, giving the car go-kart-like handling. It offers very good performance and comfort in a charismatic package at a very fair price by today’s standards.