The Evolution of Peugeot 605 and Peugeot 607

Peugeot

Introduction

Peugeot, a venerable French automobile manufacturer, has a rich history of producing innovative and stylish vehicles. Among its notable executive sedans are the Peugeot 605 and Peugeot 607, two models that exemplify the company’s efforts to compete in the premium segment during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. This article traces their development, model variants, trim levels, and key features from their inception to discontinuation.

Peugeot 605: The Landmark Executive Sedan (1989–1999)

Introduction and Development

Launched in 1989, the Peugeot 605 was Peugeot’s flagship executive sedan, designed to compete with European rivals like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi 100. The 605 was developed as a successor to the Peugeot 504 and 505 models, incorporating modern styling, advanced engineering, and luxury features.

The 605’s development was a joint project with Mitsubishi Motors, which contributed to its platform and some powertrain components, especially for the Japanese market. It was built primarily in Sochaux, France, with some production in Japan for the Asian markets.

Production Timeline

  • Production Years: 1989 – 1999
  • Final Year of Production: 1999
  • Market Presence: Europe, Asia, Africa, and some parts of South America

Model Variants and Trims

Throughout its decade-long production, the Peugeot 605 was offered in various trim levels, often reflecting the market-specific preferences and regulations. The main variants included:

  • Base/Standard Models: Equipped with essential features, manual transmission, and modest engines.
  • SR/SL/GL: Mid-range trims with added comfort features, power accessories, and upgraded interiors.
  • ST/GT/GR: Top-tier trims offering luxury features, premium audio systems, leather upholstery, and advanced safety options.

Engine Options

The Peugeot 605 offered a range of petrol and diesel engines, tailored to different markets:

Petrol Engines:

  • 2.0-liter TU series: 102–110 hp
  • 2.0-liter V6 (PRV engine): 138 hp
  • 2.9-liter V6 (PRV): 164 hp

Diesel Engines:

  • 1.9-liter XD series: 70–90 hp
  • 2.5-liter XD Turbo: 100–115 hp

The engines were paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission, depending on the variant and market.

Key Features and Highlights

  • Design: Classic executive sedan with a sleek, aerodynamic profile, characterized by smooth lines and a conservative grille.
  • Interior: Spacious, comfortable, with options for leather upholstery, wood trim, and advanced soundproofing.
  • Safety: Equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), airbags (driver and passenger), and optional traction control.
  • Market Reception: Well-regarded for ride comfort and reliability; however, faced stiff competition from German rivals.

Peugeot 607: The Premium Flagship (1999–2010)

Introduction and Development

The Peugeot 607 was introduced in 1999 as Peugeot’s flagship luxury sedan, aiming to challenge established European luxury brands. Designed to embody sophistication and technological innovation, the 607 was built on a new platform shared with the Citroën C6 and was available in both short and long-wheelbase versions.

The 607’s development marked Peugeot’s serious push into the premium segment, emphasizing comfort, advanced features, and a refined driving experience.

Production Timeline

  • Production Years: 1999 – 2010
  • Discontinued: 2010
  • Global Markets: Europe, parts of Asia, Middle East, and Africa

Model Variants and Trim Levels

The Peugeot 607 was offered in several trim levels, primarily distinguished by equipment levels and luxury features:

  • S (Standard): Basic trim with essential features.
  • SV (Standard Plus): Added more comfort and convenience options.
  • SL (Luxury): Top-tier trim with leather interiors, premium audio, and advanced safety features.

In some markets, special editions and packages were available, such as the “Executive” or “Premium” packages, adding further luxury and technological features.

Powertrain Options

The 607 was notable for its range of sophisticated engines, including petrol and diesel options:

Petrol Engines:

  • 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (less common)
  • 2.2-liter inline-4: approximately 133 hp
  • 3.0-liter V6 (PRV engine): 190–211 hp
  • 3.0-liter V6 (later models): 210–211 hp
  • 3.0-liter V6 with LPG conversion options

Diesel Engines:

  • 2.0-liter HDi turbodiesel: 110–136 hp
  • 2.2-liter HDi: 136–170 hp
  • 2.7-liter HDi V6 turbodiesel: 204 hp (introduced later)

Transmission options included 5- and 6-speed manual gearboxes, as well as 4-speed or 6-speed automatic transmissions, depending on the engine.

Design and Innovations

  • Exterior: Elegant, elongated silhouette with a prominent grille and distinctive headlights. The long-wheelbase version featured extended rear passenger space, emphasizing luxury.
  • Interior: Lavishly appointed with leather upholstery, wood veneer trims, and high-quality materials. The interior was designed for comfort, with features like climate control, premium audio systems, and advanced infotainment.
  • Technology: The 607 was equipped with numerous innovative features for its time, including parking sensors, cruise control, electronic stability control (ESP), and optional navigation systems.
  • Safety: Comprehensive safety package including multiple airbags, ABS, traction control, and optional electronic stability systems.

Special Editions and Market Variants

Over its production lifespan, several special editions of the 607 were offered, including:

  • 607 Executive: Focused on luxury and technological features.
  • 607 Premier: Enhanced equipment, exclusive interior options.
  • 607 Sports/GT: Limited editions with sportier trim and suspension tuning.

Different markets sometimes received proprietary packages, reflecting local preferences and regulations.

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Comparative Overview of Peugeot 605 and 607

AspectPeugeot 605 (1989–1999)Peugeot 607 (1999–2010)
SegmentExecutive sedanLuxury flagship sedan
PlatformMitsubishi-developed platformPSA Platform (shared with Citroën C6)
DesignConservative, classic sedanElegant, elongated silhouette
Powertrain Range1.9L to 2.9L petrol/diesel2.0L to 3.0L V6, 2.0L to 2.7L HDi
Production VolumeApprox. 530,000 unitsApprox. 115,000 units
Market FocusEurope, Asia, Africa, South AmericaEurope, Middle East, Asia

Discontinuation and Legacy

The Peugeot 605 was discontinued in 1999 after a decade of service, largely due to declining sales and stiff competition. Despite its solid reputation, it struggled against the German dominance in the executive segment.

The Peugeot 607, introduced in 1999, aimed to elevate Peugeot’s status in the luxury market but faced limited commercial success. Its production ended around 2010, replaced by the Peugeot 508 in the mid-size segment and the 508 SW for estate variants. Nonetheless, both models are now appreciated by enthusiasts and collectors for their engineering, comfort, and unique place in Peugeot’s history.

Conclusion

The Peugeot 605 and Peugeot 607 exemplify the evolution of Peugeot’s approach to the executive and luxury car markets over two decades. The 605 reflected Peugeot’s efforts during the late 20th century to compete with established German brands through design, comfort, and reliability. The 607 represented a shift towards more sophisticated technology, refined styling, and luxury features, signaling Peugeot’s ambitions in the premium segment.

While neither model achieved the widespread success of some rivals, they remain significant milestones in Peugeot’s lineup, appreciated today for their engineering, comfort, and distinctive character.

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