With forebears like the iconic 205 GTi and impressive 206 GTi, the hottest 207 had a lot to live up to. With the 207 being a far more refined, expensive and somewhat ‘softened’ car, we were expecting to be disappointed.

Yet somehow Peugeot has managed to get the package so incredibly right with this little car. A very competitive price tag starting at just under R200K and a brilliant little engine are what make this car so surprisingly appealing.

Let’s start with the most important bit. Beneath the bonnet lies that award-winning 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged petrol mill that PSA developed in conjunction with BMW — thus the same unit you’ll find in the Mini range. A true modern-age engine, it’s both punchy and flexible, yet frugal. The twin-scroll turbo also keeps pull-off lag to an absolute minimum.

Not just about straight-line performance, the GTi is also nimble around corners, as our lap time proves, and rides rather comfortably too. From an enthusiast’s perspective it is, however, let down by steering and gearshift action that just feels too soft.

Despite offering so much in the way of performance for the money, Peugeot hasn’t skimped on the luxury and safety aspects on this car. Sink inside and you’ll be impressed by its well-bolstered, and highly supportive bucket seats, various aluminium trimmings spread throughout the cabin and an abundance of luxury features, including dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, sensor-activated automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, directional headlamps, rear parking assist and much more.

The safety aspect is well-taped too, with a protective structure that earned it a five-star EuroNCAP rating as well as front, side and curtain-shield airbags, the latter also covering rear passengers. A host of electronic traction and stability control systems, including Understeer Control Logic, aid active safety.

The 207 GTi distinguishes itself with 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and chrome mirrors and tail pipes, but it’s not altogether flashy. Its frontal styling, with that huge gaping grille upfront will not be to everyone’s liking, it certainly divided opinion at this office.

With value, strong performance and ample comfort on its side, Peugeot’s 207 GTi was bound to be a strong contender in this year’s contest — but can it overcome the overwhelmingly strong hot hatch competition among this mob? You’ll have to wait and see…

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