Peugeot 406 1999–2005 car dimensions: 4600 mm long, 1765 mm wide and 1415 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,315 kg. Braked towing is 1,500 kg.
The cabin has a redesigned dashboard with chrome-ringed dials and a multi-function LCD screen showing trip data, radio info, time and outside temperature. Climate control with digital display is standard on mid and higher trims such as GLX, S, SE and Executive, and optional on base L models. Cruise control is available on higher trims and most HDi versions. Front seats offer height and lumbar adjustment on all models, with electric adjustment and memory on top trims. Rear seats are 60/40 split-folding with a ski flap. No factory parking sensors, cameras or electronic lane/collision aids appear in the equipment lists.
Boot volume is 430 litres with seats up. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats and ski flap let you carry longer items while retaining some rear seating. The raised parcel shelf improves usable height for upright suitcases.
Braked towing capacity reaches 1500 kg on most engines, with unbraked figures around 750 kg. Payload is typically 450-540 kg depending on version and kerb weight. The multi-link rear suspension and pressurised dampers give a comfortable ride for everyday family or light towing use.
The cabin feels refined and supportive for long drives. Seats have a geometric design for better leg support, with height adjustment on the driver's seat across the range, base tilt on most models and lumbar support on all. Higher grades add multi-way electric front seats with memory and leather trim, plus heated fronts. Climate control with digital display is standard from mid grades, and improved armrests plus better sound insulation keep the interior quiet and practical with cupholders and a multi-function screen.
Petrol combined fuel use from 8.3 l/100 km on 2.0 16V models
HDi diesel mixed cycle from 5.5 l/100 km
Service every 30 000 km or 2 years for petrol, 20 000 km or 2 years for direct-injection diesel
Euro NCAP adult occupant rating of 3 stars on 2001 models
Standard ABS with electronic brake force distribution
Standard dual front airbags plus front side airbags covering head and thorax
Fuel economy varies by engine. The 2.0-litre 16-valve petrol returns 8.3 l/100 km on the mixed cycle with a 70-litre tank. HDi diesels achieve around 5.5 l/100 km mixed, cutting CO2 and running costs for high-mileage use while delivering strong low-end torque.
Servicing is spaced out. Petrol engines need attention every 30 000 km or two years, with an intermediate levels check. Direct-injection diesels follow a 20 000 km or two-year cycle. Regular oil checks between visits are advised, and timing belts require replacement at set high mileages.
Safety equipment is solid for the era. All models have ABS and electronic brake distribution as standard. Dual front airbags with a passenger deactivation switch plus seat-mounted side airbags for head and thorax protect occupants. Five head restraints and pretensioning belts are fitted, contributing to the three-star Euro NCAP result after the 1999 updates.
Keeping the car is straightforward with the extended intervals and widespread parts availability. Stick to recommended oils and address common wear items like suspension bushes promptly to maintain the comfortable ride and reliability over high mileages.
Length 4600 mm, Width 1765 mm, Height 1415 mm, Wheelbase 2700 mm (406 1999–2005)
Sources: manufacturer data, auto-data.net, multiple sites.