PEUGEOT has unveiled its new-look 406 range of executive saloons and estate cars. Originally launched in 1996, the 406 has been extensively restyled by Pininfarina and benefits from more than 1,000 engineering changes including two new engines and improved levels of safety.

Ranging from £14,295 to £24,100 on the road, there is virtually no change in price across the range.

The restyling of the 406 concentrates on the front of the saloon and estate and the rear of the saloon. The 406 coupe is not affected externally.

At the front, the bonnet now has more pronounced ribs which link with the elongated, smooth glass headlights. Chrome and black trim decorates the body coloured bumper and a new-shape, chrome lion badge sits on the centre of a honeycomb grille. At the side, a distinctive contour line begins at the headlights and runs round the rear wings into the painted section of the new rear light clusters and extends along the panel of the boot lid. The boot lid is now convex and offers more storage space. On the estate, the bumper has been redesigned and the tailgate has a chromed lower edge. All 406 models have new wheel trims or new alloy wheels.

The car now has a new dashboard, fitted with chrome-encircled dials and a redesigned central facade, containing a LCD screen and more practical radio and ventilation controls. The centre console and the door casings offer greater comfort and ease of use and the seats have been reshaped.

The 406 sees the launch of a new generation of petrol engines, including 1.8, 2.0 and V6 3.0-litre.

Story date: Wednesday 19 May

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