Peugeot 406 Estate (1996-2004) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 24 - 49 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Servicing is not cheap. Engines can be tricky to work on, so not one for the DIYer. Fuel economy is so-so because of the big bodies – mpg is low 30s for 1.8/2.0 (although the latest 2.0 HPi unit manages over 35mpg), low 40s for the 1.9/2.1 turbo-diesels, slightly better for the later 2.0 HDi diesels.

406 performs quite well on the eco front. With an average of 180 g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are quite low for a medium-sized estate. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

The range is also fairly economical, averaging 39 mpg.

An enviable reliability record so far – most have been maintained properly by fleet managers; the long-term outlook is looking good so far, but time and mounting mileages will tell.