STRIKING and adventurous are the words which spring to mind to describe the Peugeot 407 saloon

The interior has uncluttered, easy to understand knobs and buttons and the fascia trim feels solid. It's obvious Peugeot has splashed out on high-quality materials for the car.

Under the bonnet, Peugeot is offering a choice of nine engines, based on four petrols ranging from 1.8 to 3.0-litres and two powerful HDI diesel units - 1.6 and 2.0.

The 136bhp 2.0-litre HDi unit in the six-gear model has adequate power available and returns a claimed 49mpg on a combined run, which will attract the high-mileage company car driver.

An added bonus is the fact that both oil-burners are Euro IV compliant saving company drivers some tax.

Top speed of the 2.0-litre diesel is claimed at 129mph and the 0-62mph sprint at eleven seconds exactly adequate speed for most drivers.

Behind the wheel the Peugeot feels refined and offers a comfortable ride. The French company is renowned for its superb suspensions and the 407 doesn't disappoint on this front with its multi-link suspension and new damping system.

Safety has been well looked after. The 407 has up to nine airbags - one of them a steering column airbag which is supposed to protect the lower limbs.

There's also a choice of rear side airbags mounted in the door panels coupled with pre-tensioning seat belts.

Anti-lock brakes, anti-skid system, emergency brake assist, individual wheel brake force distribution and stability control are all included in the safety package.

Equipment levels are high with most items such as remote central locking, immobiliser, CD player and air conditioning coming as standard.