- Maximum 5 star rating in Euro NCAP crash test results
- 407 set for Australian Release in October 2004
Peugeot's newly launched 407 has achieved a maximum 5 star score in the latest round of the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) crash tests, announced in Prague recently.
With its dynamically engineered chassis featuring new double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, comprehensive active and passive safety, and an advanced engine line-up that includes refined and powerful petrol engines with new Euro IV diesel technology, the 407 will take its market segment into new territory.
New standards in safety – eight airbags as standard
The specification of the chassis, suspension and wheels of the 407 provide excellent dynamic qualities and outstanding passive safety. The innovative structure of the 407 and the restraint systems present in the passenger compartment together offer an outstanding protective shield. At the same time the design ensures maximum comfort for the occupants.
Front seat safety
The driver is protected in the event of impact by a twin-generator, dual volume 'SMART IV' front airbag, the pressure and volume depending on the severity of the impact and the driver's seat position. The driver can further rely on a steering column that collapses by 80 mm to enhance the protection of the knees and shins in the event of a collision.
The front seat passenger similarly benefits from a twin generator, single volume 'SMART III' front airbag adapted to the severity of the impact.
In the outer part of the front seats, a side airbag protects the chest and abdomen in the event of side impact, while head protection is afforded by full-length curtain airbags.
Both driver and front passenger have the benefit of pre-tensioning seatbelts and force limiters that work 'in tandem' with the front airbags to guarantee optimum protection. These seatbelts are equipped with a double 'fasten seatbelt' audible warning by means of a visual indicator on the instrument panel and a buzzer once the car reaches 15km/h.
In the event of rear impact, 'active front head restraints' prevent whiplash by keeping the head restraint in close contact with the occupant's head, thereby helping to reduce whiplash injuries to the neck.
Rear seat safety
Passengers in the rear outer seats also benefit from the full length curtain airbags for head protection, as well as rear side airbags coupled with inertia reel pre-tensioning seatbelts. The central rear seat is also fitted with a three-point inertia reel belt.
To encourage rear passengers to wear their seatbelts and also to provide a warning should a child become unattached, the number of fastened rear seat belts is counted and displayed on the multifunction screen when the ignition is switched on; any change in status is indicated by a warning light, message and buzzer.