Packing them in is what Peugeot's latest arrival is all about. It's the oddly-named 307SW and Peugeot people would prefer if you didn't worry too much about what SW stands for: it's actually sky wagon although sport wagon and station wagon all come to mind, writes Andrew Hamilton
The 307SW has an estate-like configuration with roof rails, but in reality it is a super-flexible MPV that matches or exceeds its main competition, the Renault Scenic and Opel Zafira.
The MPV character is emphasised in the cabin with a third row of seats. The middle row slides backwards and forwards and all five rear seats can be removed to set up different permutations. There's no claim, however, that it's a full seven-seater. The third row has two seats that offer a little more space than the Zafira. Leg and headroom are still constricted. They would be useful for children, or for adults on short journeys.
The 307SW is the first off-shoot from the reigning European Car of the Year 307 hatchback. Tacking an extra 100 mm onto the wheelbase released room for the third row of seats.
It's characterised too by huge amounts of glass. The panoramic glass roof covers the full width of the roof and extends over the front and second row of seats. The 307SW also has the biggest windscreen in its class and there's a large rear screen. In fact, one third of the 307SW's body area is made of glass. Fortunately, air conditioning or climate control will be standard here. According to Peugeot, the glass roof is "athermic" and occupants will stay cool even in the brightest sunshine. It is also endowed internally with lots of handy storage areas.
The 307SW goes on sale here at the beginning of next month. There will be three engine choices; a 1.6 litre petrol with 110 bhp and two diesels, 90 and 110 bhp versions of Peugeot's acclaimed 2.0 litre HD1 turbodiesel unit offering lively performance and good fuel economy. Two specification levels are offered, GTX and Executive.
AS with all 307 models, there's a strong emphasis on safety, with front, side and curtain airbags, emergency brake assist and three-point retractable seatbelts.
Emma Toner, for Gowan Distributors, the Peugeot importers, says the 307SW will be "a hugely important car" for Peugeot on the Irish scene. She is expecting that it will sell between 1,500 and 1,600 units in a year. Irish prices have yet to be announced but she expects that they will be close to both the Scenic and the Zafira.
The 307SW is important to Peugeot internationally. The expectation is that it will account for 20 per cent of all 307 sales. "We wouldn't be surprised if that share becomes much greater," says Corrado Provera, Peugeot's public affairs director.