Faults:

The speedometer dips to 0 and then jumps back to the correct speed; this has happened three times while I've had the car. This is a relatively common fault with the speed sensor on the gearbox on both the Peugeot 406 and the Citroën Xantia, with which it shared its platform.

High oil usage, especially when driven hard. Nearly 1 litre in 4000km. Even when new, this is a particular trait of the 2.2 petrol engine, due to high PCV pressure.

Other than that, nothing apart from the expected wear and tear on a 12-year old car.

General Comments:

A real driver comfort-oriented tourer, with long service intervals (1 year/30,000km) and extremely competent handling.

The 2.2 petrol engine is a bit thirsty by modern standards (8.7l/100km), but it's also smooth, has good torque and makes a great noise.

The gearbox is serviceable, but not the best I've used. Throws are rather long and the synchros can be a bit sluggish on downshifts, especially when cold. Ratios are good for a 5-speed box, with 130km/h corresponding to 3300rpm.

The TS trim level trades a bit of comfort for a stiffer setup that pays dividends in the corners. Only the Mondeo from the same era could match it for price/handling ratio, and it's still among the best today. The high-speed ride is very comfortable and the car gently smooths out bumpy motorway or highway surfaces.

Interior quality is solid and well built, instruments are clear and easily readable, and the multifunction display has the most important information at a glance. Buttons and switchgear have a very plasticky feeling to them, though.

The stock Clarion stereo has great sound and supports an optional CD changer. I've added an AUX input to the CD changer port instead so I can use my MP3 player. The adapter is cheap, and any Peugeot dealer should be able to unlock the CD changer functionality in a couple of minutes.

Seats are comfortable and have a large range of adjustment. Huge amounts of space in the back seat as well; the 406 seats 5 adults no problem.

Faults:

Brake discs warped several times.

"Anti pollution fault" appearing on info display, seems to be the 3 cats have gone.

Engine warning light coming on randomly.

Almost no air coming from A/C system.

Heavy brake wear (That's a french car thing).

HT leads, 4 times - replaced under warranty.

ABS gear faulty.

Middle-piece of exhaust rusted.

Can't think of anything else.

General Comments:

The 406 V6 TS6 is a seriously under-estimated car, at least in Denmark. It comes with all the toys, including half-leather seats and automatic climate control.

The V6 24v electronic valve timing unit is a true gem. It feels very smooth through the entire rev range and never lacks torque or power.

Handling is just right. The car is lowered 40mm in the front and 30mm in the back, sitting on 17" alloys with 225/15 Continential Sport 2 tires. There's NO body roll what so ever, and the car just does everything you ask it too. Make no mistake, you can certainly feel that this is a rather heavy FWD 4-door sedan, but the only times I hear the tires squeal is between gearchanges, putting down the power. There's just UNLIMITED grip.

Only downside to the handling is the very overpowered electronic power assisted steering. It certaintly lacks feel at lower speeds, but it is speed-variable and will tighten up at higher speeds. Never the less, it's only a matter of getting used to it!

The performance is just excellent, with a stated 0-60 figure of 8,1 seconds, although I feel it is closer to 7, maybe even slighty sub 7.

The car will do 245 km/h with ease, it just keeps on pulling and pulling with that Porsche-like V6 sound - that would make sense since Porsche actually helped PSA design this very engine!

What can I say? This car is the perfect succesor to the 405 MI16, only with more power!

It looks great, drives great and sounds great!

Everything you would expect from a Peugeot, same goes for reliability where as always the electrics and brakes are failing.