This year’s new and improved Peugeot 407 is a real smooth operator.

It’s a handsome, executive car that is much more businesslike than its fun-loving little sister, the 308cc, but still just as impressive in terms of fuel economy, power and pace.

New equipment such as front parking assistance enhances the car’s reputation for ease of driving and dynamic performance. And there’s also revised grilles and new rear lamps.

It is available with a choice of four- and six-cylinder engines featuring cutting edge technology, particularly on the HDi diesel versions, the most popular engine in the 407.

These include an updated 2.0-litre HDi 140 engine with a six-speed manual gearbox, which develops a power output of 140bhp - an increase of 4bhp over the HDi 136. It also benefits from low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced to 150g/km.

The 407 received a maximum five stars for adult occupancy protection in the Euro NCAP crash tests. It has up to nine airbags including knee bags and electronic stability control is standard on all models as is an alarm and immobiliser.

Standard equipment includes cruise control with speed limiter, Bluetooth handsfree telephone kit and electric seat adjustment.

The 407’s air-conditioning has been particularly effective this last week – just how did we manage before air-con in cars? I can’t remember, but I think it might have had something to do with winding the windows down…

Factfile

Car: Peugeot 407 Sport Saloon Hdi 140

Engine: 1997cc diesel

Price: £21,745

0-62mph: 9.8 seconds

Top speed: 129mph

Insurance group: 10E

Fuel: 49.5mpg (combined)