Peugeot 307 (2001 - 2007) - HDi disappointing fuel economy

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Tue 2 Oct 2007 13:12
HDi disappointing fuel economy - AdrianM
A few months ago I changed my V reg 406 HDI 2.0l (110) for an 04 reg 307 HDI 2.0l (110). Most of my journeys are straight up and down the M4, the 406 returned >50mpg over the time I had it. The 307 however, barely gives me ~45mpg. Both measured by brim to brim fill ups and recorded milage in between - no reliance on computers, other than my Excel spreadsheet!

I far as I am aware it is exactly the same engine (though 5 years newer - so should be better?) in a smaller car so why would my fuel consumption be so much worse? Generally my driving style/speed remains unchanged - though I would say that the 307 is much livelier so I probably accelerate more briskly, but as I say, 90% of my driving time is spent pootling down the M4 at 70-80mph - exactly as before.

Any thoughts?
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Tue 2 Oct 2007 13:23
HDi disappointing fuel economy - Screwloose
Adrian

Very easy answer - and a very common complaint on most late diesels too.

Your 307 is Euro 4 compliant and is fitted with a FAP - or diesel particulate filter - in the exhaust.

Not only does it cut 10-15% off the fuel mileage; it costs a fortune to have the complex emission system serviced at 50K mile intervals - anything up to £900 is common.

Google "Eolys" for the full picture.
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Tue 2 Oct 2007 13:25
HDi disappointing fuel economy - Falkirk Bairn
>>I would say that the 307 is much livelier

Lower gearing may be the reason - faster off the mark in a lighter weight car may be to do with less Weight & lower ratios in the gearing.

Honda 1600cc Coupe gave 4/5mpg more than a 1600 Estate - lower gearing to allow for heavier loads was the garage guess when I asked why the difference in similar engines.
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Tue 2 Oct 2007 14:02
HDi disappointing fuel economy - jc2
Not just on diesels;on most vehicles,compliance with new regulations is at the expense of economy,performace or both.
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Tue 2 Oct 2007 14:31
HDi disappointing fuel economy - johnsnc
Fat tyres might be an issue too I suppose. Does the 307 have wider tyres than the earlier 406 ?
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Tue 2 Oct 2007 15:33
HDi disappointing fuel economy - AdrianM
Thanks for replies - all make good sense. And yes, it does have wider tyres - 205 vs 195.

Looks like I'll have to console myself with the knowledge that (for the mileage I do) the saving in VED just about balances the cost of the higher fuel consumption.........either that or learn to restrict my speed to 50mph!
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