1999 Peugeot 605 Executive 2.0 turbo from Sweden
Summary:
Comfortable and luxurious old-school car.
Faults:
It consumes and loses too much oil; to avoid this problem, periodic monitoring is required, much more than the manual indicates.
The engine works well, but it tends to overheat quite a bit.
The injection system has electrical faults that cause jerking and loss of power.
Often, due to oil loss, the exhaust emits black smoke which, while not excessive, indicates combustion problems.
Starting problems, especially when it's very cold.
General Comments:
If I had to define the 605 in a few words, I'd say it's a very comfortable sedan. If I had to compare it to my previous Ford Sierra, it's clearly more comfortable to drive, has better steering, and the seats are much more comfortable, despite having more mechanical problems.
The first impression is undeniable: it's a big car. It boasts a generous wheelbase, a long length from bumper to bumper, and a spacious cabin. The seats are roomy and comfortable, with ample space between the front seatbacks and rear cushions—a sort of small living room where any passenger (though not advisable for the driver) can cross their legs without having to contort themselves. All this, along with features befitting a high-priced luxury sedan: a quiet ride, climate control, minimal vibrations, and excellent handling on all types of roads. It's a car that's as enjoyable to drive as it is to sit in the back seat and let an efficient chauffeur take the wheel.
As for the driving position, the seat is good, fully adjustable, the pedals are well-positioned relative to the driver's axis, the steering wheel has a pleasant grip (although its design is somewhat dated), the controls are within easy reach, and the gear selector is well-placed, ensuring a comfortable driving position regardless of the driver's height or build. The armrests are at the correct height, and the front seats offer adequate lateral support.
The seatbelts have height-adjustable anchor points on the A-pillar, preventing the strap from rubbing against the driver's chin or neck in certain positions.
Spacious and large like few others. With a carefully considered use of interior space that results in a comfortable cabin. Width and length provide ample room for both front and rear seat occupants. Both sections feature armrests.
The brakes and steering are excellent, providing a feeling of security wherever it is driven, in the city or on the highway.
The engine (silent and reliable) isn't particularly powerful due to the car's size and weight; perhaps the 3.0 (which isn't the one I had) would be better suited to the type of car the 605 is. Even so, the turbo helps it move more quickly and nimbly. I'm not one for spirited driving or anything like that, but it's a car that easily exceeds 200 km/h. It's clear it's not made for racing, but for enjoying.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 26th January, 2026
30th Jan 2026, 17:01
Nice review, the 605 was another underrated car.