Peugeot launches all-new Partner van

Peugeot has unveiled the all-new Partner panel van, which goes on sale in the autumn priced from an estimated £16,000 before VAT.

Developed alongside the 2018 versions of the Citroen Berlingo and Vauxhall Combo, the new Peugeot Partner is packed with tech, including a digital i-Cockpit dashboard and overload warning system as standard.

The Partner is available in two load lengths - Standard and Long – and even the smallest version will accommodate two Euro pallets with a load volume of 3.3 – 3.8 cubic metres. Long models get 3.9 to 4.4 cubic metres and payloads for all vans range from 650kg to 1000kg. All vans get a side sliding door as standard, while an additional offside sliding door is available as an option.

Like the Berlingo and Combo, there are two diesels and one petrol engine to choose from. The 1.6-litre turbodiesel has been carried over from the old Partner with 75PS or 100PS and a five-speed manual gearbox, while an all-new 130PS 1.5-diesel gets a six-speed manual or EAT8 automatic gearbox. There are no details about CO2 emissions of fuel economy from Peugeot yet.

Peugeot is promising swift handling, with a small turning circle for easy manoeuvring: the kerb to kerb turning radius is 10.8 metres for the Standard version and 11.4 for the Long version. An eight-inch touch screen is located in the centre of the dashboard on selected models to provide direct access to key comfort functions such as radio, navigation, vehicle settings and telephone.

There are two models to choose from. The rugged ‘Grip’ version is designed for builders, difficult terrains and heavy, dirty, long loads while maintaining enough room for three people in the front. Sturdy enough to endure all conditions, this version features higher ground clearance, large wheels, Advanced Grip Control and the maximum payload of 1000kg.

‘Asphalt’ models have been designed for van operators who do a lot of mileage and spend a lot of hours in their vehicle. This version includes upgraded soundproofing providing an acoustic benchmark, Comfort seats, electric parking brake, cruise control, automatic lights and windscreen wipers.

The Partner is also available as a Crew Van. The rear bench seat is carried over from all-new Rifter MPV and the rear two seats can be folded down to accommodate large loads while still leaving room for a single passenger seat in the back.