Peugeot Expert Review 2024

Peugeot Expert At A Glance

4/5

+Efficient and easy to drive everyday will tow 2.5 tonnes, 1400kg payload capacity.

-Entry-level engines are noisy, some build quality concerns, no high-roof option.

The Peugeot Expert is a stylish and modern van that blends low running costs with big load moving potential. Powered by an efficient range of four-cylinder diesels, the Expert will officially exceed 50mpg and carry payloads weighing up to 1400kg.

To drive, it's surprisingly car-like, although the Expert's creaky interior does raise a few concerns when it comes to build quality.  It's built at the same French factory as the Citroen Dispatch and Toyota Proace.

There are three body sizes and two wheelbase lengths to choose from and it can be specified as a van or crew cab, with panel or glazed/semi-glazed size walls. Peugeot only offers one roof height, which means all versions of the Expert will fit into a multi-storey car park. 

Under the bonnet the Expert is offered with the choice of 1.6 or 2.0-litre diesel engines, with the standout performer the 115PS 1.6 HDi that will officially return 54.3mpg. That's impressive when you consider that the leanest Transit Custom claims 47.1mpg, while the T6 Transporter is advertised with 47.9mpg. 

The Expert is a good van to drive, with responsive steering and a willingness to change direction at speed. The van also impresses in town, with nimble handling that makes parking easy. Indeed, with a turning circle starting from 11.3 metres, the Expert will outperform most family cars when it comes slotting into a space or performing a three-point turn. 

Power ratings for the four-cylinder engines vary from 95PS to 180PS. Most engines get a slick six-speed manual gearbox as standard, although 95PS units are matched to somewhat clunky five-speed transmissions. Those wanting the range-topping 180PS unit will get a fully fledge six-speed auto. 

Most of the engines will cover motorway miles in comfort, with decent mid-gear pull and low levels of road noise. The only disappointment in the range is the 95PS 1.6 HDi, which is quote vocal under hard acceleration. The turbo is also noisy at low speeds, which means it can grate after a long day behind the wheel.

The Expert does raise some concerns when it comes to build quality. Some of the interior plastics have a tendency to rattle over bumpy roads and the attention to detail in the cabin is lacking compared to the Ford Transit Custom and Volkswagen Transporter. That said, the Expert is considerably cheaper to buy and run than its key rivals, which combined with its heavy duty load moving potential, makes it a winner for money-conscious builders and delivery drivers. 

Essential knowledge: 10 things you need to know about the Peugeot Expert

What does a Peugeot Expert cost?