AT THE HEART OF THE ROAD TRANSPORT INDUSTRY.

Call our Sales Team on 0208 912 2120

SIZE

14th December 2006
Page 52
Page 53
Page 52, 14th December 2006 — SIZE
Close
Noticed an error?
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.

Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

Peugeot and Fiat may lack the clout of the big boys when it comes to van sales, but in their revamped Expert and Scudo they have products that deserve to succeed.

PEUGEOT EXPERT

The previous Expert carved out a niche of its own through unique sizing. but with the latest model Peugeot has taken the bold move of stepping up a class to go head to head with the likes of the Vauxhall Vivaro and Mercedes Vito.

This might lead you to think Peugeot has taken a wrong turn — after all. it's hardly in a position to dominate the market. But after a short time with Peugeot's latest CV you get the distinct impression that the decision to increase its dimensions could be a wise one.

Styled for identity

From the outside the styling manages to minimise the larger proportions,while the sloping front end gives it a stronger identity than before. Inside things have been brought up to date with a curvy dashboard that's easy to navigate. But it also lacks inspiration for such a new machine, thanks to its widespread use of dull grey plastic, broken up only by a rather unattractive black central console, which rather takes the shine off its•designed by Pininfarina' credentials.

Another noteworthy negative is the continuing use of the previous model's column stalks rather than the latest versions used on the bigger (and just as new) Boxer.

Fortunately the Expert also retains that sense of space from the old model thanks to the raked windscreen, which lets in plenty of light and raises the overall ambiance a notch.

But the biggest positive is in the way it drives Everything works in harmony, from the dash-mounted gearchange to the nimble steering.while the 2.0-litre HDi engine (undoubtedly the pick of the bunch) pulls well from low down, while delivering a decent slug of torque through to the red line.

It also feels reassuringly composed, riding with confidence as the excellent damping absorbs rougher surfaces in its stride.

On the practicality front, the load area is well designed and there's a new-found element of structural strength that was lacking in the old model.

The load area (capable of carrying up to 1,200kg) can now be specified with pneumatic suspension, which allows the load height to he lowered, while the driver can lock and unlock the rear independently from the cab. either remotely or by using the in-cab button.

FIAT SCUDO

Turin's Mirafiori Motor Village and the southeastern Asti region were the setting for the launch of the new Fiat Scudo. Fiat, which was joint first to launch a van in this size category (in I995),wants to regain leadership in what is currently the fastest growing market segment.

The new-look Scudo is available with three power outputs from a 1.6 and two 2.0-litre diesel engines.The 1.6-litre produces 90hp at 4,000rpm with 180Nm of torque at 1,750rpm, which is transmitted to the wheels via a fivespeed manual gearbox.

Fiat's 2.0-litre engine comes in two variants, producing 120hp and I4Ohp at 4,000rpm with 300Nm and 320Nni of torque at 2,000rpm. Both these higher power engines are coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox.

The 90hp five-speed Scudo is a competent runaround in an urban environment, though its lack of power becomes evident on motorways or steep hills.

NegotiatingTurin's hilly countryside required frequent use of the manual box.

Its 120hp bigger brother is the better allround option: sixth gear is comfortable at high cruising speeds and the significantly higher torque output copes well with steep hilts. Fiat's top power option (140hp) will suit operators constantly running at maximum payload.

The Scudo's chassis is based on that of an MPV, mak ing the ride through quintessentially Italian villages with their picturesque but sub-standard roads very comfortable. Precise steering and safety features such as ABS.ESP and ASR (Anti Slip Regulation) made easy work of the steep climbs and descents.

The driving position is comfortable and will easily cater for those over six feet tall. In-cab noise intrusion from the low-power option is

111

generally low, but at 60mph.when the engine is revving at 2.75Orpm, it does become noticeable.The 120hp vehicle is significantly quieter due to it's lower cruising revs.

Time to get loaded

Two loading features stand out on the revamped ScudaThe first is the over-cab'inner tunnel' storage space,which is accessible from the loading bay and allows storage of longer items such as piping or ladders that would not otherwise fit with the bulkhead in place.

The other is the optional rear air suspension. which allows the vehicle to be lowered for easier loading at a height of just 490mm.

The interior loading volume is between 5m3 and 7m3 while payloads range from 1.0001200kg.Two wheelbases, two heights and a chassis-cab option will make up the Scudo's nine options.

Fiat hopes this load capacity and efficiency will help sell the maximum production figure of 130,000 vehicles a year to give a good return on its £700m investment.• Taking the new mini-Sevel up a size is undoubtedly a bold move, but not an uncalculated one. As buyers demand more payload and space it's only natt.iN that they will discount those that don't match up on paper.

But this significant size increase has I been at the cost of ability. There's plenty like about these new versions, and though it's only early days we've / seen enough to believe they've got what it takes to challenge the main players, and in some cases outdo them.

Explanation

Fiat Scudo and Peugeot Exped

Engines Transmissions Payloads Vol times Kerbweight Length Width Height 1,61it diesel, 90hp/180Nm; 2.01it diesel, 120hp/300Nm; 2.01it diesel, 140hp/320Nm; 2.011t petrol, 140hp/180Nm" 5-speed manual on 1.6Iit diesel and petrol; 6-speed manual on 2.01it diesels 1,000-1,200kg 5-7m3 1,661-1,775kg 4.8 and 5.13m 1.9m 1.89 and 2.28m "Only on the Peugeot

Tags

People: Mercedes Vito

comments powered by Disqus