Ian Tonkin
Page 47
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Until now, Volkswagen's Caddy and Ford Transit Connect have been the automatic choices for fleet managers Looking for high-cube vehicles.
I However, with the arrival of vans such as the Peugeot Partner, there's no reason why vehicles such as this can't be included in the shortlist because it is a more-than-capable machine.
it matches the Caddy in terms of ride and handling and even trumps its rival in interior practicality and tab comfort.
And when you consider engine refinement, the 1.6-litre unit is streets ahead of the Connect's gruff and peaky unit.
But for alt the Peugeot's plus-points, we're stilt Left a little cold by the gearshift, which is soft and sloppy.
The van also doesn't feel quite as robust as its premium rivals. While we don't doubt the FAP unit will reduce diesel particulates, it only manages to reduce CO2 output over the non-FAP version by 2g/km, so is not going to slot into a lower tax band_ That said, the Partner is keenly priced, because, while the Ford Connect starts at E13,450, an entry-level Peugeot costs just El 1,795, plus there's a comprehensive dealer network of 265 outlets in the UK So, if you're in the market for some new high-cube vans, then the Peugeot should at least bean your shorttist.