Peugeot New Zealand has introduced a new offering to the commercial vehicle market, with the arrival of the Partner.
This is a smaller alternative to Expert van and so Peugeot reckon it would suit businesses working in urban environments due to its compact and car-like nature.
Two variants will be available including the ‘Standard’ model which is 4403mm in length, 1848mm wide and 1840mm tall, with a 2785mm wheelbase.
The ‘Long’ variant is extended to 4753mm, keeps the same width and is slightly taller by just 9mm. The wheelbase is stretched to 2975mm.
Maximum load length is the key difference between the two models which can also be increased with Peugeot’s Multiflex system. This enables longer loads to be transported by folding the outer passenger seat down.
| Interior Dimensions | Standard | Long |
| Max load length (mm) – ‘Multiflex’ excluded/included | 1817/3090 | 2167/3440 |
| Max load width/height (mm) | 1550/1236 | 1550/1243 |
| Load width between wheel arches (mm) | 1229 | 1229 |
| Load volume (m3) – ‘Multiflex’ excluded/included | 3.3/3.8 | 3.9/4.4 |
| Euro pallet (number) | 2 | 2 |
An additional storage area can be found under the central seat while large items such as laptops and 1.5-litre drink bottles can be stored in various cubbyholes.
The Partner offers a maximum loading space of up to 4.4 cubic metres with both models being able to accommodate two pallets with a payload of up to 1000kg.
The standard wheelbase Partner provides a max towing capacity of 1050kg braked while the longer version can tow an extra 100kg. Both models can tow 750kg unbraked.
| Weights | Standard | Long |
| Kerb weight (kg) | 1320 | 1407 |
| Gross vehicle weight (kg) | 2320 | 2320 |
| Payload (kg) | 1000 | 1000 |
| Max towing capacity (kg) – braked/unbraked | 1050/750 | 1150/750 |
| Max downball weight (kg) | 74 | 74 |
Each Partner comes with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol producing 96kW and 230Nm which is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, directing power to the front wheels.
In terms of office space, Peugoet reckons the Partner’s cabin features car-like levels of styling and technology. A large 8-inch central touchscreen can be found angled towards the driver featuring smartphone connectivity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included too, alongside a plethora of safety and parking aids.
There are plans for the Partner to go electric from next year too. The e-Partner will be available in both short and long wheelbases while offering the same cargo capacity as the ICE model and will have an anticipated range of 275km.
Maximum pricing for the standard Partner comes to $45,990 and is neutral under the Clean Car scheme (no fee or rebate) with the long Partner coming in at $48,990.
The Peugeot Partner is available in New Zealand now.
