Peugeot is aiming to become a big fish in a shallow pond by entering the crowded Australian LCV market
By Gary Worrall
Renowned French car manufacturer Peugeot is tackling the already crowded Australian light commercial vehicle market head on with the release of its new Partner and Expert ranges.
The Partner targets VW’s Caddy, the Renault Kangoo and Citroen Berlingo for a Euro-centric attack on the hearts, minds and wallets of Australia’s small commercial buyers, offering a choice of petrol or HDi injected diesel engines, all mated to a five-speed manual transmission.
The larger Expert, like the Partner, rolls off production lines in Vigo, Spain, which also builds competitors the FIAT Scudo and Citroen Dispatch.
In addition to its stablemates, the Expert will be battling with the Toyota HiAce, Hyundai iLoad, Mitsubishi Express and Renault’s Trafic and Master vans.
A slick shifting six-speed manual is standard across the Expert range, which offers either a standard (3000mm) or long (3122mm) wheelbase, with seating for up to three adults.
Power comes from a choice of 2-litre, 88kW HDi or a 100kW version, including a particulate filter, on the Expert Professional, which also gains airbag rear suspension for an improved ride.
The Partner and Expert will be on sale from September 1 through Peugeot’s existing dealer network, priced from $21,990 (recommended retail) for the standard wheelbase, 66kW petrol-engined Partner, through to $41,950 recommended retail for the long-wheelbase Expert Professional.
For the full story on the Expert and Professional, see the September edition of ATN.