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Peugeot E-Partner review

Does the recently updated Peugeot E-Partner have what it takes to keep up with the Renault Kangoo E-Tech and Ford E-Transit Courier?

For decades, the Peugeot Partner has been the workhorse of countless small businesses — dependable, affordable, and easy to live with. With the shift to electric, Peugeot is looking to keep that legacy alive with the E-Partner.

Peugeot recently refreshed the E-Partner with a new grille and modern styling touches, including the brand’s signature LED claw-like running lights. It looks smart, but the real question is whether it’s still the right van for the job.

With strong competition from the Ford E-Transit Courier, the Renault Kangoo E-Tech, and Stellantis-built siblings from Citroen, Fiat, Toyota and Vauxhall, does the E-Partner do enough to stay in the game?

Design, interior, and technology

Peugeot’s i-Cockpit dashboard sets it apart from its Stellantis siblings, with the instrument panel mounted higher up for better visibility. It’s easy to read, but the small steering wheel might not suit everyone.

The entry-level Professional trim is pretty basic. It doesn’t even come with a built-in radio; instead, it relies on a Smartphone Station that lets you mount and connect your own device. A DAB radio is a no-cost option, but you’ll have to ensure it’s ticked when ordering. Move up to the Professional Plus, and you get a 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the range-topping Asphalt trim adds built-in navigation and a few cosmetic extras.

Storage is decent but not exceptional. There are a few cubby holes, a glovebox, and some decent door pockets, but space is limited compared to some rivals. Overall, it’s a practical but no-frills cabin.

Peugeot E-Partner payload and practicality

The E-Partner comes in two sizes: Standard and Long. The Standard model has a load length of 1,817mm, while the Long version stretches to 2,167mm, with cargo volumes of 3.3m³ and 3.9m³, respectively. If you opt for a model with the load-through bulkhead, you get an extra half metre of space for longer items, though it’s only useful for narrow loads.

Payload capacity is impressive for an electric van, with a maximum of 781kg, although this is still less than the diesel version can carry. The towing capacity is set at 750kg, which is fine for light trailers but well below the 1,500kg capability of the Kangoo E-Tech.

Getting cargo in and out is easy thanks to asymmetric rear doors, while the Standard model has a single sliding side door. The Long model gains a second side door for extra convenience.

Price and specification

The E-Partner is well-priced within its segment, undercutting its Vauxhall Combo Electric twin by a small amount and costing less than the Renault Kangoo E-Tech. However, Ford’s E-Transit Courier is the cheapest of the lot, although it has a smaller cargo area and lower payload capacity.

Peugeot offers a three-year, 100,000-mile warranty on the van. Service intervals are set at two years or 25,000 miles after an initial one-year check.

It’s worth noting that the Toyota Proace City, which is essentially the same van, comes with a 10-year warranty. That’s a big plus for anyone planning to keep their van for the long haul.

Verdict

The Peugeot E-Partner is a solid, no-nonsense electric van that does what it needs to do without too much fuss. It’s comfortable, practical, and well-priced, making it a strong option for businesses switching to electric power.

That said, it doesn’t lead the class. The Renault Kangoo E-Tech offers sharper handling, while the Ford E-Transit Courier is a more budget-friendly choice for those who don’t need as much space.

For businesses planning to keep their van long-term, the Toyota Proace City’s 10-year warranty is hard to ignore. Given that, it’s where our money would go.

Peugeot E-Partner Asphalt Long

  • Price: £31,005 exc VAT, OTR and PIVG
  • Powertrain: Front electric motor, front-wheel drive
  • Battery: 52kWh
  • Power: 134bhp
  • Torque: 199lb ft
  • Top speed: 82mph
  • 0-62mph: 11.7 seconds
  • Range: 213 miles
  • Charging: up to 100kW

Phil Huff

Phil Huff, a seasoned automotive journalist since 2011, specialises in new car and van launches for national and regional newspapers, magazines, and online platforms. As the editor of light commercial vehicle publications Professional Van and Professional Pickup, Phil delivers high-quality content for a UK audience of LCV owner-operators and small business users.

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