Peugeot E-Partner Review

Peugeot’s updated E-Partner enters competitive electric van market

The recently refreshed Peugeot E-Partner brings electric power to a van that has served as the backbone for countless small businesses over decades. With new styling features including a redesigned grille and the brand’s distinctive LED claw-like running lights, the E-Partner aims to maintain its reputation for dependability in an increasingly crowded electric van segment.

Competition is fierce, with rivals including the Ford E-Transit Courier, Renault Kangoo E-Tech, and several Stellantis-built alternatives from Citroen, Fiat, Toyota and Vauxhall.

Design and Technology

The E-Partner distinguishes itself from its Stellantis siblings with Peugeot’s signature i-Cockpit dashboard layout. This design positions the instrument panel higher for improved visibility, though the small steering wheel might not appeal to all drivers.

Professional trim – the entry-level option – offers minimal technology. It doesn’t include a built-in radio, instead providing a Smartphone Station for mounting your device. A DAB radio is available as a no-cost option but must be specifically selected when ordering.

Professional Plus trim adds a 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Asphalt trim – the range-topper – includes built-in navigation and additional cosmetic enhancements.

Storage options are adequate but not class-leading, with several cubby holes, a glovebox, and reasonably sized door pockets. Overall, the cabin prioritizes practicality over frills.

Payload and Practicality

The E-Partner comes in two body styles: Standard and Long. The Standard version provides 1,817mm of load length and 3.3m³ cargo volume, while the Long variant extends to 2,167mm and 3.9m³ respectively.

Models equipped with the load-through bulkhead gain an additional half-meter of space for longer items, though this feature only accommodates narrow cargo.

The electric van can carry up to 781kg – impressive for an electric model but still less than its diesel counterpart. Towing capacity is limited to 750kg, significantly below the Kangoo E-Tech’s 1,500kg capability.

Asymmetric rear doors facilitate easy loading, with the Standard model featuring a single sliding side door. The Long version adds a second side door for improved access.

Price and Specification

The E-Partner is competitively priced, undercutting both its Vauxhall Combo Electric sibling and the Renault Kangoo E-Tech. Ford’s E-Transit Courier costs less but offers reduced cargo space and lower payload capacity.

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

It’s notable that the Toyota Proace City – essentially the same van with different badging – comes with a 10-year warranty, representing significant added value for businesses planning long-term ownership.

Verdict

The Peugeot E-Partner delivers as a practical, comfortable electric van at a reasonable price point, making it a viable option for businesses transitioning to electric vehicles.

However, it doesn’t dominate its class. The Renault Kangoo E-Tech handles better, while the Ford E-Transit Courier offers a more budget-friendly alternative for those with lighter cargo needs.

For long-term ownership, the Toyota Proace City’s exceptional 10-year warranty makes it particularly compelling – and potentially the wisest investment in this segment.