News

PSA-Fiat's latest joint product was revealed at the Sevel Nord factory near Valenciennes, northern France. The result of a £300m joint investment, the three new models, bearing the established Dispatch (Citroën), Scudo (Fiat) and Expert (Peugeot) names, show a noticeably higher build quality than the vans they replace while retaining certain notable characteristics of the outgoing versions. Identical in every way bar badgework and minor trim, the three new light commercials share a common platform  with the 'monospace' MPV passenger vehicles sold under the Citroën/Fiat/Peugeot banners. In this way, they have fulfilled a market demand for an intermediate LCV since the original models came to market in 1995.

Few would dispute the need for a rejuvenation of the outgoing range, easily recognised by its distinctive wedge shaped profile, and the latest models combine a completely new shape with a rear panel area that looks to have drawn inspiration from the latest Mercedes-Benz Vito. Load volume has increased from 4cu-m to 5 or 7cu-m according to body type, thanks to the introduction of high roof and long wheelbase versions. There's also a marked improvement in payload capacity with a choice of 1,000 or 1,200kg chassis. Motive power comes via 1.6 and 2.0 litre diesels, the highest of these rated at 136hp. A 2.0 litre 140hp petrol engine is additionally available in the Peugeot Citroën variants.

Six speed gearboxes are standard on all models except the lowest-powered  diesel.Unusually for a European launch a RHD model was available for closer inspection, in high roof Fiat Scudo guise. The dash-mounted gearshift and overhead storage shelf are carried over to the new range and the interior has been thoroughly modernised to create a clean, harmonious layout. Quality of materials looks as good as any contemporary van. But we are less impressed by the raised seat edge which proves uncomfortable when getting out of the cab and we reckon that the limited legroom won't find favour with taller drivers, despite an impressive range of adjustment in the steering column. The new Franco-Italian mid-weights will go on general release in February next year.