The small Peugeot Partner van is returning to the New Zealand market with a petrol engine and two different wheelbase options to complement its larger sibling the Expert.
Auto Distributors New Zealand (ADNZ) which is the official local importer for the Stellantis-owned Peugeot brand says it will also introduce a fully electric e-Partner in early 2023.
“There is an increasing demand for van-based solutions and we are signalling our intentions to re-enter this small but growing segment,” ADNZ chief executive Chris Brown says.
“The new Peugeot Partner is a slightly smaller option compared with our larger Expert van and, for businesses in and around CBD’s, it’s a multi-functional product which presents a viable alternative
Brown confirmed the e-Partner will be available in both Short and Long Wheelbase, will offer the same dimensions and cargo capacity as the Partner ICE model, have an anticipated range of 275km* and should qualify for the Clean Car rebate
“It is very exciting for us to have the electric version to look forward to, in the meantime our focus is on the successful launch of the petrol-powered Partner,” Brown says.
The new Peugeot Partner debuts in New Zealand with a string of titles to its name, including 2019 International Van of the Year, Irish Van of the Year 2020 and Best Overall Small Van in the What Car? Van Awards 2021.
Peugeot says the cabin environment of the Partner offers car-like levels of interior appointment and styling. It says the i-Cockpit delivers high-quality instruments and controls, such as the head-up instrument panel inside the Partner.
A dual-flat section compact steering wheel enhances the driving experience and a large eight-inch central touchscreen, angled towards the driver for ease of operation, aligns the new Partner van with technology found across the passenger vehicle range according to the manufacturer.
Further features found in the Partner van include smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), as well as Electronic Stability Programme and Hill Start Assist, Active Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Monitoring System.
One significant area where the new Partner differs from the other models in the van segment, is the inclusion of the Multiflex system says Peugeot.
