2016 Peugeot Expert Promises Class-Leading Fuel Economy

Built on the Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2), the 2016 Peugeot Expert is a light commercial vehicle available in many configurations. Its selling point, however, is the fact that it is the segment leader in terms of fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions.

Thanks to the turbo diesel technology of the Groupe PSA and weight savings of between 220 and 330 pounds (100 and 150 kilograms), Peugeot claims that the Expert can return up to 55.3 mpg (imperial). That’s 46 mpg according to the American standard or 5.1 liters per 100 kilometers. These numbers apply to the 1.6-liter BlueHDI with 115 PS and a six-speed manual.

The 2016 Peugeot Expert is available in three body lengths (Standard, Compact and Long) and with two or three seats in the front. The maximum carrying space it offers is 6.6 cubic meters or 233 cubic feet. The Standard and Long versions can carry up to three Euro-pallets in size. Regarding payload, the Expert can manage up to 3,086 pounds (1,400 kilograms).

To facilitate loading, Peugeot equipped the all-new Expert with hands-free sliding side doors. This feature unlocks and opens the sliding side doors with a simple foot action. The system also closes and locks the Expert automatically when you move away from it. Neat, huh?

On the oily front, engines vary from 1.6 to 2.0 liters and 95 PS to 180 PS. The range-topping 2.0 L BlueHDI 180 comes exclusively mated to a six-speed automatic called the EAT6. This transmission shouldn’t be confused with the ETG6, which is an automated manual available for the 1.6 L BlueHDI 95. All engines incorporate selective catalytic reduction technology and a 22.4-liter AdBlue tank that should be topped every 9,320 miles (15,000 km) or so.

Available as a van, crew van, combi, or platform cab, the 2016 Peugeot Expert will make its first public outing on April 26 at the NEC Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham.