New 2018 Peugeot Rifter makes public debut at Geneva

Peugeot gets a new lease of life in the LAV segment with the all-new Rifter, replacing the Partner Tepee

The Peugeot Rifter has made its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show. It replaces the Partner Tepee as Peugeot’s leisure activity vehicle (LAV) offering, and is based on a modified version of PSA’s EMP2 platform. It lines up alongside the new Citroen Berlingo Multispace and Vauxhall Combo Life, to complete a trio of van-based MPVs from the newly-formed alliance.
Like those other vans, the Rifter is an exercise in badge engineering, sharing the same underpinnings and overall form. Peugeot’s latest family face distinguishes it from the rest of the pack, however, while sportier looking GT-Line models will be available too. In addition, Peugeot bosses also revealed a 4X4 Concept version, although there is no word on whether it will make production.

Like its two siblings, the Rifter will be available in two sizes. A ‘Standard’ wheelbase van sizes up at 4.4 metres long, while the long-wheelbase ‘Long’ model stretches out to 4.75 metres. Five seats are standard, with seven-seat models arriving on the market next year. Shorter models will sport 775 litres of boot space with five seats in place, while cargo room in the Long model swells up to 1,050 litres.

Under the bonnet will be a familiar spread of 1.2-litre PureTech petrol options, as well as PSA’s 1.5-litre Blue HDi four-cylinder diesel. The PureTech unit will be available with either 108bhp or 128bhp, with the latter gaining an automatic gearbox.

Similarly, the 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel will be available in two states of tune – a 74bhp entry-level version alongside a 128bhp unit. Both feature a manual gearbox as standard, with an automatic gearbox to be made available on the 128bhp diesel. Optional drivetrain enhancements include Peugeot Advanced Grip Control for off-road surfaces, while hill descent control is also available.

In the cabin the overall dashboard and interior layout is just as you’ll find in both the Citroen and the Vauxhall, meaning a new, cleaner design with wide horizontal air vents, a wide central bin beneath the gearstick, and a tablet infotainment screen on top range models. The Peugeot does sport two slight differences, however – a trademark, small steering wheel sits ahead of an i-Cockpit style instrument panel.
In addition to the production car, Peugeot has also revealed a more rugged version called the Rifter 4X4 Concept. Said to be "built for adventure on all types of terrain", the 4X4 Concept gets all-wheel drive, specific off-road tyres and 80mm of extra ground clearance. On the roof there's an Overland tent, while an electric bicycle is mounted on the back. Just a concept car for now, there is no hint as to whether the 4X4 will make production at a later date.
Orders for the Peugeot Rifter open early this summer, with complete UK specifications and prices to be outlined closer to launch