After being released almost identical to its sibling, Partner started to receive updates of its own over the following years. There have been some styling tweaks, different names for the trim levels, and even exclusive variations, such as Boxline and Long. Peugeot’s intention was to create a different interpretation of Berlingo, so as to attract its own buyers. Such strategy slowly turned Partner into a more “rational” option, although not by much. This foot-on-earth nature was later enhanced by the Outdoor version, which is more convincing as a light off-road van than Berlingo’s XTR. Since both models have sailed through these years with sales as high as stable, this facelift comes with a task as easy as keeping people interested in these cars, rather than trying anything new.
As the pictures anticipate, the novelties start with the styling. The front fascia was entirely redesigned according to Peugeot’s latest design language. The upper grille features a chrome frame which cleverly ends in the middle of the height: this way, it was possible to dissimulate its size and keep using good-looking proportions. The lower section uses more imponent elements, and features fog lights which became smaller so as to make room for the LEDs right above. Last, but not least, take a look at the headlights: do you think they’re new? The answer is yes and no. Those triangular units are new only for Partner: it borrowed the pair Berlingo uses since 2008. Not only do they contribute to the new lines, as they also cut production costs. Multivans aren’t known for flamboyance, after all.
Inside, noticing the updates can be a nice test for your memory. The retouched trim includes different color schemes for each version, but the biggest news requires looking to the top of the dashboard. Partner received a brand new 7” touchscreen, through which you can command the functions of its infotainment system: some of them are hands-free telephone, stereo, trip computer, the optional navigator, and Mirror Screen. Yes, just like its sibling, Peugeot’s van is now able to project your smartphone’s screen onto its own, in order to allow you easier and safer operation. The equipment list is also composed by front parking sensors, reversing camera, and the Active Brake system. But those can only be taken if you agree to leave Partner’s base price.
Under the hood, Partner’s new model-year is just as surprising as with the previous fronts. The diesel range is now composed by BlueHDi engines, which are focused on fuel efficiency – they’re actually one single 1.6-liter unit, that can deliver 75, 100, or 120 hp. If you prefer to burn gasoline, the only option going on sale from launch is another 1.6, this one coming from the VTi family and reaching 98 or 120 hp. The following months will see the release of a new gasoline engine (the PureTech 1.2 with 110 hp), as well as the renewed all-electric variation; there isn’t much official information about the latter yet. Peugeot Partner’s latest update was officially released during this year’s Geneva Auto Show, and will go on sale in Europe in the next few months.