All-New PEUGEOT e-Rifter is a Spirited EV People Mover.
New PEUGEOT e-Rifter is a Spirited EV People Mover.
The new PEUGEOT e-Rifter asserts itself as a new icon of the lion brand. The feline LED lighting signature and three claw rear lights mirror the very latest vehicles in the Peugeot range. With 5 or 7-seat options, 2 sliding side doors, and a large tailgate with wide access, it truly is built for everyday adventures. A horizontal bonnet, large wheels, roof bars, black side protectors, and notched wheel arch protectors reinforce the athletic style of the new e-Rifter. Two trim levels are available: Allure and GT, and both variants are available in Standard (L1) and Long (L2) wheelbase options, with a choice of 5 or 7 seats. With an overall external height of 1,882mm, the e-Rifter can comfortably fit into underground and multi-storey car parks.
Masses of Passenger & Cargo Space.
Although it is based on the new Peugeot Partner commercial vehicle, the e-Rifter has an endearing character of its own, and its van-like styling does result in a massive amount of cabin space for all occupants, and their luggage. Cargo space behind the rear seats measures in at a gigantic 1,355-litres (L1) or 1,900-litres (L2), and this can be expanded to 3,500-litres or 4,000-litres respectively when the rear seats are folded down. A large, deep storage compartment (with sliding covers) within the centre console has been ergonomically designed to hold everyday items that need to be kept away from prying eyes, but within easy reach of front seat occupants. With so much storage space located throughout the cabin, the e-Rifter offers best-in-class storage capacity.
Quick Charging & Realistic Range.
Peugeot quotes a WLTP real-world electric driving range of 280km from a full battery, and that is exactly the figure I achieved when I charged my review car during my time with it, and that is impressive in itself. The e-Rifter can charge at up to 100kW, meaning a 10-80% top up takes just 30 minutes on a CCS rapid charger, while a full charge (0-100%) via a regular wallbox charger will take around seven and a half hours to complete.
Car on Review.
My review car was a new Peugeot e-Rifter GT L2 (LWB) 5-Seater, which was finished in Deep Blue metallic paintwork. In addition to the comprehensive list of standard equipment in Allure trim, upgrading to GT trim brings with it 17” ‘Aoraki’ alloy wheels, 3D stamped-effect radiator grille with black surround, opening rear tailgate window, ‘Quente Brown’ interior ambience, ‘Casual’ cloth seat trim with overstitch detail, dark tinted rear side and tailgate windows, power folding door mirrors, PEUGEOT Open & Go (keyless entry and push button start), automatic dual-zone climate control, air vents in the 2nd row with fan strength command and USB socket, and a 10” digital instrument cluster, along with the ingenious PEUGEOT i-Cockpit with an 8” capacitive touchscreen. The e-Rifter is easy to handle in town, and safe and powerful on the open road. The 100kW (136hp) electric motor is powered by a high-voltage 50kWh battery, and it provides instantaneous acceleration thanks to 260Nm of immediately available torque. The new e-Rifter offers exemplary handling and agility thanks to its electric power steering, which works in tandem with the compact steering wheel and optimised chassis design to ensure even the tightest of spaces are tackled with ease. The small steering wheel allows for precise and quick steering responses, while good levels of grip in corners, and well contained body roll, are commendable characteristics. A supple suspension set-up provides all occupants with a comfortable ride quality on a wide variety of road surfaces. The ‘e-Toggle’ automatic gearbox control button is located on the centre console, and a ‘B’ (Brake) mode button allows for increased deceleration when the accelerator pedal is released, thus increasing the driving range. Additionally, a Drive Mode selector enables drivers to choose between Eco, Normal and Power in order to optimise range or performance when required. The latest PEUGEOT i-Cockpit technology includes two new instrument panels that share all the information necessary for the proper management of a 100% electric vehicle.
Conclusion & Pricing.
The new Peugeot e-Rifter is a hugely practical and comfortable fully-electric people carrier in every respect. It has a cabin that is cavernous, usable and immensely practical, and it is sure to find favour with families and taxi operators alike. With a comfortable ride quality, responsive handling characteristics and generous levels of standard equipment, the new e-Rifter is a credible and highly commendable alternative to an SUV or estate car. Pricing starts at €39,070 for the Allure L1 variant, with my review car specification priced at €41,470. For buyers not yet ready to make the transition to a fully-electric MPV, the new Peugeot Rifter is also available with a 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel engine, and is priced from just €33,250.
Visit www.peugeot.ie for further information.
Text & Images by Declan Glynn, on behalf of motoringmatters.ie
