Peugeot is predicting a massive 27% increase in small van sales this year following the launch of the new Partner and Bipper.

The new Partner ups the load space from 3cu m to 3.3-4.2cu m. Payload rises to 625-850kg.

The old model will continue to be sold as the Partner Origin, a bargain basement model with few frills.

Despite the fact that it will be eclipsed by the new model, Peugeot LCV product manager April Harris believes sales of the Origin will rise rather than fall. She predicts 6,500 sales this year split equally between new and old Partner.

The new Partner will be offered in three guises – standard, long load length and Tepee car, which offers seating for five and with rear seats that fold down or can be removed.

Partner options include three front seats in place of the two and a dash-mounted gearstick. However, the middle seat is very cramped.

In the van, the outer passenger seat will either fold down level with the load floor so that long loads can be carried, or the squab folds upwards so that taller loads, like delicate plants, can be transported easily.

Vans will be offered with 1.6 HDi diesel (75bhp or 90bhp) and 1.6-litre 90bhp petrol. Tepee adds 110bhp petrol and 110bhp diesel.

Prices for the Partner are from £10,395 to £12,395 ex-VAT while Tepee ranges from £11,215 to £15,305 inc VAT.

Partner Origin will cost £10,140 to £10,440 ex-VAT.

Specification

Price vans (ex-VAT): £10,395-£12,395
Cars (inc VAT): £11,215-£15,305
Engines: 1.6HDI 75/90bhp diesel, 1.6-litre 90bhp petrol and (Tepee only) 110bhp petrol/diesel
Transmission: 5sp manual
Efficiency: 34.4-48.7mpg; 153-195g/km CO2
Load volume: 3.3-4.2cu m.
Payload: 625-850kg
Rivals: Citroën Berlingo, Renault Kangoo, Fiat Doblo Cargo