Stellantis is all about electrification but in parts of the world where budget-friendly models are vital for automakers, pure ICE is alive and kicking. This is the case with Peugeot’s latest LCV called Partner Rapid, which is actually a rebadged version of the Brazilian-spec Fiat Fiorino.
Let’s start by clarifying that the South
American Peugeot Partner Rapid is a completely different vehicle from the
EU-spec Partner / Rifter. Unlike the EMP2-based LCV that has recently gone EV-only
in Europe and the UK, the “Rapid” prefix brings an aging platform that dates
back to the Fiat Uno from 2010, although it has received some updates since.
Under the bonnet lies the latest version
of the naturally aspirated 1.4 EVO Flex four-cylinder eight-valve engine. The
mill produces 84 hp and 116 Nm when running on gasoline,
or up to 86 hp and 120 Nm of torque when running on
ethanol. Power is sent to the front axle through a five-speed manual gearbox.
What is more important for LCV buyers is
the cargo capacity of 650 kg and the cargo space volume of 3.3
cubic meters thanks to the old-school boxy shape of the rear
end. Design-wise, the Peugeot Partner Rapid does little to hide its ties with
the Fiat Fiorino. The two models are identical, besides the different grille,
the Peugeot badges and the Rapid lettering on the side mouldings.
The same goes for the interior, where the
pretty basic dashboard incorporates a screen-less look. Buyers who want modern
luxuries like air-conditioning, power steering and electric windows should opt
for the Business Pack trim since the entry-level Business gets none of those.
In terms of infotainment, the only option is to visit an aftermarket specialist
since the LCV doesn’t even come with a radio.
The Peugeot Partner Rapid is already
available in Brazil with prices starting from 101,390 Brazilian Real (US$ 20,046).
This makes it slightly more expensive than the Fiat Fiorino which starts from
99,990 Brazilian Real (US$ 19,795) in the same market. Mind you, there is a third
sibling to the family, the Ram ProMaster Rapid, which is reserved for specific
markets in South America like Mexico.
