The PSA Group, which owns Citroën and Peugeot, has revealed the new styling for the Dispatch and Expert vans, both of which will be manufactured in France. The new vans offer three body lengths including a new 4.6m-long version that will be the smallest in the range.

The new vans will also be sold under the Fiat and Toyota brand names, when they appear on the Irish market towards the beginning of September.

The vans are built on a new modular platform that has shaved between 100kg and 150kg from the weight of the vans. They are all rated to take a loading of 1.4t – that’s 200kg more than the previous versions. They have a 2.5t trailer towing rating.

Turbo-diesel engines

Engine options will include upgraded 1.6- and 2.0-litre HDi turbo-diesel engines, which use AdBlue and are more efficient than in the past. The top performing model rated at 180bhp will come with the option of an automatic gearbox and also a four-wheel-drive system.

The vans are 1.9m in height, allowing them to be used in underground car parks. The side passenger seat can be lifted up to provide extra length space with a flat floor up to 4m.

The new vans have a higher driving position and a host of storage compartments. The vans come with an adjustable writing panel and tablet. Smartphone supports turn them into a real mobile office.

Among the interesting features that will be provided is a new hands-free sliding side doors system, a new rear view vision system and enhanced safety features endorsed by a Euro NCAP 5-star safety rating.

PSA’s Grip Control, an upgraded anti-skid system that optimises wheel grip is be available on all models. The four-wheel-drive option is available through a Dangel kit to give full drive to all wheels.

The vans differ almost only in their front end design to accommodate the different logos for each brand. Prices will be announced nearer to the time of launch in September, according to both Citroën and Peugeot.