Designed to be more of a heavyweight contender than its predecessor it now spans the 3.0 tonne to 4.0 tonne gross vehicle weight sector. The 2.8- tonner has gone. Three new Euro 4-compliant four cylinder common rail turbodiesel engines are up for grabs; two 2.2-litre units and a 3-litre that replaces the old 2.8-litre powerplant The 2.2HDi is available at either 100hp or 120hp with peak torque figures of 250Nm and 320Nm respectively.

The 3-litre is derived from the similar capacity engine found in the current Daily and in PSA/Fiat trim produces 157hp and develops a healthy peak torque of 400Nm. The two most powerful engines drive the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, while the 100 bhp 2.2 uses a five-speeder. There is not a bad powerplant among them and we particularly like the never ending torque provided by the 3-litre.

Disc brakes are fitted all-round and ABS is standard on all models. Three wheelbases are on offer and there are four body length options. Combine these with three roof heights and the end result is load volumes from 8.0m³ all the way up to 17.0m³. Payloads range from 1,110kg to 1,995kg. The cab interior has been brought bang up-to-date and in line with the approach taken by other manufacturers it has many features more usually associated with the passenger car market.

Good quality plastics have been used for the facia and the ergonomics seem pretty sound.

VERDICT

The second generation Boxer is a logical evolution and will stand Peugeot in good stead in the panel van market.