The Peugeot Vivaro is a light commercial vehicle (LCV) that has been in production since 2001, designed to meet the needs of businesses requiring a reliable and versatile transportation solution for goods or personnel.
Design and Engineering
Peugeot’s entry into the LCV market was facilitated by its partnership with Fiat, resulting in www.vivarocasino.ie the creation of the Partner van, which shared many components with the Berlingo. However, it wasn’t until 2001 that Peugeot launched a dedicated model in the form of the Vivaro. The vehicle is built on a platform shared with the Renault Trafic and Opel Zafira Tourer, featuring a transverse-engine layout for optimal packaging efficiency.
The original Vivado’s design focused on functionality, offering three lengths: Standard (4.98m), Long (5.32m), and Extra Long (5.74m). This was achieved through the use of modular construction techniques, allowing customers to choose their preferred configuration according to specific requirements.
In 2006, Peugeot introduced a facelifted version of the Vivaro, adopting revised front-end styling that shared common elements with other Peugeots and LCVs in its portfolio. Additional updates included enhancements to the interior trim and availability of more advanced engine options.
Variations and Types
The Peugeot Vivado is offered as both a panel van (panelled cargo area) or crew cab version, catering for differing demands on productivity and flexibility.
- Panel Van: This configuration allows owners to utilize their vehicle’s carrying capacity without partitioning. It was available in three length variants.
- Crew Cab: Available since 2006 as part of the revised Vivado line-up, this type integrates a full roof conversion with two rows of seats, creating space for up to seven passengers.
Features and Options
Peugeot has concentrated on equipping its light commercial vehicle with the right mix of performance and practicality. The original Vivaro was available with three diesel variants – 1.9L (82PS), 2.0L (90PS) and a more powerful 1.6L turbocharged model (110ps). In later years, further engine options became available.
Among notable features for the early models are:
- Comfort package: adding interior refinements such as cruise control
- Metallic paints to protect the vehicle from corrosion
In line with shifting market expectations regarding both convenience and economy, updates included connectivity solutions like Bluetooth hands-free telephone system, USB ports to enhance personal media options, and a touch-sensitive screen for infotainment.
Impact on the Market
By combining its light commercial vehicle underpinning technology (from Opel) with Peugeot’s established engineering standards, the Vivado represented an enhanced answer for entrepreneurs seeking more agile delivery systems or flexible crew vehicles. As it entered into a long production run, it earned widespread recognition among business and personal users alike due to its durability and comfort.
Over its lifespan, several competing manufacturers (such as Mercedes-Benz Sprinter) have challenged Peugeot’s dominance in the market segment but so far without achieving significant market share losses for this popular van line.