Peugeot Traveller set for Geneva debut

Peugeot’s new Traveller MPV is set to make its world debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

The Traveller’s assertive design exudes strength and elegance, says Peugeot, while introducing features of the brand's SUV and car range to the MPV segment.

Sitting on a new chassis, adapted from the ‘Efficient Modular Platform 2’ (EMP2), the Traveller will also be targeted at the VIP shuttle sector with the promise of quality, efficiency and best-in-class fuel consumption.

Its Euro 6 BlueHDi engines are equipped with an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) pollution control system upstream of the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). These combine driving enjoyment and efficient performance, says Peugeot, offering an output of up to 180hp and peak torque of 400Nm, and average CO2 emission levels across the range of 140g/km.

The Traveller is available in multiple configurations with seating for up to 9 occupants and has already been awarded a top 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety tests.

Maxime Picat, Managing Director at Peugeot, said: “The Peugeot Traveller fully applies the brand’s expansion strategy by positioning us on the growth sectors of the MPV and VIP Shuttle. Through its innovative design, the Peugeot Traveller gives a new dimension to Peugeot’s upmarket shift.”

New Citroen SpaceTourer to debut in Geneva

Citroen has confirmed its new SpaceTourer is set for a World Premiere at the Geneva Motor Show.

The SpaceTourer combines ‘comfort and practicality’ with dynamic performance and what Citroen calls ‘remarkable fuel efficiency’. Built on a new modular EMP2-based platform, a variant of the one used by the C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso, this provides more cabin space and boot volume.

The front design consists of a short horizontally-styled bonnet with large, high-set headlights. Vertical LED daytime running lights are integrated with the fog lamps. The positioning of the wheels, together with short overhangs, ensures ‘maximisation’ of the vehicle’s proportions and results in its spacious interior. Features such as hands-free sliding side doors and a rear window that opens fully are described as indicative of how practical the vehicle is, while 17-inch ‘Curve’ alloy wheels are also available.

There are new front and rear axles, which means the SpaceTourer is able to carry loads of up to 1,400kg. The platform's modular design allows for two wheelbases (2.92m and 3.27m) as well as two rear overhangs (0.80m and 1.15m). The combination allows for 3 body lengths which offer five, seven or eight seats: XS at 4.60m, with the shorter wheelbase, then the M at 4.95m and XL at 5.30m with the longer wheelbase. The boot space reaches a maximum of 2,932 litres for the XL version with 5 seats. The sliding seats sit on rails for optimal boot volume and added leg room.

The SpaceTourer Business is available in three lengths with five to nine seats. This version has professional passenger transport use in mind (such as hotel shuttles, taxis etc) and can be configured in terms of the number of seats and the equipment to create an entirely bespoke vehicle.

The people carrier features hands-free access, enabling motorists to open and close the side doors contact-free when both their hands are full. With a simple movement of the foot, under the corner of the rear bumper, the vehicle unlocks and the sliding side door on the driver’s side opens automatically. The rear window also opens for optimal boot loading or for easy access when the tailgate cannot be opened due to limited access behind the vehicle. The front of the cabin is also home to a lower glove box with an audio jack, 12V socket and a USB socket, while the upper glove box is lit and refrigerated.

The spacious and uncluttered interior has been designed for long-distance journeys and its multiple windows and large glass roof with blinds can be closed separately in two sections. Passengers in rows two and three benefit from independent, sliding and reclining seats with comfortable head rests and arm rests.

Available with five powertrains, all feature BlueHDi diesel engines, delivering as much as 55.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 133g/km for the XS length BlueHDi 115 S&S 6-speed manual.

Additionally, coinciding with the launch of the SpaceTourer, Citroen is joining forces with French pop group “HYPHEN HYPHEN” to unveil a bright, vibrant 4x4 concept version - the SpaceTourer HYPHEN. Amplifying the character of the production version, the SpaceTourer HYPHEN concept has bright, breezy, ‘go-anywhere looks that inspire thoughts of unlimited travel’.

The concept has a broader front bumper design, wheel arch trims and sill protectors inspired by the Aircross concept. All of these features are finished in a matt Dark Moondust colour that is amplified by red-orange highlights. With a higher ride-height than the production version, the concept runs on 19-inch diamond-cut matt black alloy wheels with red-orange detailing. To emphasise its all-terrain credentials, five elastomer straps are positioned on each tyre.

Onboard, every occupant enjoys ‘VIP treatment’ - each seat is given a unique colour scheme, repeating the shaded tones and graphic choices throughout the cabin.

The Geneva Motor Show runs from 3-13 March.