Peugeot Rifter

FIRST UK DRIVE Does van-basedMPVadd up on UK roads?

- Alex Ingram

NEW cars often attempt to master so many areas that they end up not quite nailing any single one.

But that can’t be said of the Peugeot Rifter: a people carrier whose sole focus is exceptional practicality.It’ s one of three new van-based MPVs from the PSA Group, sitting alongside the Citroen Berlingo and Vauxhall Combo Life. Where the Berlingo takes on a typically-quirky Citroen look, and the Vauxhall appears to adopt no particular style at all, the Rifter gets a selection of SUV-inspired touches. But no amount of cladding can disguise its boxy profile.

Yet it’s that square shape that means little else on the road is so practical. Inside, there’s plenty of space for five adults. Or, if you’ve got kids, the car has room for three child seats across the back; all of which can be secured by their own individual ISOFIX mounts. There’s also an XL model, which adds an extra pair of seats in the boot.