2019 Peugeot Partner III Van Long 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) S&S Automatic

Technical Specifications

The Peugeot Partner III Van Long 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) S&S Automatic is a commercial vehicle produced by the French manufacturer Peugeot, beginning with the 2019 model year. It represents a mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation Partner van, falling within the broader range of light commercial vehicles (LCVs) offered by Peugeot. This specific variant, equipped with the 1.5-liter BlueHDi diesel engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, was aimed at businesses and tradespeople requiring a practical, fuel-efficient, and relatively comfortable work vehicle. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase version, providing increased cargo capacity compared to the standard-length Partner III. It is built on the EMP2 platform, shared with other Peugeot and Citroën vehicles.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of this Partner Van Long is the 1.5-liter BlueHDi diesel engine, specifically the YHZ DV5RC variant. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a common-rail direct fuel injection system. The BlueHDi technology incorporates a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, utilizing AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, ensuring compliance with stringent Euro 6 emission standards. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine produces 131 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to improved fuel economy. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting to driving conditions and driver input.

Driving Characteristics

The 1.5 BlueHDi engine with the eight-speed automatic transmission delivers a balance between usability and efficiency. While not a performance-oriented setup, the 131 hp output provides adequate power for typical commercial applications, including city driving and highway cruising with a moderate load. The automatic transmission eliminates the need for manual gear changes, reducing driver fatigue, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.9 seconds. The eight-speed gearbox helps keep the engine within its optimal torque band, contributing to responsive acceleration. Compared to manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers slightly reduced fuel economy due to transmission losses, but the convenience factor is often prioritized by drivers.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Partner III Van Long 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) S&S Automatic typically came equipped with a range of standard features geared towards practicality and driver comfort. These included air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, electric front windows, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of a Start & Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to save fuel. Optional extras could include a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. The van’s interior is designed for durability and ease of cleaning, with hard-wearing plastics and practical storage solutions.

Chassis & Braking

The Partner III Van Long utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The vehicle’s suspension is tuned to prioritize stability when carrying a load, and the brakes are adequately sized for the vehicle’s weight.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Peugeot Partner III Van Long 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) S&S Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and efficient commercial vehicle. Its fuel economy of around 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg) was a significant selling point, particularly for businesses concerned about operating costs. Compared to higher-powered versions of the Partner, this variant offered a more affordable entry point, albeit with slightly reduced performance. Compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Caddy, Citroën Berlingo, and Ford Transit Connect, the Partner offered a competitive package in terms of price, fuel efficiency, and cargo capacity. Reliability reports suggest that the BlueHDi engine is generally robust, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity.

Legacy

The Peugeot Partner III Van Long 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) S&S Automatic remains a popular choice in the used commercial vehicle market. Its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and relatively low running costs makes it an attractive option for small businesses and tradespeople. The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be reasonably reliable, although potential buyers should be aware of the importance of maintaining the AdBlue system and ensuring regular servicing. The availability of spare parts is generally good, and the vehicle’s relatively simple construction makes it relatively easy to repair. As a workhorse vehicle, the Partner III continues to provide dependable service for many years after its initial production run.