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There's a distinct hierarchy in the big van sector, and in terms of sales, Peugeot's Boxer is near the bottom looking up. But does it deserve a hike up the ladder?
It may come as a shock to some, but Peugeot makes vans as well as cars, and not just small ones.
The recently launched - and TV advertised - Bipper has helped raise the French manufacturer's profile, as well as let the public know it exists outside the car world.
But even for those on 'Planet CV', think big vans and you don't necessarily think Peugeot. This is slightly unfair, since its products are identical to that of its sister company Citroën (both are part of the PSA Group), which thrashes it in the sales charts, and fiat, with which the group shares the development of three vehicles - in Peugeot's case the aforementioned Bipper, as well as the Expert and Boxer.
And it's this latter model we have for this week's test, with the key question being whether it really should be hanging around at the back of the class.
The Boxer comes with a plethora of variables to consider. Three GVWs - 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0tonnes - are matched by payloads that vary between 1,100kg and 2,000kg. There are also three wheelbases and roof heights to choose from, giving load volumes from 8m^sup 3^ to 17m^sup 3^.
Power comes from either a 2.2 HDi unit, which produces 100 or 120hp, or a three-litre powerplant with 157hp that is mated to a sixspeed manual box. And it's the latter option we've gone for. with the intention of assessing the worth, or not, of running a bigger engine.
Standard equipment includes one-touch electric windows, CD/radio, remote central locking and ABS with EBD, while options such as sat-nav, cruise control and rear parking sensors are also available.
On the outside, the front moulded bumper is a threepiece unit, allowing for simple replacement of an individual part if damage ensues, with further plastic strips down the side and on the rear corners designed to absorb any low-speed indiscretions.
The Boxer is also available in chassis and double-cab, for the 300 HDi...