The Peugeot Expert is a trusty, tough and versatile van. Compact for the city and comfortable for long journeys, it's an improvement on the model it replaces and is identical in many respects to the Dispatch and Scudo that are available from Citroen and Fiat. Expert's three diesels and three combinations of two wheelbase and two roof height versions makes it a strong rival to entry-level versions of large panel vans. The interior is roomy and considerately laid-out while the biggest Expert model has a cargo capacity of seven cubic metres and a 1200kg payload.
Expert has plenty of thoughtful features for those spending their working days behind the wheel. The large glovebox is lit and lockable, and even air-conditioned on higher-spec models. There are plenty of deep cubby holes, two pop-out drinks holders on the dashboard and the door bins can hold 1.5-litre bottles. The cab is very spacious for two passengers. But elbow room is limited with three on board, legroom in the middle is badly impeded by the gearlever and the central seat is quite slim. Children or young apprentices should be fine but three stocky workers may soon find it too close for comfort. Interior plastics feel durable and the basic audio and ventilation controls are simple to use. Works documents and jackets can be stored in the overhead compartments. Visibility is helped by Expert's huge windscreen and drivers have a commanding view of the road. The large, electrically-adjustable door mirrors prove very useful when reversing into tight parking spots
Expert offers three diesel engines: a 90bhp 1.6-litre; or a 2.0-litre in two power outputs, 120bhp and 136bhp. The entry-level 1.6 is a little noisy at speed, but capable of working hard on the motorway for long spells. Expert has plenty of low-down power and well-spaced gears, making it easy to pull away at low speed. The gearchange is effortless and precise. Light power-steering helps in the city but bodyroll is noticeable on roundabouts. Three-point turns need to be carefully executed in models without rear parking sensors.