Peugeot is aiming to replicate the success of Mercedes, Volkswagen and Ford by introducing a VIP shuttle/MPV model on a platform which will also be used for a medium van.

The Peugeot Traveller will compete head-on with 8/9-seater luxury minibuses such as the Mercedes Vito Tourer and Viano, Ford’s Tourneo Custom and the VW Transporter Shuttle and Caravelle.

The new vehicle will be based on Peugeot’s Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2), which will also be used by Citroen and Toyota. Power will be provided by Euro 6 BlueHDi diesel engines, fitted with both Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR/Adblue systems) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF). Options offering up to 180hp and 400Nm of torque will be available.

Buyers will be able to choose from internal configurations offering up to 9 seats and 1,500 litres of boot space. The Traveller will be available in three lengths, from 4.6m – 5.3m and with an unusual roof height of 1.9m. This means that the Traveller will be able to enter the vast majority of height-restricted car parks, unlike its peers.

The Traveller range will be built around two main ranges, each of which be available in two trim levels:

• For private individuals, a Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) with Active and Allure trim levels available in 5, 7 or 8 seat versions;
• For professional people carriers, the shuttle with Business trim levels is available (in 5 to 9 seat versions) and the range-topping Business Plus is available in 6 or 7 seat versions.

The range-topping Traveller Business Plus will offer four leather armchairs and, tri-zone climate control and all the luxury extras you would expect in a VIP shuttle.

Inside the Peugeot Traveller Business Plus VIP shuttle

Other features relatively unusual features that will be available on the Traveller include hands-free sliding side doors, head-up display and road sign reading system for the driver, plus an opening tailgate rear window and a glass roof panel.