The Peugeot Partner III Van 1.5 BlueHDi (131 hp) S&S Automatic is a commercial vehicle manufactured by Peugeot, beginning with the 2019 model year. It represents a significant evolution of the Partner van, belonging to the third generation (introduced in 2018) and sharing its platform with the Citroën Berlingo and Opel Combo. This specific variant, featuring the 1.5-liter BlueHDi diesel engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, was targeted towards businesses and tradespeople needing a practical, fuel-efficient, and relatively comfortable light commercial vehicle. It occupies a mid-range position within the Partner III lineup, balancing affordability and features compared to lower-powered or more specialized versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | Partner |
| Generation | Partner III Van |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 BlueHDi (131 Hp) S&S Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 94.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YHZ DV5RC |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3900 l (137.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 74 kg (163.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4403 mm (173.35 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2107 mm (82.95 in.) |
| Height | 1840-1860 mm (72.44 – 73.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 892 mm (35.12 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 726 mm (28.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.82 m (35.5 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.5-liter BlueHDi diesel engine, specifically the YHZ DV5RC engine code, powers this Partner Van variant. This engine is part of Peugeot’s BlueHDi range, engineered to meet the demanding Euro 6 emissions standards. It utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion efficiency. A turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, enhances power output and improves overall efficiency. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a sophisticated engine management system to strike a balance between performance and fuel economy. The Start & Stop system further contributes to fuel savings by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. An eight-speed automatic transmission is paired with this engine, providing smooth gear changes and enhancing drivability, particularly in urban environments. This transmission sets it apart from the more common manual transmission options found in other Partner models.
Driving Characteristics
The 131 hp BlueHDi engine, combined with the eight-speed automatic, delivers adequate performance for typical commercial van applications. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 10.2 seconds, and the top speed reaches around 114 mph. While not designed for sporty driving, the powertrain provides sufficient torque (300 Nm or 221 lb-ft) for hauling loads and navigating various terrains. The automatic transmission contributes to a more relaxed driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Compared to the lower-powered 1.5 BlueHDi variants, this version offers noticeably improved acceleration and overtaking capability. However, it doesn’t quite match the performance of the less common, petrol-powered options. The gear ratios are optimized for efficiency, prioritizing fuel economy over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Partner III Van 1.5 BlueHDi (131 hp) S&S Automatic typically included a range of practical features as standard. These generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard equipment. Higher trim levels offered optional features like rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, a navigation system, and upgraded interior trim. The interior is designed for durability and practicality, featuring hard-wearing materials and ample storage compartments. The van’s modular interior allows for flexible cargo configurations.
Chassis & Braking
The Partner III Van utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The suspension is tuned to handle the van’s typical payload without compromising ride quality.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot Partner III Van 1.5 BlueHDi (131 hp) S&S Automatic was generally well-received by critics and commercial vehicle operators. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior. The automatic transmission was a significant selling point for drivers who valued the convenience of not operating a clutch. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered a more refined driving experience, though with a slight trade-off in fuel economy. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit Connect, and Citroën Berlingo, the Partner offered a competitive package in terms of price, features, and running costs.
Legacy
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain, and the eight-speed automatic transmission has generally performed well over time. On the used car market, these vans are sought after for their practicality and fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and adherence to Peugeot’s service schedule, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. While diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues can occur in any modern diesel vehicle, proper maintenance and occasional long-distance drives can help prevent DPF blockages. The Partner III Van 1.5 BlueHDi (131 hp) S&S Automatic remains a popular choice for businesses and tradespeople seeking a dependable and cost-effective light commercial vehicle.
