The Peugeot Rifter L1 1.2 PureTech 131 Automatic is a five-seat minivan produced from May 2019 to December 2021. Part of the first generation of the Rifter (introduced in 2018), the L1 designation indicates the short wheelbase version of the vehicle. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the Rifter lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. It was primarily marketed in Europe as a versatile family vehicle, competing with other compact MPVs like the Citroën Berlingo and Renault Kangoo, with which it shares a platform. The Rifter is based on the EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform 2) architecture, also used by Peugeot and Citroën for other models like the 308 and C4 Picasso.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | Rifter |
| Generation | Rifter L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (131 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| End of production | December, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 7.9-8.6 l/100 km (29.8 – 27.4 US mpg, 35.8 – 32.8 UK mpg, 12.7 – 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.2-7.3 l/100 km (37.9 – 32.2 US mpg, 45.6 – 38.7 UK mpg, 16.1 – 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.5-6.6 l/100 km (42.8 – 35.6 US mpg, 51.4 – 42.8 UK mpg, 18.2 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.9-8.5 l/100 km (34.1 – 27.7 US mpg, 40.9 – 33.2 UK mpg, 14.5 – 11.8 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.5-7.7 l/100 km (36.2 – 30.5 US mpg, 43.5 – 36.7 UK mpg, 15.4 – 13 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 156-173 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HNS EB2ADTS |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1428 kg (3148.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 662 kg (1459.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 775 l (27.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3000 l (105.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 74 kg (163.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4403 mm (173.35 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1921 mm (75.63 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2107 mm (82.95 in.) |
| Height | 1874-1878 mm (73.78 – 73.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1567 mm (61.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 892 mm (35.12 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 726 mm (28.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm (8.5 in.) |
| Approach angle | 17.5° |
| Departure angle | 25.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 95U; 215/60 R17 95U |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 ET47; 7.0J x 17 ET44 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Rifter L1 1.2 PureTech Automatic is powered by the PSA (now Stellantis) EB2ADTS engine, a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of the PureTech family, known for its direct injection and use of a turbocharger to enhance power and efficiency. The engine produces 131 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine utilizes a direct fuel injection system, which improves combustion efficiency and reduces emissions. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air intake, boosting power output. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle.
The transmission is an eight-speed automatic gearbox (Aisin DFN). This transmission was chosen for its smooth shifting and contribution to improved fuel economy compared to older automatic designs. The automatic transmission features a torque converter and electronic control for optimized gear selection based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 PureTech 131 Automatic Rifter L1 offers adequate performance for everyday driving. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient power for highway cruising and city driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.9 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing smooth and responsive acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual version generally delivers slightly better fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience. Compared to higher-powered Rifter variants (like those with diesel engines), this version feels less energetic, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rifter L1 1.2 PureTech 131 Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Standard safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Rifter L1 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a twist-beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for carrying passengers and cargo. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are also discs. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance. The vehicle’s relatively lightweight construction contributes to its agility and handling. The standard tire size is 215/65 R16 or 215/60 R17, depending on the trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot Rifter L1 1.2 PureTech Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics for its practicality, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.2-liter engine could feel strained when the vehicle was fully loaded or driving uphill. Fuel economy was considered good for a vehicle of its size and type, with combined WLTP figures ranging from 6.5 to 7.7 l/100 km. Compared to diesel-powered Rifter variants, this petrol version offered lower CO2 emissions but slightly higher running costs due to the higher price of gasoline in many European markets. The Rifter competed effectively with other compact MPVs, offering a compelling combination of features and value.
Legacy
The Peugeot Rifter L1 1.2 PureTech Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The 1.2 PureTech engine, while having experienced some early issues with timing chain wear in other PSA vehicles, has generally proven to be robust when properly maintained. The eight-speed automatic transmission is also considered reliable. The Rifter’s spacious interior and practical features continue to make it a popular choice for families and those needing a versatile vehicle. As a used car, it represents good value for money, offering a comfortable and practical driving experience at an affordable price point.
