Peugeot Boxer vs Peugeot e-Boxer
Automotive manufacturers have been working tirelessly to design electric vans that provide a viable alternative to diesel. One such van is the Peugeot e-Boxer, an all-electric version of the popular Boxer van.
As with most electric vehicles, the Peugeot e-Boxer is more expensive to buy outright but has lower running costs and qualifies for various government grants designed to encourage the uptake of more sustainable vehicles. Additionally, both the Boxer and e-Boxer are available on finance from Van Sales UK, which can be a more affordable and cost-effective solution.
While both vans have plenty to offer, one of them might be slightly better suited to your requirements. If you’re unsure whether the e-Boxer can manage longer journeys or the diesel Boxer can meet your payload needs, we can help you decide which is right for you. Read on for a comprehensive comparison of their key metrics and components.
Engines and Spec
With numerous configurations on offer, this van is suitable for a variety of applications. The Peugeot Boxer comes in both panel and window models, with four body lengths, three wheelbases, and three heights to choose from. The e-Boxer, on the other hand, is available in three different lengths but with just one height option. The payload for each of these stands at 1070kg, 740kg, and 1150kg respectively.
Newer Peugeot Boxers are fitted with 2.2-litre BlueHDI engines, first introduced in July 2019. These provide much more power than their predecessors, feature stop-start as standard, and are compliant with the Euro 6D-Temp (or Euro 6.2) emissions regulations. The Peugeot e-Boxer runs on a fully electric battery, with the option of a 37 kWh (L2 panel configuration only) or 75 kWh battery. These allow drivers to travel 73 or 154 miles respectively on a full charge – an impressive range in comparison to other electric vans.
To go from 0% to 100%, the e-Boxer will need to be connected to a standard 7.4kW Wallbox charger for approximately 12 hours, though it will be quicker if you haven’t run down the battery completely. Most e-Boxer drivers can simply charge their van overnight and go about their day as normal the next morning.
Unfortunately, the Peugeot Boxer is often surpassed by its competitors when it comes to driving experience, although the new engines have certainly helped on this front. Nonetheless, the diesel-powered Boxer still produces a significant amount of noise inside the cab, regardless of your speed. If this is likely to bother you, you might be better off opting for the electric model, which provides a much quieter and smoother ride.
As a large van, you might have some trouble with the Boxer’s handling, particularly when travelling on uneven roads, at high speeds, or in adverse conditions. This can make long journeys somewhat challenging and tiring, so is certainly worth bearing in mind when choosing the right van for your requirements.
Interior
To make up for the slightly disappointing driving experience, the Peugeot Boxer and e-Boxer offer a very car-like interior, providing more than enough space for three passengers to travel comfortably. The gearstick and handbrake are positioned differently than usual, leaving the middle-seat passenger with lots of legroom and making the van easier for the driver to operate.
In our opinion, the comfort level of the Peugeot e-Boxer is fairly average in comparison to other vans. However, it boasts a number of intuitive and convenient features that help to improve the overall driving experience. One such feature is using ‘Drive’, ‘Neutral’ and ‘Reverse’ buttons to control the transmission, rather than the slightly stiff and reluctant gearstick found in the fuel-powered version.
Additionally, the rearview mirror features a screen display that clearly shows the driver a host of helpful information, such as the remaining battery percentage, the corresponding range, and the van’s current driving mode. The Boxer and e-Boxer also boast ample interior storage, new audio systems, and a 5” touchscreen infotainment display with an integrated navigation system, as well as a number of optional safety features.
The Verdict
Though it doesn’t surpass its closest competitors in a few key areas, the Peugeot Boxer is still a trusty van and should be considered a solid contender in the large van market. Admittedly, it is noisy and can be quite tiring to drive, but it simultaneously offers some of the best payloads of any 3.5-tonne van, remarkable fuel economy, and affordable upfront cost. If any of these factors are particularly important to you, there’s no reason not to seriously consider the Boxer for your next van purchase.
On the other hand, if you’re in the market for an electric van that promises fast charging, good range, a variety of configurations to choose from, and a smooth driving experience, the Peugeot e-Boxer might be the right choice for you. This van allows you to reduce running costs and minimise your carbon footprint, without sacrificing space or convenience. With a classic exterior design and all the expected features on the inside, the Peugeot e-Boxer is an evolved and intuitive variation of the classic van. To learn more, take a look at our full-length review.
If you’re still unsure whether the diesel or electric model is right for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at Van Sales UK. We’ll be happy to discuss your needs and offer expert guidance to help you find the best van for your requirements.
