Peugeot Partner Rapid Is Fiat Fiorino’s Twin LCV For Brazil

Stellantis is all about electrification but in parts of the world where budget-friendly models are vital for automakers, pure ICE is alive and kicking. This is the case with Peugeot’s latest LCV called Partner Rapid, which is actually a rebadged version of the Brazilian-spec Fiat Fiorino.

Let’s start by clarifying that the South American Peugeot Partner Rapid is a completely different vehicle from the EU-spec Partner / Rifter. Unlike the EMP2-based LCV that has recently gone EV-only in Europe and the UK, the “Rapid” prefix brings an aging platform that dates back to the Fiat Uno from 2010, although it has received some updates since.

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Under the bonnet lies the latest version of the naturally aspirated 1.4 EVO Flex four-cylinder eight-valve engine. The mill produces 84 hp (61.8 kW) and 116 Nm (85.6 lb-ft) when running on gasoline, or up to 86 hp (63.2 kW) and 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft) of torque when running on ethanol. Power is sent to the front axle through a five-speed manual gearbox.

What is more important for LCV buyers is the cargo capacity of 650 kg (1,433 pounds) and the cargo space volume of 3.3 cubic meters (116.5 cubic feet) thanks to the old-school boxy shape of the rear end. Design-wise, the Peugeot Partner Rapid does little to hide its ties with the Fiat Fiorino. The two models are identical, besides the different grille, the Peugeot badges and the Rapid lettering on the side mouldings.

See Also: Brazil’s Fiat Uno Ciao Is A Limited-Production Farewell To An Iconic Nameplate

The same goes for the interior, where the pretty basic dashboard incorporates a screen-less look. Buyers who want modern luxuries like air-conditioning, power steering and electric windows should opt for the Business Pack trim since the entry-level Business gets none of those. In terms of infotainment, the only option is to visit an aftermarket specialist since the LCV doesn’t even come with a radio.

The Peugeot Partner Rapid is already available in Brazil with prices starting from 101,390 Brazilian Real ($20,046). This makes it slightly more expensive than the Fiat Fiorino which starts from 99,990 Brazilian Real ($19,795) in the same market. Mind you, there is a third sibling to the family, the Ram ProMaster Rapid, which is reserved for specific markets in South America like Mexico.