Van trio loads up on versatility

Here are three of a kind! Fiat, Peu­geot and Citroen have teamed up to produce these funky-looking vans which are likely to spawn MPV-like passenger versions.

Each has its own unique face and name – the Fiat is called Fironio, the Peugeot Blipper and the Citroen Nemo. Other than that they are virtually identical. They have a number of clever ideas to increase their capacity, including a stowable passenger seat that creates a load length of 2.5 metres and a maximum storage volume of 2.4 cubic metres.

Large barn-style rear doors and sliding side openings make access to the cargo area simple. Each model comes with power-steering, ABS and the latest safety kit as standard, while features such as parking sensors and separate cabin locking are on the options list. Both petrol and diesel powerplants will be available.

The 1.4-litre oil-burner emits only 119g/km of CO2, so qualifies for tax band B, and will be exempt from the London Congestion Charge under pro­posed changes which are due to be introduced next year.