Next Trajet slides into view

By Ross Pinnock

03rd January 2006

At the front, a large trapezoidal grille sits between a pair of fashionable clear-lens headlamps - although we understand bigger lights than those pictured are likely for the production version. The curving bonnet line runs from the top of the grille to the base of the A-pillars, giving the Trajet a crisp and clean appearance.

The car's simple flanks feature Peugeot 807-style door handles, which meet at the leading edge of the rear doors. Further back, the runners for the new powered doors are unmistakable, and there is a conventional tailgate following up at the rear. A pair of roofbars boost practicality, while the large glass area will ensure a light and airy cabin for drivers and passengers.

This latest Trajet is both wider and longer than the current model, so will easily seat seven courtesy of three sets of chairs. Behind a folding, tumbling second row, the rearmost pair are ex-pected to fold flat into the floor. Petrol power will come from a V6 engine, while the 2.9 CRTD oil-burner fitted to the firm's Terracan off-roader is also likely to feature.

When the MPV hits showrooms, it will go head-to-head with more mainstream models such as the all-new Ford Galaxy. An official launch date is yet to be confirmed, but the newcomer is expected to debut later this year. It shares its underpinnings with the next-generation Kia Sedona, which is due to arrive soon.