Peugeot 206 Van (00-06) - Review

The 206 Van puts in a strong performance with a 525kg payload and a 1130 litre load area with a maximum length of 1280mm. The load area is flat and free of intrusion from wheel arches. The boot has a 1100mm wide opening with only a small lip to clear. Theoretically, a standard-sized pallet would fit, but there wouldn’t be room for a fork-lift to load or unload it. There are four anchorage points for securing cargo. A full-size rear bulkhead is available as a no-cost option, otherwise it has a one-third-height barrier to prevent items sliding into the cabin.

A driver’s airbag is fitted as standard, but a passenger airbag is optional. The brakes are fitted with anti-lock (ABS) so the driver can steer in an emergency braking situation without the wheels skidding. The hazard warning lights come on automatically if you brake very sharply too. Remote central locking is fitted along with an immobiliser, but an alarm is optional.

With the 1.4HDi engine, the 206 is very economical - 65mpg is possible. From October 2004, service intervals were extended from 12,000 to 20,000 miles or every two years, which is as good as it gets for the class. The 206 is not the cheapest van on the market, but it does hold its value slightly better than its rivals thanks mainly to those good looks.

Warranty cover meets class expectations. Peugeot provides a two-year unlimited-mileage warranty, with dealers providing a third year. This third year of cover is dependent upon proper servicing and it doing no more than 60,000 miles from new. Breakdown cover (provided by the AA) is offered for the first year of its life only. The Peugeot 206 is not immune to problems although in most cases they are minor. It’s almost certain to develop a few squeaks and rattles over time.