What's the news?
Citroen has just revealed a new Dispatch and this new model looks to be a big step forward from the ageing one it replaces. The new Dispatch has a shorter nose and overall is a much sleeker looking machine. It is built on a modular platform that allows for a greater variety of body styles. These will include three lengths (XS: 4.60m, M: 4.95m and XL: 5.30m) along with double cab, which can carry up to six passengers (available in M and XL only) and flatbed variants, as well as a combi nine-seat passenger model.
The new platform allows the new Dispatch the ability to carry a payload of up to 1,400kg and 6.6 cubic metres while the towing capacity is rated at up to 2.5 tonnes. Both the XS and M versions benefit from a 1.90m height making it easy for them to access most car parks.
In all there will be a total of six engines available across the Dispatch range. These will start with a BlueHDi 95 diesel, which will produce 95hp and 210Nm and is said to use 5.5 litres/100km. An automatic transmission will also be available with this engine that can then facilitate a start-stop system. A slightly more powerful BlueHDi 115 diesel that includes start-stop with a manual gearbox is likely to be a popular choice with Irish buyers too. This engine produces 115hp and 300Nm and according to Citroen's figures consumes 5.1 litres/100km.
Up front the cabin will feature seating for three with an individual driver's seat. It will also be possible to specify the outward passenger seat with a flip-up base that can accommodate longer loads of up to four metres in length through a large flap in the bulkhead. The side doors can be electrically operated as an option and are also large enough to allow for a euro pallet to be loaded through them.
The driving position is now higher too and the all-new interior provides multiple storage areas, plus an optional seven-inch touchscreen that features Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink for easy smartphone connectivity. Inside, there are new and hard-wearing materials that offer a higher quality look and finish than before. Other systems such as a head-up display for the driver and an automatic high beam function can be added as options.
Pricing for the new Citroen Dispatch is yet to be confirmed.