What's the difference?
Peugeot Australia offers variants across the small, medium and large commercial van segments. Its largest model, the manual-only Boxer 160 which in 2020 features improved safety and warranty, competes in the LD (light duty) 3501-8000kg GVM class.
We recently put it to the test during a busy working week, to find out if it can land a few punches on its opponents in Australia’s heavy commercial vehicle division.
This is actually the Carnival that Kia always wanted.
See, the last Carnival, the one this replaces, was Covid compromised, missing out on key technologies, as well as skipping an in-depth ride and handling localisation program, due to part supply issues and a freeze on international travel.
This one, though, addresses all of that, which is why you get a new cabin experience, new tech, and a complete overhaul of the steering and handling.
It is, however, significantly more expensive, right across the range.
So, is the Carnival still worth it? Let’s find out.
It has its faults like any vehicle but it’s a competent all-rounder, that combines sub-$50K pricing with a big payload capacity, mostly user-friendly design, improved safety and a compelling warranty. It also faces stiff competition in the 3501-8000kg GVM class, particularly from rivals with an automatic option.Â
Ok, here's the rub. Everything you just read could well be pointless. You like the Carnival. In fact, it sometimes makes up close to 90 per cent of the sales in its segment, and outsells all of its competitors combined.
So whether I like it or not, I suspect you'll be buying one anyway.
But I can say this - the new Carnival improves the formula right across the board. Well, everything except for price.