Peugeot Bipper Tepee Outdoor HDi 70

Commercial-based MPVs are something of a Peugeot speciality, with the Expert and Partner Tepee models offering generous accommodation and equipment at high value prices. Now there is a third model joining the line up in the form of the Bipper Tepee. Based on the Bipper van, the Bipper Tepee brings the same big space and big value but in a supermini-sized form.

One look at the Bipper illustrates its place in the market. With a very high roofline, squared-off flanks and a vertical rear tailgate, the Bipper makes the most of its relatively compact footprint to give maximum cabin space, putting it in contention with the most practical cars at this end of the market. Although the Bipper is based on its commercial counterpart, the Outdoor version in particular has sufficient personality to stand out as a model in its own right.

The Bipper is intended to be a high value MPV, and as such comes in just two trim levels and with two engine options. The entry-level S version is priced in line with mid-range superminis, and hence is a viable alternative for buyers on a limited budget whilst offering superior space and practicality. Above this lies the Outdoor model, which is distinguished by raised suspension, larger body protection, an under-body engine protection plate, lower front panel trim, roof bars and front fog lights.

Inside the Bipper is designed to offer a high level of practicality. The layout of the cabin is simple but attractive and looks sufficiently sturdy to endure the stern test that family life will inflict upon it. The seating position in the front is quite high and upright, while those in the rear row are seated higher still, offering an excellent view out. The high roof means that there is a massive amount of headroom despite the high seating position.

Beyond the rear seats lies a generous load area, accessed through the wide tailgate that opens to a near-horizontal level for easy loading. Although only designed to carry five people, the Bipper has numerous storage areas and the versatility to adapt the load area in order to further increase its carrying capacity.

Our verdict on the Peugeot Bipper Tepee Outdoor HDi 70

Buyers looking for maximum space for minimal outlay will find a lot to like in the Bipper Tepee. It makes full use of its footprint, and its commercial origins pay dividends in terms of space efficiency and practicality. The driving experience is sufficient and nothing more, but the strong economy and low running costs add up to a great value package.

Costs

The Bipper should prove to be a very cheap car to purchase and run. Although slightly more expensive to purchase, the diesel version is capable of excellent economy figures, while its very low emissions also means it costs very little in terms of vehicle excise duty, which is good for the environment too.

Space and practicality

This is the Bipper's trump card and, although not a large car, it makes good use of its footprint. Front seat occupants have head and legroom in spades and, although in the rear there is less legroom, headroom is also in great supply. The rear load area is also usefully big even with the seats up. Attention has clearly been paid to space efficiency, with numerous pockets and storage spaces throughout the cabin.

Controls and display

The layout of the Bipper is fairly straightforward, with attractive dials with simple white on black markings, and the centre console is also easy to understand on first acquaintance. The comprehensive trip computer takes a little getting used to, but otherwise the features contained within the Bipper can be mastered even by the most hardened technophobe.

Comfort

For a relatively small car the Bipper is quite a comfortable machine. The ride quality is decent, absorbing a fair amount of road imperfections thanks to the raised suspension on the Outdoor model and although ultimate refinement is hampered by road noise, the Bipper is sufficiently insulated for longer journeys.

Car security

The Bipper comes as standard with remote central locking including deadlocks, while an alarm system is available as an option. The load area is also covered by a sturdy parcel shelf which does a good job of hiding any valuable items.

Car safety

All Bippers comes with six airbags as standard, as well as ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution. One option that does not appear is ESP, which is an unfortunate omission even on a car at this end of the price scale.

Driver appeal

The Bipper is an undemanding car to drive in many respects, with a slick gearbox and light power steering. Visibility is also good which is a useful safety feature and helps the driver in traffic and on the open road. Performance is sufficient but nothing more however, and anyone taking advantage of its generous load capacity may find it lacks sufficient power.

Family car appeal

The Bipper is an ideal family vehicle, with the ability to pack a family and their luggage into a small footprint. Isofix child seat anchorages are fitted to both the rear seats, while the view out from the second row would be a hit with children.

First car appeal

The Bipper, although more practical than many first car buyers would need, actually fits the bill quite well. Choose the right exterior colour and it has an interesting appearance, will be cheap to buy and insure and is undemanding to drive. It also has a good specification for a new driver: a good stereo and power steering would appeal to the inexperienced.

Quality and image

The Bipper's quality is good, although it may not look expensive throughout, most of the surfaces that the occupants come in to contact with are more than adequate. The image is shaped largely by its looks, which are unusual and attractive. Peugeot's reputation for desirable small cars helps here and the Bipper gains credibility from the Peugeot badge.

Accessibility

Getting in and out of the Bipper is a very simple task, largely thanks to the high roofline. Those in the front seats have large door apertures to get through, while those at the rear benefit from the use of sliding doors. In the load area, the tailgate opens easily although it requires a reasonable amount of space to open fully due to its length.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

Both Bipper models come with a basic radio CD system which can play MP3 CDs, although there is no capacity to link to an iPod or MP3 player. Sound quality is adequate, and it also lacks remote steering wheel controls which many of its rivals offer.

Colours and trim

The Bipper comes in a choice of eight exterior colours, including some vibrant shades. These bolder colours are well suited to the Bipper and highlight its unusual styling. Inside is more conservative, although there are some flashes of the exterior colour on the doors so a well chosen exterior paint provides a boost inside too.

Parking

The Bipper is a very easy car to park thanks to the boxy proportions and good visibility. The short overhangs make it easy to judge and, although parking sensors are only optional, it's easy to park without them.

Spare wheel

Full size spare wheel located beneath the boot floor.

Range information

Petrol engine option - 1.4-litre (75bhp). Diesel engine option - 1.4-litre (68bhp). Transmission options: five-speed manual gearbox as standard. Trim levels: S and Outdoor.

Alternative cars

Citroen Berlingo Multispace Large, practical and excellent value

Peugeot Partner Tepee Handsome, spacious and easy to drive

Nissan Note Supermini-based, better to drive though smaller inside

Vauxhall Meriva Ageing but practical, decent specification