Geneva 2018: Peugeot Rifter 4x4 Concept - Back To Basics Off-Roader

Peugeot will unveil its Rifter 4x4 Concept vehicle at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. Unlike most concept cars which are shiny and futuristic, the Rifter 4x4 Concept – based on Peugeot's latest van-based MPV of the same name – takes a practical shell and pairs it with off-road components to create a back-to-basics vehicle that can go anywhere. 

Fitted with off-road specific tyres by BF Goodrich, and an all-wheel drive system developed with off-road specialist Dangel, the Rifter 4x4 Concept is in its element on gravel, mud, snow, and stony trails. In addition, its 80mm ground clearance allows it to clear most obstacles.

The 4x4 transmission uses a viscous coupling which can be activated via a selector that is located to the right of the gear lever. There are 3 driving modes:

• The 2RM mode leaves the Rifter in front-wheel drive mode for everyday trips
• In 4RM mode, the transmission powers all four wheels in case of loss of motor function
• the Lock mode, locks the rear axle, which is useful for extreme travel and crossing bridges

The Rifter is powered by Peugeot’s 1.5-litre BlueHDi 130 turbodiesel engine which produces a substantial 300Nm torque, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox.

In terms of aesthetics, the Rifter 4x4 Concept is jazzed up with matte-black trim on the front grille. boot, and tailgate section to boast a more rugged look. Along the flanks, the Rifter 4x4 Concept features Onyx black 'varnished' 16-inch wheels.

The interior boasts a rugged feel, with seats finished in a combination of grey textile with black Alcantara. The Peugeot i-Cockpit architecture features a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and is highlighted by satin grey trim items.

Fitted just above the windscreen is a powerful 1.35m-wide light-bar, fitted with 100 LED lights over 2 rows with a total output of 300W.

Another party-piece of the Rifter is its “Overland” tent developed by Autohome; the tent simply needs to be unfolded from its housing, located on the roof bars. Peugeot claims the roof bars comply with the “City Crash Test” standard and can bear “’all types of loads”. The tent is accessed with a sliding ladder which is affixed to the roof section. The tent's mattress textile matches that of the seats inside the car.

For the last part of the adventure, the Rifter Concept is supplied with a Peugeot eM02 FS Powertube electric mountain bike, which features a compact battery integrated into the frame, providing a fluid and streamlined style. The bike is stored at the rear, on a mount with a quick-release tow-ball coupling.