Reviews - Citroën

Overall Rating

Berlingo has proved to be a huge success for Citroen, and with revisions taking place. Berlingo has managed to keep up with rivals and retain a modern look although the recent facelift of big bumpers has done nothing to improve the looks this van is a quality practical work horse.

• Good engine range including two green options
• Lots of configuration choice
• Modern asthetics on the front

• Base model low on spec
• Early models have cheap interior
• Rear not revised so a little out-dated

The original Berlingo model had cheap looking interior, and the front quickly looked outdated. Both these issues have been fixed in revised models. Although this isn't the best looking van it belies a great work horse built for practicality rather than style. There is plenty of room for two people up front and the seats are comfy over long distances with fabric upgraded to give a better look in newer models. The fixed height driver's seat is very upright and although not un-comfortable does not allow flexibility although to counteract the adjustable steering wheel helps but does take a few attempts to get in a comfy position. The folding passenger seat in LX and Enterprise models folds down to provide a working area with elastic strap to hold paperwork and the inside includes cup holders with two by the gear stick and one by the handbrake. The main appeal of the Berlingo though is it's engine range, and choice of access configurations. The load space is well shaped and there is enough room between the wheel arches to take a standard pallet plus additional room front and rear for additional items. The doors open to 180 degrees to allow easy access with a forklift. New, you can specify lifting tailgate, single or double sliding doors and a choice of weight payload to name a few. The used buyer would do well to shop around for the configuration to best suit your business needs. Available in five engines; 1.4i petrol 75 hp petrol engine, 1.9D 71 hp diesel, 2.0Hdi, 1.4i duel fuel and 28kW electric. The later two engines are great for the pocket, as well as the environment. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and emergency brake assist (EBA) in Enterprise editions are a positive in wet conditions and when small or no loads. Power assisted steering works well giving a good degree of control although tends to under steer slightly in the 2 litre HDi model. All models cope well under speed on either motorways or B roads. All models apart from base 600D X, have electric windows and mirrors, remote central looking, radio/cassette, and intelligent locks that automatically lock you in at 6mph. Enterprise adds ABS brakes, EBS and a CD player.

For more details and other van news check out van-news.co.uk

A comfortable practical van with good load space. Excellent fuel economy and great engine power. Efforts to make it look more stylish are still off the mark.