Reviews - Citroën

Overall Rating

Citroen have made a significant impact in the panel van sector with their Relay model. Panel van buying decisions are complex due to the huge numbers of variations in which each van can be specified so it's imperative as a used van buyer to shop around for the requirements you need.

• Large choice of models
• Modern efficient engines
• Roomy interior

• Complex choice problem in second hand market

The Citroen Relay is offered in a perplexing number of different varieties. This makes looking for your used panel van with the requirements that fit your needs extremely tiring. There are three basic models, the 1100, 1500 and 1800. These are divided on the basis of their gross vehicle weights (2.9t, 3.3t and 3.5t respectively). Once you've decided on your basic model you have four wheelbases to choose from - short, medium, long and extra long depending on your load lengths. Then it's the van body which comes in three heights - standard, high roof and extra high roof. There is the choice of a window van, chassis cabs, chassis crew cabs, platform cabs, chassis scuttles and chassis semi-scuttles. This is all without any extra additions the seller might have included. On the plus side this can lead to some fantastic bargains as a used van buyer if you can find your perfect van. Engines come in 2.0-litre HDi diesel with its 86bhp, 2.2 HDi 104bhp and the powerful 2.8HDi that can generate 127bhp at 3,600rpm. Also a one off 2.0-litre petrol unit with 110bhp. All engines are modern efficient and fairly trouble free leading to cost effective motoring. Functionality is the main directive for this van but in the looks stakes there is a thick front bumper and rubber strips along the side helping to prevent expensive bills for damaged bodywork. Inside the three-seat cabin is fitted with tough plastics and well-placed, idiot-proof controls. The dash-mounted gear lever makes moving around easier and there is quite a bit of storage space including a neat drink holder. Central locking, electric front windows and heated, electrically adjustable, door mirrors are standard. Upgrades in newer models include an increase in gross vehicle weight to 4 tonnes. Wider choice of loading volumes between 8m3 and 17 m3. Robust, rounded front end and a larger choice of colours. Trafficmaster Smartnav GPS Satellite Navigation and Trackstar stolen vehicle tracking systems have been fitted to help theft prevention as standard.

The range is huge, so you can specify the size of Relay Van that your business needs but this can cause headaches as a used buyer. Good fuel efficient engines. If looking to buy a used panel van think hard on what you need your van to do and then dive in to try to find that perfect partner.