21/11/2008

Citroen Berlingo Multispace

Average. The new Berlingo is a good value, spacious and practical alternative to an MPV. The only thing that lets it down is it's just not that cool.

There's a steadily growing market for vehicles like the Berlingo, particularly as families are beginning to seek alternative options to the ever-thirsty SUV. And the Berlingo does offer just that. The new Multispace has been based around the Citroen C4 Picasso and, like the larger MPV, offers a comfortable ride. It is easy to drive too, and the driving position offers plenty of adjustment. Although it's unlikely that buyers of this vehicle will be looking for excellent handling ability, the new Berlingo is competent around corners without ever really concealing the fact that it is based on a van. There are five engines available; two petrol and three diesels. The pick of the bunch is the new 1.6 HDi 110bhp - a product of a PSA-Peugeot Citroen/Ford collaboration - which offers decent performance with a combined fuel economy of 50.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 147g/km. However, the downside is that it only comes available as a top of the range option with the XTR trim, costing £14,625.

The Berlingo's cabin is both bright and spacious with good visibility for both the front and rear passengers. Twin sliding doors for the rear passengers allow easy access into the cabin and at the rear is a large tailgate with an independently opening window. The Berlingo has bags of interior space, with endless cubby holes and storage compartments. The rear seats can also be removed completely giving the new Berlingo a massive 3,000 litres of storage space. The optional Modutop roof - which was available on the previous version - has been given an upgrade and provides front and central over-head compartments as well as a power socket. The Modutop can also be fitted with internal roof bars which can carry longer items - such as skis - which is a neat trick made possible by the height of the Berlingo. It is available on the VTR and XTR trim for an extra £550. There are three trim levels to choose from; the entry-level VT, VTR and XTR and each comes with a good amount of standard equipment. Optional extras have been sorted into packages which are excellent value for money and are easier to choose from. The visibility pack for example can be added for £390 and includes auto windscreen wipers and headlamps and heat reflecting windscreen.

The new Berlingo represents decent value for money, with prices starting from approximately £11,000 for the 1.6i 90bhp VT. The exterior has been given a fresher look, with the familiar front grille to bring it in line with the rest of the Citroen range, and a chunkier front end. However, we'd recommend avoiding the XTR trim-level which adds "rugged" - Citroen's word, not ours - exterior styling. This includes tinted windows, side rubbing strips and an increased ride height, but the front looks like a patchwork quilt with black and silver coloured body sections.

Overall it's certainly a smarter vehicle than its predecessor - which Citroen will continue to sell alongside the new Berlingo as a cheaper alternative - but ultimately it will suit families who are looking for space and practicality over style.

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