Citroen Berlingo Multispace
Ratings
3 stars
Summary
Average. Van-based people carrier that offers plenty of space comes with a bargain pricetag.
Review
"People vans" are all the rage in Europe but they've never really caught on in the UK. But if you are looking for serious space and utility, and don't mind the light commercial underpinnings, then the Citroen Berlingo's bargain pricetag makes it a worthy of consideration.
The unpretentious styling makes no attempts to hide the Berlingo's origins as a van. The cabin is tough and durable-feeling, but without any of the sort of quality feel that you'd expect from a modern MPV and basic models are very, very basic.
At least there's plenty of space for both front and rear seat occupants, while the massive boot can be expanded into one of the largest load areas of any passenger car by lowering the rear seats.
The driving experience is also very van-like, with indifferent handling and lots of wind and road noise at higher speeds. At least the compliant ride is comfortable over rougher surfaces. Petrol engines need to be worked hard to make rapid progress, but the HDI diesel option gives reasonably punchy performance.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
2 star
It's a van. With windows.
Handling
2 star
Decent enough in town and at low speeds, but trying to press on results in lots of body roll and squealing tyres.
Comfort
3 star
Soft chassis settings help to smooth over bumps and bangs, but the upright driving position is uncomfortable over longer journeys and road and wind noise make cruising very loud.
Quality & Reliability
2 star
The interior is tough and feels durable, but it's not up to the standards of conventional MPVs in terms of materials quality.
Performance
3 star
The basic 1.4 litre petrol engine is really gutless - the HDI diesel is definitely the one to go for.
Roominess
5 star
In terms of sheer space you can't do better for anything like the money. Passengers have loads of room and the luggage capacity is appropriately van-like.
Running Costs
4 star
The Berlingo makes sense as an alternative to a conventional MPV for families on a tight budget. Insurance, fuel and servicing costs are all very competitive.
Value for money
4 star
Generous discounts mean the Berlingo offers amazingly good value compared to rivals .
