More than a van with windows?
The original Berlingo Multispace was little more than a van with windows and was marketed as a value alternative to more established and larger players in the market which included the Renault Scenic and Citroen's larger Xsara Picasso. The new version is bigger and because it's now based on the underpinnings of the latest C4 Picasso MPV, it should be more car-like to drive. It's affordable too, with prices starting from £10,995.
Current Citroen design language
The squarer styling of its predecessor has given way to sharp features, similar in design to the C4. The Berlingo Multispace is distinctive and could never been mistaken for any other MPV - with the exception of it's Peugeot-badged sister car! From the front, worthy of particular mention are the distinctive front headlight units and the bold double-chevron front grille - it's particularly big and is a design cue shared with other modern members of the current Citroen range. Other design highlights from the front include Berlingo's wide, steeply raked windscreen. The glassy look is carried on through to the rear of the car with the larger rear windows. However, if you feel that the standard Belingo lacks attitude, then the more expensive XTR, with its raised suspension, black and silver body extensions and tinted rear windows could be what you're after.
Diesel or petrol - what's your poison?
Engine choices are limited to 1.6 16V petrol engines with 90bhp or 110bhp or 1.6 HDi diesels in 75bhp, 90bhp or 110bhp tune. All engines are mated with five-speed manual transmission. The 110bhp diesel version is likely to please the environmentally aware buyer, as it boasts 149g/km CO2 emissions and excellent 50.4mpg Combined consumption figures.
The inside story
Despite the C4 Picasso underpinnings, the Berlingo Multispace still feels van-like. The quality of the interior trim and plastics doesn't feel as luxurious as the C4 Picasso. The seats are comfortable though lack support on long journeys but the dashboard is easy to use. The Berlingo Multispace scores on sapce with its high roof. Citroen have thought of many ingenious overhead consoles or stowage shelves. Two of our favourites have to be the Modutop roof and the ability to mount roof bars on the inside, for greater security and improve aerodyanmics. The roof bars can't carry anything too heavy, but are fine for skis. There's a good sized boot (675litres) with the practicality of individual folding/removable rear seats.
On the road
Both the petrol engines are slow; but they are quieter and smoother than the diesels. The diesel versions have much more torque, but we think the lack of a sixth gear is serious omission in this class. The Berlingo is a safe handler, but is never entertaining to drive as there's too much body roll due to the height of the bodywork. We preferred the XTR to drive. It has different suspension settings seemed to suit the Berlingo Multispace better.
Tiscali verdict: Distinctive and full of clever stowage solutions, the Berlingo Multispace isn't great to drive but is great value for money and practical.
Fancy a closer look? Check out our New Citroen Berlingo gallery
