Why is the classification of vans so confusing?
I am looking to buy a facelifted 2025 Citroen Berlingo either petrol or diesel, but the vehicle classifications are maddeningly confusing. Seemingly identical vehicles are either classed as M1 (i.e a car) and others are N1 (i.e a van), albeit one with windows. I don’t understand it. On a separate note is it possible to get the DVLA to change a vehicle classification?
Asked on 15 August 2025 by Claire
Answered by
Craig Cheetham
The general rule here is that the Citroen Berlingo Multispace is M1 (a car) and that the Berlingo crew van (N1) is a van – albeit a five-seater with windows. It all depends on if the vehicle was designed t be used as a car or as a commercial vehicle – the Multispace is much plusher and doesn't have as many lashing points in the load area, whereas the Berlingo crew van has an enclosed rear. You can apply to DVLA to change the classification of a vehicle, but you'll need to prove it has been altered to meet the new classification. The process is explained here: www.gov.uk/change-vehicle-details-registration-cer...a
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