CV Show 2014: Citroen revises Relay

Citroen took the wraps off its revised Relay at the 2014 Commercial Vehicle Show. The updated version of the popular panel van gets more durable build quality, improved engines and a new range of optional extras. The new model will go on sale in August.

While the basic profile of the van is unchanged, the Relay does get a new front end with high-mounted headlights that are more angular than before and a new multi-piece front bumper design with a flowing chrome grille.

There are significant changes elsewhere with high-stress items, such as the rear doors, reinforced and higher strength door hinges are fitted. The sliding side doors get reinforced rails, re-designed runners and improved door locks – all designed to improve durability and security standards.

The body structure also now uses multiple-point reinforcement to raise body rigidity and lower noise levels. Under the skin are redesigned shock absorbers, again to reduce road noise. The cab gets a new trim of dark grey and black and red twill seat cloth plus a redesigned dashboard while electric windows, electric and heated door mirrors, DAB radio and Bluetooth are all standard fit.

The 2.2-litre diesel engine has been improved with increased efficiency. The HDi unit comes in versions of 110PS, 130PS and 150PS, all with a six-speed, all-synchromesh manual gearbox. The 130PS engine is also available as an e-HDi with engine start/stop which sees official economy of 42.8mpg (for the Relay 30). All Relay panel vans of up to 3.5 tonnes have sub-200g/km CO2 emissions which reduces to 175g/km for the Relay 30 e-HDi.

New options include a reversing camera which is positioned next to the third brake light and displays the image on a five-inch colour screen in the dashboard. Other new option packs include the ‘Look Pack’ with LED daytime running lights, front fog lights and full wheel trims along with the ‘Comfort Pack’ which includes rain sensitive wipers, automatic air conditioning, suspended driver’s seat and a leather steering wheel

The smallest Relay L1H1 panel van can be specified in 3.0 and 3.3 tonne gross weights and has a load space volume of 8.0 m3. The medium wheelbase Relay L2 model can be specified in both standard and high roof formats, giving respective load volumes of 10m3 and 11.5m3.

The largest Relay panel vans are the 3.5 and 4.005 tonne gvw L4H2 and L4H3 models, which have a load deck length of 4070mm. These are produced in ‘Heavy Specification’ with 16-inch wheels and tyres plus uprated heavy duty rear suspension.