Citroen Berlingo Review 2024

Citroen Berlingo At A Glance

5/5

+Comfortable and easy to drive, high payload capacity, economical, lots of high-tech options.

-Many innovative features are optional, automatic transmission only available in flagship engine variants.

The Citroen Berlingo first arrived in 1996 and, since then, it has proven a popular choice– with over 1.5 million first- and second-generation vans being built. The new third-generation version builds on its predecessors’ successes and capabilities by adding a range of new features, more powerful engines and modern options.

More prominently, it’s also capable of handling heavier payloads – up to 1050kg in some configurations. It still has the same 1.2 metre load width between the wheel arches, too, so Euro pallets will slide right in.

The Berlingo, which is the result of a joint PSA project, features a revised platform that’s shared with the Peugeot Partner and Vauxhall Combo. The revamped underpinnings, improved payload aside, grant a shorter front overhang and a smaller turning circle. Consequently, the Berlingo is more nimble and agile than before.

The engine line-up starts with a 75PS 1.6-litre BlueHDi diesel but a more powerful 100PS variant dubbed the 100 is also available. A five-speed manual transmission is standard; there’s also a 1.5-litre BlueHDi 130 diesel that puts out 130PS, which is offered with a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic.

A 110PS 1.2-litre PureTech petrol is also available, in conjunction with a six-speed manual transmission, and a more powerful 130PS automatic. Running costs should be low, in any case; as an example, all the diesel versions are claimed to average in excess of 60mpg – making them ideal for those covering higher mileages. The most frugal is the mid-range BlueHDi 100, which is advertised with 67.3mpg.

Two sizes of Berlingo are offered – M and XL – which are 4.4 and 4.7 metres long respectively. There are several trim levels available, too; there’s the entry-level X, the rugged Worker variant, the well-equipped Enterprise and the plusher Driver model. A host of new features are also on offer, including an overload indicator, a surround-view camera system and adaptive cruise control.

In any case, the third-gen Berlingo represents a notable improvement over its predecessor. It’s not expensive to run, it can deal with heavier loads and it’s still a comfortable, easy van to drive. Plus, for those willing to fork over the cash, it’s available with a range of advanced and useful equipment. 

Ask Honest John

Can my son reject a van he bought last August?

"My son bought a 19 plate Citroen van from a Citroen dealership in August 2023 with a year warranty. Upon buying it was kept for two weeks whilst they fixed a faulty drivers seat. Since then the driveshaft has broken, there was an oil leak and there was a problem with the NHS door, The stop start has never worked. Citroen fixed all but the stop start wanting £250 to fix it. Now the clutch is starting to slip. Citroen are not taking any blame for this and have said they will strip it down to check for faults but if there aren’t any will charge £600 to put it back! The centre console electronics now intermittently work. What are his rights given all the faults with the vehicle. Can he reject it?"
It is possible to reject a vehicle if certain conditions are met, such as the vehicle is not fit for purpose, of sufficient quality or not as described. The issue in this situation is the amount of time that has passed since the vehicle was purchased, as your consumer rights are somewhat diminished after six months, although the fact that it is still under warranty goes in your favour. You can read more about the process of rejecting a vehicle here: https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights/
Answered by David Ross

What's a good small car that will also suit an outdoor enthuisast?

"I spent 17 years in London so I never bought a car or had a car in the UK. I am a mid-40s female and ot entirely sure how I will use a car as I've mostly been "car free" and owned a car when I lived in my home country. I live in Brighton and I dream of buying a microcamper van. I'm not sure it's a wise choice as I'm not entirely clear how I will use the car just yet but I am wondering if there are any cars that are good for city living but are suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who might want to throw a tent and lots of stuff from home into a boot. "
Many people in your situation buy something like a Citroen Berlingo. A used Berlingo represents good value for money while it should also be cheap to run. There are a number of ways you can convert it into a comfortable microcamper - from a basic 'boot jump' to a more luxurious conversion. You might be able to save time and effort by finding a pre-converted example. And as they're always popular, you're unlikely to lose a lot of money if you decide it isn't for you. A Volkswagen Caddy could be a good alternative - although the VW badge does attract a price premium in the camper market. We really rated the Caddy California when we tried it: https://vans.honestjohn.co.uk/van-reviews/volkswagen/caddy-california-2021/ Alternatively, you could look at a more conventional car like the Dacia Jogger. The Jogger is a very practical (and affordable) seven-seat car. You can even order it with a Sleep Pack which adds a storage box that doubles up as a base for a mattress. It's a really clever idea that could be ideal for your needs.
Answered by Andrew Brady

Replacement for Citroen Berlingo?

"I love my 2005 Citroen Berlingo, it has done everything I need. Now it is showing signs of age and I wonder if there is an electric alternative. Boot size is crucial, just for going to the tip and sleeping. Every car seems to be getting wider and wider and we live in Devon with narrow lanes, so something narrower would be good, and no pinging when you meet a blade of grass. "
The latest Citroen Berlingo is now electric-only, although it'll be quite a lot bigger than your 2005 model so might not be ideal for Devon country lanes. As an alternative, we'd recommend an MG 5 EV - it's one of the few electric estate cars on the market and represents very good value for money. You could also look at a hybrid alternative like the very versatile Honda Jazz.
Answered by Andrew Brady

What is the Citroen Berlingo's Real MPG?

"How does the Citroen Berlingp perform in your Real MPG ratings and where can I find this information?"
All Real MPG data we have on this van can be found here: https://vans.honestjohn.co.uk/realmpg/citroen/berlingo-2008 For all van Real MPG scores, see: https://vans.honestjohn.co.uk/realmpg/citroen/
Answered by Dan Powell
More Questions

What does a Citroen Berlingo cost?