Citroen Berlingo Multispace (2008 – 2018) Review

Citroen Berlingo Multispace (2008 – 2018) At A Glance

3/5

+Practical and versatile family transport that's cheap to buy and run, lots of carrying capacity with individual folding rear seats.

-Low thrills interior, rear-windows don't open fully, ride can be poor on twisty roads.

When it comes to cheap and practical family transport, the Citroen Berlingo Multispace is a big and boxy bargain. Easy to drive, comfortable over long trips and capable of providing an official 68.9mpg, the Berlingo Multispace should cope with everything life - and your kids - will throw at it.

The Berlingo Multispace might never be the most fashionable MPV in town, but its 3000 litres of storage gives it unrivalled levels of everyday usability. The large and comfortable interior will easily accommodate five adults, while high trim models can be upgraded to seven-seaters. However, as with many van-based MPVs, the extra (and cramped) seats are only suitable for small children.

The engine line-up consists of one petrol and two diesels, with the latter providing the best performance and economy. The 1.6-litre petrol has a modest 95PS and will return an official 44.1mpg and 148g/km of CO2, but lacks pace when called upon.

The 1.6 diesel with 100PS is the engine to go for, with its 254Nm of torque providing a much welcomed boost in low-gear acceleration. It will also return an official 68.9mpg and 109g/km of CO2, when specified with engine start/stop, which puts it on part with some city cars. The range-topper is the 120PS diesel and this will return 60mpg+, which makes it a temping choice given the added performance. 

Behind the wheel the Berlingo Multispace feels fairly well rooted to the road, with responsive steering that makes it surprisingly compliant. However, while the Berlingo boasts plenty of grip and feel in the corners, the ride does suffer over bumps and potholes. The body is also prone to pitching heavily in the corners. Things improve on the motorway though and the big Citroen feels nimble in town, with a 10.5 meter turning circle that makes it easy to park.

The Berlingo Multispace is starting to feel its age - it was launched back in 2008 - but it is still good value, with its low running costs and cavernous interior making it great, affordable transport. Some might be put off by its van-like looks, but few MPVs can rival Citroen's big box on wheels for budget practicality. 

Ask Honest John

Removing rear seats from my Citroen Berlingo Multispace - will this make a difference to MoT?

"My 2005 Citroen Berlingo Multispace's sliding side doors won't open from the outside (or with central locking) but unlocks OK from the inside when necessary. I only use the car as a 'van' i.e. rear seats always folded down, no passengers. If I removed the rear seats would it pass the MoT? "
The MoT rules are very clear: all driver and passenger doors must open from the outside using the relevant control. Removing the rear seats will not prevent the vehicle from failing the MoT - the Berlingo Multispace is classified as a car and not a commercial vehicle.
Answered by Dan Powell

What cheap petrol car can carry a moped in the back?

"I need a cheap to run petrol vehicle on a budget of £3000 which is suitable for the London ULEZ and also needs to carry a moped in the back. Rear seats are unimportant as they can be removed."
I'd recommend a van-based MPV. Something like the Fiat Qubo petrol should fit the bill, as the rear seats can be removed when not needed. Or a petrol version of the Citroen Berlingo Multispace.
Answered by Dan Powell

Can you recommend a car with a low boot lip for wheelchair loading?

"I would like your advice on behalf of my elderly parents please. They are looking for a new small SUV or hatchback with a low boot lip to load my sister's wheelchair without having to lift it up too high. They currently have a Vauxhall Meriva and have told me they are considering the Ford C-Max, but if you know of any better alternatives I'd appreciate your input."
The Ford Tourneo Connect might work out better for them. Or a Citroen Berlingo Multispace or Peugeot Partner Tepee. Lower rear load deck.
Answered by Honest John

Need a low cost running car, with a large boot for my cycling business - what do you advise?

"I've started my own up-cycling business and I don't want to use a third party. My largest piece is 54-inches long and 45-inches high and pretty heavy, so needs to be able carry considerable weight. Considered a pick up truck but heard they are costly to run and it would also have to be a double cab. Hope you can help advise me."
You're only talking 4' 6" here, but 3' 9" high. I think your best bet is a Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, Renault Kangoo, Fiat Doblo, Mercedes-Benz Citan, Vauxhall Combo, Ford Connect van or combi (with windows). All have low load floors. Combis such as the Berlingo Multispace tend to be cheaper to insure and the rear seats can be folded or totally removed.
Answered by Honest John
More Questions

What does a Citroen Berlingo Multispace (2008 – 2018) cost?