Citroen Berlingo Multispace 1.6i 16v

The first part of this review is based around use for my disabled wife because it is an ideal car for such purposes but keep reading because it's got good points all round.

My wife took possession of a car of this type through the motobility scheme so the purchase and subsequent service from Citreon may differ according to your circumstances. Our experience however concerning the selection, test drive and purchase was of quiet professionalism ...
...vehicle itself, it was selected for the space to allow storage of a wheelchair and or an electric scooter. We had a three wheel scooter which came apart and could easily be lifted into the back as when the tailgate is lifted there is nothing blocking unlike the boot of a saloon car. A draw back to this is that a person in a wheelchair would find the tailgate ackward to use themselves.

The easy rear access also enabled us to transport ... more

The first part of this review is based around use for my disabled wife because it is an ideal car for such purposes but keep reading because it's got good points all round.

My wife took possession of a car of this type through the motobility scheme so the purchase and subsequent service from Citreon may differ according to your circumstances. Our experience however concerning the selection, test drive and purchase was of quiet professionalism from the supplier (Worcester).

As to the vehicle itself, it was selected for the space to allow storage of a wheelchair and or an electric scooter. We had a three wheel scooter which came apart and could easily be lifted into the back as when the tailgate is lifted there is nothing blocking unlike the boot of a saloon car. A draw back to this is that a person in a wheelchair would find the tailgate ackward to use themselves.

The easy rear access also enabled us to transport a four wheel electric scooter using a ramp we had purchased seperately which simply rested on the back of the car. The rear seats being split meant that we could have a rear seat passenger as well as the scooter and other luggage.

The front doors open out in the usual way but they open well to give easy access and the width of opening plus lack of step means anyone could sit in easily. The rear doors slide backwards along the body of the car but they are not very wide and there is a slight step so not the best for anyone who is not reasonably agile.

Once inside the car there is plenty of space for all passengers especially headroom, I am over six foot and I had plenty of space. The specification of this model does not provide too many extras, no sunroof, although with roof space and all round excellent visability it is not necessary. A good quality radio cassette player is standard as are electric front windows. The rear windows are rear opening which allows in air without the usual hairdryer effect of normal rear windows when open.

There are a variety of storage areas around the car, I won't spoil your fun in discovering where they all are but they are all useful!
The driving position is high and can be made comfortable with a number of adjustments including the steering wheel.

Actual driving is a pleasure wether on local roads or motorways. The engine feels suprisingly responsive considering the size of the car. It will never beat a sports car but then it isn't meant to. Cruising at the speed limit on motorways is effortless for car and driver. The gear change is smooth, brakes are responsive (A14 emergency stop proved that!!) N.B. NOT my fault!!

Fuel economy is reasonable, again bearing in mind the size of the car. I was getting 30mpg around town and 40mpg+ on a run. Since first writing this review I have been reliably informed that a diesel version of this vehicle gives a better MPG perhaps as expected; also stated was that the diesel has no problems going up hills, well I have to say our petrol version had no problems either even when fully loaded and I mean FULL.

I parked out on the road every night and every morning it would start first time even when covered in a thick layer of snow last winter.

I haven't yet touched on the true versatility of use. Think of what you would use a van for, it's this vehicle (rubbish to the tip, wardrobe to brother's, clothes to the charity shop etc) It is what it's name suggests a multi space vehicle. If you have children then you will appreciate the flexibility and space for your luggage and all their toys.

I would still be happily driving our car but I had to return it for personal reasons. If you decide to purchase this type of vehicle I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. 

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