The 1.6HDi engine has been used in Citroens and Peugeots for over 10 years now, testament to it's popularity and reliability. It is smooth and responsive, if a little noisey and capable of providing adequate acceleration and overtaking ability. The o-62 mph time is a sluggish 15 seconds and the top speed is 93 mph. The 5 speed manual is precise and solid which build on a silky smooth ride comfort to give an overall relaxing driving experience.
Practicality
This is where the cars excels. Its cavernous boot space will swallow all your luggage, shopping or pets with ease. The optional Dog Gaurd which is fitted in my car is custom made for the Berlingo and is solid and secure. It is made of a fine metal mesh which only marginally reduces rear visibility. The Desire model comes fitted with Citroens ModuTop - a 5 panal glass roof with loads of storage space overhead and air vents for the rear passengers. There's underfloor storage in the rear and an overhead shelf in the boot. in my opinion the door pockets and the glove box are slightly on the small side though, but the other storage makes up for it. The car will seat 5 adults with ease and there are picnic tables on the backs of the front seats. Large wing mirrors and a flat, vertical rear means parking is easier than you'd expect.
Styling
Not a strong point on the Berlingo, its van origins are clear, but the interior is comfortable and car-like, with plenty light and space.
Value For Money
Citroen are renowned for their cashback offers which makes the Berlingo good value for money if buying new. However, from my point of view, the car makes more sense second hand. Hefty depreciation will leave some feeling out of pocket, but those looking for a long term car or buying used will reep greatest reward. Fuel economy around the 52 mpg mark is impressive for the size of the Berlingo and I found this to be very accurate. The large 13 gallon fuel tank gives a range of over 700 miles!
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Jun 17th, 2009
very helpful by (100%):
