This new generation Berlingo builds upon the outstanding success of the current model, Citroen has sold over 800,000 Berlingo vans worldwide making it the most successful commercial vehicle in Citroen’s history. The new Berlingo is available in two trim options, with a choice of three engines – a new 90bhp 1.6i petrol engine and two 1.6HDi diesels in 75bhp and 90bhp format, all of which are mated to five-speed gear boxes. An optional Extenso modular cabin facility provides the ability to transport load length of 3 metres or more dependent on model. The Berlingo goes one step further in making van drivers’ working life that much easier, with the introduction of the Trafficmaster Smartnav and Trackstar navigation and tracking devices as standard on all specs but the base 1.6-litre petrol engine.Maximum Berlingo payloads rise to 850kg and the larger of the two new Berlingo models has a load compartment volume of 3.7m3, or 4.1m3 with Extenso option. Two versions (L1 and L2) of the new Berlingo will be available in the UK, with a 2728mm wheelbase. Citroën offer the new Berlingo with a wide range of load compartment door options including single or twin sliding side load doors. As standard, new Berlingo has unglazed twin hinged rear doors with glazed rear doors as an option. The twin rear doors are split 60/40 and open out to 177 degrees, to enable the new Berlingo to back right up to a loading bay. A hinged roof flap is also an option.
The Extenso cabin option provides the ability to seat a driver and two passengers, thanks to a middle seat for occasional use. With the Extenso® cabin option the outer passenger seat can be folded away to enable loads of 3.0m or more. In two seater format the passenger seat can be folded down to give a flat writing surface, complete with two cup holders. In addition the Extenso centre seat houses a 7.6-litre secure storage bin to conceal valuables from passers-by. A combination of a passenger side glove box, a glove box behind the steering wheel, over-windscreen storage, large door pockets, a central console and additional driver’s seat storage provide a total in-cab storage space of up to 61 litres.
Low cabin noise levels are achieved with effective acoustic encapsulation of the engine and the under-floor body pan is specially coated to reduce road noise and protect the vehicle body structure from stone chipping. In addition, the new Berlingo interior also boasts a wide range of noise-absorbent acoustic materials applied to dash, roof and other interior surfaces. Standard equipment on all Berlingos’ includes a trip computer, central locking, electric front windows and internally adjustable door mirrors. The already high level of standard trim is further augmented in new Berlingo LX models with remote central locking, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors and an external temperature sensor. Standard audio equipment includes a stereo radio/CD player on all models. The Berlingo model will be sold alongside the similar Peugeot Partner Light van.
Nemo earns its designation as the smallest, biggest van as it has internal load compartment dimensions and a payload capacity equal to or better than many larger high-cube vans. The new Nemo is just 3.86m long and has a tight turning circle of just 9.95m a 2.5cu m load compartment and a 610kg payload. Folding and sliding passenger seats and nearside sliding side door boost practicality and interior space. The Nemo comes in the four variations that together draw on Citroen’s two light commercial-primed engines – 75bhp 1.4-litre petrol injection and the 70bhp 1.4-litre HDI diesel - while two trim levels are available – X and XL. On top of this, the versatile 1.4-litre oil-burning unit can be run on 30% biodiesel without the need for any engine modifications. On the subject of power plants, both petrol and diesel variants can clock up 20,000 miles, or two years, between manufacturer services. To heighten the Nemo’s driving experience, SensoDrive, Citroën’s clutchless automated manual transmission is also available with the 1.4HDi engine.
CAP applauds new Nemo and Berlingo
As a fillip for those still in the light commercial van decision-making process, CAP believe that both the Nemo and Berlingo will be fast-established as residual frontrunners in their respective classes. CAP cites both vans optimum levels of crew comfort, safety, versatility, functionality and projected low cost operating as key performance indicators. With a suggested residual value exceeding 32% after a typical three years/60,000 mile lifespan, the Nemo outstrips its closest envisaged rivals, a feat matched by its Berlingo stable mate which after the same period should retain some 33% of its original outlay.
