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THE TEST OF TIME
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With so many new commercial vehicles on the market, it's easy to overlook the more established players. So does the latest version of Citroen's Berlingo still have what it takes?
Being the definitive guide to commercial vehicle roadtests, we at CM take pride in getting our hands on the newest and most diverse vehicles in the business. From pocket-sized urban runabouts to 600hp-plus tractors,if it's out there,we'll track it down— then give it a thorough seeing-to.
But as Bob Marley once said, in this great future you can't forget your past.That's why we're turning to an old favourite to see if time has been kind—especially considering the arrival of newer. and heavier,competition in recent years Originally introduced in 19%, the (7itroen Berlingo has steadily evolved as time has passed, receiving a thorough makeover in 2002 which included improvements in crash protection and changes to suspension dynamics.And now it has taken delivery of Euro-4 power, bringing it bang up to date in the engine stakes. In the current market, the Berlingo weighs in as something of a lightweight at 1,805kg —VW's Caddy and Ford's Connect both come in at 2,200kg-plus.As a result, the Caddy and Connect cross over into a heavier category which officially reduces their speed limits in certain areas such as A-roads and dual carriageways.
Our particular steed is an Enterprise 600TD 2.0IiDi.This comes in at f10,495, which gives it a very slight edge over the competition. Prices in the range start at £8,995 for the petrol 1.4i and there's also a 1.9-litre diesel.
For our test model, power is rated at 90hp, torque is 205N and the 600 in the title represents the gross payload (599kg). But if you have heavier requirements you can specify an 800 version (though not in Enterprise get-up) with 779kg of payload.
Standard equipment on all models includes remote central locking and immobiliser. The LX also receives heated mirrors (electronically adjustable on the passenger's side) and electric front winclows.Topping the tree is the Enterprise with CD/radio and ABS.
Options include metallic paint (f235), air conditioning (£480) and a half-height steel bulkhead (70).
Productivity
We were keen to discover the effect, if any, of the new Euro-4 technology on the Berlingo's fuel consumption. On a laden run around the Kent test route, the Enterprise delivered 42.8mpg; this was slightly down on the class average, but with Fiat's Doble and VW's Caddy clocking 43.9 and 44.0mpg respectively there wasn't much in it. Leading the pack by some distance is the Vauxhall Combo 1.7, complete with multipoint technology, which recorded 52.2mpg. Unladen saw a slight improvement for the Enterprise at 45.7mpg, though the others gained a touch more distance; again the Combo led the way.
With its high-cube design, the Berlingo offers sound load credentials-3m3of load space and near-flat side walls certainly help. Accessibility is helped by the (optional) twin sliding side doors. which are a boon for multidrop work,The standard rear doors open out to an initial 90°, though this can be extended to 180' simply by unhooking the restraints on the hinges.
What boosts the Berlingo's load credentials is the multifunctional passenger seat. Fitted as standard on the LX, 800 and Enterprise, its 11110 first trick is to fold flat, giving the operator somewhere to rest on when filling in paperwork it also tilts upright, extending load length from 1.7 to 2.1m. But if that wasn't enough to have you applauding in the aisles, there's 100 litres of storage space at the base of the seat — perfect for keeping valuables out of sight. A rear-opening roof hatch is also an option, for those longer-thananticipated loads. We approve of innovation like this,
On the road
There's much to like about the Berl ingo when it comes to driving; it surprised us with its overall competence (it has been a while).The strongest point is the overall level of userfriendliness — this is not a van you have to make yourself familiar with when using it for the first time. Its laid-back nature allows unruffled progress and is ideal for urban work.The steering is sharp and direct, enabling swift manoeuvring in and out of traffic, and the shift, while not the most exact,suits the Berlingo's character.
But its main attribute is the engine. We've previously praised this unit in Euro-3 form and there's no reason to change our opinion now. Torque is the key, and from low-down there's plenty around to avoid having to rev your way out of trouble.
Simply press the accelerator and it picks up without pausing for thought — unlike some newer and more highly strung units we can think of, which require precise clutch engagement to avoid stalling.
This power delivery further aids its urban credentials — but the Berlingo also proves a smooth cruiser at higher speeds and allows swift progress on the open road.
Cornering reveals a competent chassis that stays flat and composed, even when fully loaded.And it proves to be smartly chuck able when swift manoeuvres are required, understeering only when really pushed. It's also well suspended, soaking up irregularities and potholes in its stride.
On the quick roads the Berlingo cruises well enough, but that lightweight, relaxed nature proves to be a handicap compared with heavier vehicles such as the VW Caddy (a CM current long-term tester).There's less stability at high speed and it is noticeably (but
not dangerously) affected by crosswinds. Furthermore. the quick steering requires small corrections to stay on track during motorway work, which becomes a chore over distances.
Cab comfort
There are certain fundamentals that can make UT break an interior. It isn't rocket science by any stretch, but putting controls in places you don't expect them. for instance, is a crime that several are guilty of.
Flamboyant it may not be, but what the Berlingo's set-up offers is simplicity in design and this is no bad tbing,The mix of grey (seating and central control panel) contrasts effectively with the dominating colour, black. And the instrument layout,while not the most contemporary, is easy to familiarise yourself with. Everything is well placed and clearly marked. Overall space is down on the newer breed but not by much.
The seating position has you slightly raised, helping forward visibility, while a decent driving position is attainable despite the steering wheel only being adjustable for rake. Being sensibly designed. the Berlingo gives you usable storage that includes decent door bins, several centrally located trays and an overhead shelf. And a mention also goes to the retro heating vents-we like.
You also feel well insulated from outside thanks to decent engine soundproofing, giving the unit a distant, and pleasantly cultured, hum. Road roar in the cabin is equally faint but there's only so much that can be achieved until the load area.separated by a minimal ladder bulkhead,starts to intrude with its own road noise at speed.
And the Berlingo displays an overall level of build quality that is, well, stronger than we remembered, Admittedly it hasn't attained German levels of sturdiness but it isn't far off the mark. •