Citroen Vans

 Citroen Vans: Models, Features

Citroen vans have become a staple in the commercial vehicle market, offering a blend of style, functionality, and efficiency. These versatile vehicles have gained popularity among businesses and individuals alike, providing solutions for a wide range of transportation needs. From small city-friendly models to spacious cargo carriers, Citroen vans have established themselves as reliable workhorses in the UK and beyond.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Citroen vans, covering everything from model specifications to buying tips. It will delve into the key features that set Citroen vans apart, including their performance, fuel efficiency, and payload capacity. Additionally, readers will gain insights into customization options, safety ratings, and warranty information. Whether you're in the market for a new van or simply curious about what Citroen has to offer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Overview of Citroen Van Models

Citroen offers a comprehensive range of vans to cater to various business needs. The lineup includes three main models: the Berlingo, Dispatch, and Relay. Each model has its unique features and capabilities, designed to meet different requirements in the commercial vehicle market.

Berlingo

The Citroen Berlingo is the smallest panel van in the Citroen range. Currently in its third generation, introduced in 2018, the Berlingo sits below the medium-sized Dispatch and large-sized Relay. This compact van has gained popularity for its versatility and efficiency.

The Berlingo is available in two lengths: 4.4 meters and 4.75 meters. The longer version offers up to 4.4 cubic meters of cargo space, making it suitable for businesses that require a balance between maneuverability and load capacity. For those needing additional passenger capacity, an extended cab version with seating for five is also available.

In 2024, Citroen introduced the e-Berlingo, an all-electric variant of the popular van. This move aligns with the growing demand for electric commercial vehicles, especially in urban areas with low and ultra-low emission zones. The e-Berlingo has the same dimensions and cargo capacities as its diesel counterpart, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on practicality.

Both the Berlingo and e-Berlingo have received updates, including Citroen's Advanced Comfort seats and a redesigned dashboard featuring a digital instrument panel. These enhancements aim to improve driver comfort and overall user experience.

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Dispatch

The Citroen Dispatch occupies the middle ground in the Citroen van lineup, positioned between the compact Berlingo and the larger Relay. The current model, now in its third generation, was introduced in 2016 and has recently undergone a facelift.

The Dispatch is available in two body lengths: the 'M' at 4.98 meters and the 'L' at 5.33 meters. These options provide flexibility for businesses with varying cargo needs. The panel van versions of the Dispatch can carry up to 6.6 cubic meters of cargo, with an impressive payload capacity of 1,446kg. For the electric e-Dispatch variant, the payload capacity is slightly reduced to 1,000kg.

Like the Berlingo, the Dispatch also offers extended cab models with seating for five or six passengers, catering to businesses that need to transport both goods and personnel. The recent facelift has brought several improvements to the Dispatch, including a new front bumper for enhanced aerodynamics, new LED headlights, and a revised radiator grille.

Inside, the Dispatch has seen updates to its dashboard, with larger storage compartments and additional cubbies. Citroen states that these changes allow the Dispatch to "act as an extension of the office," enhancing its appeal to businesses that require mobile workspace solutions.

Relay Citroen Vans

The Citroen Relay is the largest van in the Citroen lineup, designed for businesses with substantial cargo requirements. For 2024, both the diesel-powered Relay and the all-electric e-Relay have undergone significant updates to improve efficiency and reduce running costs.

The Relay is available in various configurations to suit different needs. Panel vans come with two wheelbase options (3.45 meters and 4.04 meters) and three body lengths (L2, L3, and L3). The largest configuration can provide up to 17 cubic meters of load space, making it suitable for businesses that need to transport large volumes of goods.

For those requiring more specialized solutions, chassis cabs are also available, allowing for bespoke conversions to meet specific business needs. The diesel-powered Relay now features a new 2.2-liter BlueHDi engine, available in two power outputs: 138bhp and 178bhp. These can be paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering flexibility in terms of performance and driving preferences.

Key Features of Citroen Vans

Citroen vans have gained a reputation for their innovative features and user-friendly design. These vehicles offer a range of benefits that cater to the needs of both businesses and individual users. Let's explore some of the key features that set Citroen vans apart from their competitors.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Citroen has put a strong emphasis on driver and passenger comfort in their van lineup. The Citroën Advanced Comfort® program has been designed to offer unrivaled comfort and well-being for each passenger. This includes soft-touch contact points and low noise levels, creating a sense of calm within the vehicle.

The vans boast a high driving position, smooth-running gears, and suspension, along with thermal and acoustic insulation. These features work together to ensure optimum driving comfort regardless of road conditions. The front seats in models like the Berlingo Van and Dispatch have been ergonomically designed to offer ample space and a comfortable driving posture. They are also height and lumbar adjustable, allowing drivers to find their ideal position.

Storage solutions are abundant in Citroen vans, with numerous useful spaces for everyday equipment and valuable tools. Large door pockets, a big storage area under the passenger seat, an open-and-close glove box, and dashboard-mounted cup holders are just a few examples of the thoughtful storage options available.

Advanced Technology

Citroen vans come equipped with a range of advanced technologies designed to enhance the driving experience and improve productivity. The Berlingo and Dispatch models feature Mirror Screen technology, allowing drivers to access compatible smartphone apps through the vehicle's touchscreen.

Many models come with a Citroën Connect Box, offering emergency call options and breakdown assistance. The Citroën Connect Nav system, available in the Berlingo Van and Dispatch, provides 3D navigation with real-time traffic information, service station locations, car park details, and weather conditions.

The cabin of Citroen vans has been designed to double as a mobile office, featuring a space to work comfortably on files or computers, complete with a power supply via a USB socket. This feature is particularly useful for professionals who need to work on the go.

An innovative feature in the Dispatch model is the hands-free sliding side doors. With a simple foot movement under the corner of the rear bumper, the vehicle unlocks and the sliding door on that side opens automatically, providing convenience when hands are full.

Safety Systems Citroen Vans

Citroen has incorporated a wide array of safety features and driver assistance technologies in their vans. The Surround Rear Vision system, available on the Berlingo Van, uses two cameras to provide three different real-time views of the van's surroundings on a 5-inch color screen, significantly improving visibility during driving and parking maneuvers.

Grip Control, an advanced traction control system, optimizes front-wheel traction according to the type of ground. This feature is available in different modes depending on the model, allowing drivers to adjust traction for various terrains.

Other notable safety features include Hill Descent Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Cornering Light Function, and Lane Departure Warning System. The Active Safety Brake system works to minimize the risk of collisions by detecting obstacles and pedestrians, sending warnings to the driver, and automatically braking if necessary.

Additional safety innovations include the Driver Attention Alert, which analyzes changes in direction relative to road markings to detect driver fatigue, and the Speed Limit Recognition system, which uses a camera to detect and display current speed limits.

These features collectively demonstrate Citroen's commitment to creating vans that are not only practical and efficient but also comfortable, technologically advanced, and safe for both drivers and passengers.

Performance and Efficiency

Citroen vans have established themselves as reliable workhorses in the commercial vehicle market, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. This section delves into the engine options, fuel economy, and payload capacity of Citroen vans, highlighting their capabilities and advantages.

Engine Options

Citroen offers a range of engine options across its van lineup, catering to different performance needs. The Relay, Citroen's largest van, has undergone significant changes in its engine lineup over the years. In 2016, the engines were downsized from 2.2-liter to 2.0-liters to meet Euro 6 emissions regulations. This change resulted in increased power and efficiency across all versions.

However, in July 2019, Citroen reintroduced 2.2-liter engines in the Relay to comply with the newer Euro 6.2 emissions regulations. The current Relay range offers two engine variants: a 120hp engine with 310Nm of torque and a more powerful 140hp engine with 340Nm of torque. While these figures are lower than some competitors, the Relay's relatively light weight for a large van ensures adequate performance in most situations.

For those seeking eco-friendly options, Citroen has introduced fully electric variants. The e-Berlingo, for instance, offers a range of up to 261 miles (WLTP) and a 150 kW rapid charging capacity, making it suitable for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency has become a crucial factor for van operators, and Citroen has made significant strides in this area. The New Citroen Relay, fitted with an e-HDi 130 6-speed manual unit, achieves up to 42.6mpg on a combined journey (a combination of rural, urban, and motorway driving). It also boasts the lowest carbon emissions in its class, starting from 175g/km.

It's worth noting that Citroen now quotes fuel economy figures according to the latest WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure) standard. This new testing regime provides more realistic and achievable mileage figures compared to the previous NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) system. As a result, the latest models may appear to have lower fuel economy on paper, but this reflects a more accurate representation of real-world driving conditions.

For instance, the Relay's fuel economy figures have changed from claiming as much as 47.0mpg under the old system to a best of 34.9mpg under WLTP. This doesn't indicate a drop in efficiency but rather a more realistic assessment of the van's performance.

Payload Capacity Citroen Vans

Payload capacity is a critical factor for many businesses when choosing a van, and Citroen offers competitive options across its range. The payload capacity varies depending on the model and configuration.

The Citroen Berlingo van, for example, has a payload range from 642kg to 1010kg, depending on the specific model. The gross vehicle weights for the Berlingo van range from 2.1 to 2.3 tons. Understanding the concept of gross vehicle weight (GVW) is essential when considering payload capacity. GVW represents the maximum weight a vehicle can carry, including the weight of the van itself, passengers, cargo, and additional equipment.

For businesses with more substantial cargo requirements, the Relay offers impressive capabilities. It can carry loads of up to 1,500kg and has a load volume of up to 17m3, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications.

Citroen also considers weight distribution in their van designs. The Berlingo, for instance, features carefully engineered axle weights to ensure optimal balance and stability. This attention to weight distribution aids in preserving the van's handling characteristics and prevents excessive strain on any particular axle.

When considering payload capacity, it's crucial to be aware of the plated weights of the van. These represent the maximum limits specified by the manufacturer and should never be exceeded to ensure safe and legal operation.

Customization and Versatility

Citroen vans offer a wide range of customization options and versatility to meet the diverse needs of businesses and individuals. The Berlingo, Dispatch, and Relay models provide various configurations and features that allow users to tailor their vehicles to specific requirements.

Body Styles

Citroen vans come in different body styles to suit various applications. The Berlingo Van, for instance, is available in two body lengths, giving customers the flexibility to choose based on their cargo needs. The compact utility vehicle offers loading capacities of up to 4.4m³, making it suitable for a variety of business activities.

The Dispatch, Citroen's mid-size van, also offers multiple body lengths. This versatile utility vehicle provides an impressive 6.3m³ loading volume, catering to businesses that require more substantial cargo space. For those with even greater capacity requirements, the Relay, Citroen's largest van, boasts a load volume of up to 17m³ and can carry loads of up to 1,500kg.

Interior Configurations

Citroen has designed its vans with adaptability in mind, offering various interior configurations to maximize functionality. The Berlingo Van, for example, features the innovative Moduwork system, which allows users to transport long objects up to 4 meters in length. This feature significantly enhances the van's versatility, enabling it to accommodate a wide range of cargo types.

The vans also offer smart storage solutions throughout the cabin. These include large door pockets, spacious storage areas under passenger seats, and dashboard-mounted cup holders. Such thoughtful design elements help transform the cabin into a mobile office, ideal for professionals who need to work on the go.

Optional Equipment Citroen Vans

Citroen provides an extensive range of optional equipment to enhance the functionality and comfort of their vans. For the Berlingo Van, customers can opt for roof bars designed to transport heavy and bulky loads. Available in long or short versions, these bars can carry up to 115kg of additional payload, blending design with safety features.

To assist with parking in tight spaces, Citroen offers a parking sensor system. This feature uses audible signals to indicate any obstacles, making maneuvering in confined areas much easier. For added protection against the elements, specially designed mudflaps are available, perfectly matching the style of the vehicle while providing practical benefits.

Security is also a key consideration in Citroen's customization options. An anti-intrusion alarm system, activated by remote control via the key, is available for enhanced protection. For even greater security, customers can opt for a high-frequency module that extends protection to the cargo space.

Citroen's commitment to customization extends beyond these standard options. The company offers a service that allows customers to tailor van racking to their individual needs. Using a user-friendly design program, customers can explore and visualize their customized van racking, including a 3D model for a realistic preview of the final result.

This flexible system enables users to add new components, remove existing ones, or design entirely unique racking setups. Such extensive customization options ensure that Citroen vans can be adapted to meet the specific requirements of various trades and industries, enhancing their versatility and utility across a wide range of applications.

Buying Tips for Citroen Vans

When considering the purchase of a Citroen van, buyers face several important decisions. These choices can have a significant impact on both the immediate cost and long-term value of the vehicle. This section explores key factors to consider when buying a Citroen van, including the choice between new and used models, financing options, and whether to buy from a dealer or private seller.

New vs Used

The decision between a new or used Citroen van has its own set of advantages and considerations. New vans offer the latest features, full manufacturer warranties, and the ability to customize to specific needs. They also comply with the most recent safety regulations and tend to retain their value better. However, they come with a higher upfront cost.

Used Citroen vans, on the other hand, present a more budget-friendly option. The lower initial cost allows buyers to potentially afford a higher-spec model or more features than they could with a new van. Used vans also depreciate at a slower rate, which can be beneficial for long-term value. However, they may lack the latest technology and safety enhancements, and their history and maintenance record might be unclear.

Financing Options

Citroen offers various financing options to make van ownership more accessible. These include Van Hire Purchase, Van Finance Leasing, and Van Contract Hire.

Van Hire Purchase allows buyers to become the registered keeper of the van while making monthly payments. This option is particularly suitable for VAT-registered companies looking to eventually own the van outright. The initial deposit typically matches the amount of VAT and Road Fund License, with flexible repayment schedules spanning 36 to 60 months.

Van Finance Leasing is an attractive option for both VAT-registered and non-VAT registered companies. It requires an initial deposit equivalent to 1 to 3 months' rental plus VAT, with leasing terms extending from 24 to 60 months. This option allows companies to manage their vehicle administration and have the asset appear on their balance sheet.

Van Contract Hire offers a streamlined approach, blending the ease of leasing with additional benefits. It requires an initial deposit equivalent to 1 to 3 months' rental plus VAT. This option often includes maintenance and road tax, reducing the administrative burden on the buyer.

Dealer vs Private Sale

When purchasing a used Citroen van, buyers can choose between dealerships and private sellers. Each option has its own advantages and potential drawbacks.

Buying from a dealership often provides more security and peace of mind. Reputable dealerships typically carry out tests on their used vehicles before putting them on sale, including history checks and basic roadworthiness inspections. Dealerships also offer certain consumer protections. Under the Consumer Rights Act, buyers have a 'short-term right to reject,' allowing them to return the van within 30 days of purchase if a fault is discovered that was present at the time of sale.

Additionally, vehicles bought from dealerships often come with warranties, covering specifically defined repairs for a certain period, usually a year or two. Dealerships also offer financing options, allowing buyers to spread the cost over manageable monthly payments rather than requiring a large upfront sum.

Private sales, while often offering lower prices, come with fewer guarantees. The buyer's rights are limited to ensuring the van matches its advertised description and that the seller has the legal right to sell the vehicle. If a fault appears after purchase, returning the van for a refund is generally not an option. Private sales also lack the additional protections and warranties offered by dealerships.

In conclusion, when buying a Citroen van, carefully consider these factors to make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.

Conclusion

Citroen vans have proven to be versatile and reliable workhorses in the commercial vehicle market. Their range of models, from the compact Berlingo to the spacious Relay, caters to various business needs with impressive features, customization options, and performance capabilities. The emphasis on comfort, advanced technology, and safety systems shows Citroen's commitment to create vans that are not just practical, but also enjoyable to drive.

For those in the market for a Citroen van, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons of new versus used models, explore financing options, and decide between dealership and private sales. By considering these factors and understanding the unique features of Citroen vans, buyers can make an informed decision that aligns with their specific requirements and budget. In the end, Citroen vans offer a compelling blend of functionality, efficiency, and innovation, making them a strong choice for businesses and individuals alike.

FAQs

What types of vans does Citroen offer?

Citroen's van lineup includes the Berlingo, a small van, the Dispatch, a medium-sized van, and the Relay, a large van. The Berlingo is positioned below the Dispatch and Relay in terms of size.

How reliable are Citroen vans?

Citroen vans, such as the Berlingo, Dispatch, and Relay, have been known for their reliability since 1996. The fact that many older models are still in use today demonstrates their durability, popularity, and overall build quality.

What sets the Berlingo Enterprise apart from the standard Berlingo model?

The Berlingo Enterprise is tailored for professionals who often work on building sites and includes unique features like the Grip Control system with Hill Descent Assist, distinguishing it from other models in the range.

What is the expected lifespan of a Citroen Berlingo van?

A Citroen Berlingo van typically has a lifespan of up to 209,000 miles, with fuel type being a significant factor affecting its longevity.