For a fantastic 22m3 of cargo space in an easy-to-load, reliable van, consider the Citroën Low-Floor Luton, the manufacturer’s low loader. It’s a great option for anyone needing space, practicality, and a straightforward way to get cargo into and out of a vehicle without the added weight of a tail lift.
Engine and Transmission
A light utility vehicle, the Citroën Low-Floor Luton is a factory, “Ready to Run” conversion that’s usually available from stock. It’s equipped with a Euro 6 BlueHDi 2.2-litre 140hp diesel engine and a six-speed manual gearbox. You can drive this front-wheel drive (FWD), low-loader Luton on a standard licence; as it’s rated at 3.5tonnes (3500kg), there’s no need for an HGV licence.
Its AdBlue tank means that you can drive in Ultra Low Emissions Zones (ULEZ) without an additional charge (although you will still be subject to the London Congestion Charge): AdBlue is a new technology fitted to Euro 6 engines to help reduce the particulate emissions from diesel combustion.
One tank’s worth should last for around 9000 miles; when (or before!) it runs out, you can buy a refill bottle and refill the tank yourself. The engine won’t run with an empty AdBlue tank, so do think ahead with this one.
Dimensions and Payload
The Low-Floor Luton is available in one size only. There’s seating for the driver and two passengers, and behind the cab is a sturdy bulkhead, protected from damage while loading by an alloy kick strip at the level of the floor.
Internal length: 4100mm
Internal width: 2100mm
Internal height: 2250mm
Overall length: 6559mm
Maximum load volume: 22m3
Standard Payload: 1050kg*
Maximum Payload with optional lightweight body panels: 1300kg*
*The stated payload, as ever, is based on pre-determined criteria of Citroën’s (or Citroen’s). It’s each driver’s responsibility to verify the weight of the cargo (including the driver and passengers) to make sure that the van isn’t carrying more than it should.
As mentioned above, the Ready to Run Low-Floor Luton has a GVW (gross vehicle weight) of 3.5tonnes (3500kg). The GVW is the combined total legal permitted weight of the vehicle including the cargo (payload), the driver and any passengers, the fuel, etc. This van is based on the Citroen Relay 35 chassis cab van, and in fact all of the Ready to Run conversions are built on this same model of Relay.
The Low-Floor Luton Body
Loading is super easy in the Low-Floor Luton thanks to its rear doors; they open to 270° and are barn-door style, fitting flush with the van’s body. There’s also the option of a lightweight, rolling shutter instead of the barn doors. The sides of the body have “load lock strips” running along them which allow you to secure your cargo safely to the vehicle. And, as mentioned in the dimensions, you can choose Citroen’s lightweight body panels as an optional upgrade to increase the van’s payload.
The body floor is constructed from a durable sheet of birch plywood, treated for extra protection. On the outside, the Low-Floor Luton has a series of external marker lights.
Interior
Although the Low-Floor Luton is a utility vehicle, its cab is well arranged. The driver’s seat is comfortable and adjustable, with settings for rake, reach, height, and lumbar alterations. There’s an armrest too, just in case you need a bit of extra support. There’s air-conditioning in the cab, 2 USB ports, and a plastic clipboard that can act as an impromptu writing desk. It’s also handy to hold your phone, tablet, or unruly collection of paperwork.
On that note (no pun intended!), there’s adequate storage in the cab along with a locking glovebox to keep your valuable safe. The whole cab has deadlocks that can be controlled via remote central locking, so you shouldn’t need to worry about security.
All Citroen Ready to Run conversions have a reinforced battery, heavy-duty twin-leaf suspension at the rear, and wiring through the rear of the vehicle. Citroen also offer a list of optional upgrades including a speed limiter and Grip Control, the latter of which can be very useful if you encounter sand, snow, or mud, as it maximises traction for the front wheels.
Reliability
As the Citroen Relay is known for its durability and reliability, there shouldn’t be any issues with the Low-Floor Luton. If ever anything does arise, you can rest assured that, with Citroen’s large network of dealers and Business Centres, help will never be too far away. Citroen offer a 3-year, 100,000 mile warranty on the van, and they also give new buyers a free, 12-month subscription to Citroën Assistant. This is their 24/day emergency roadside assistance programme, so help will always be at hand if you need it. Hopefully though, you won’t.
Buying Used
If you’re looking to buy a second-hand Low-Floor Luton, the procedure will be very much the same as with any used vehicle purchase. Take the time to find out as much as you can about the van’s life before you found it, and ask your dealer every (relevant!) question you can think of to glean as much information as possible. Look at the service history, associated paperwork, and any invoices or receipts for work carried out. Inspect the body for evidence of damage or repair, and make sure that you feel confident before you buy.