Should you buy one?

Undoubtedly, the third-generation Citroen Berlingo won’t be to everyone’s taste: all manner of split-level lights at the front and AirBumps along the side are not distraction enough from those perpendicular van-like lines in the minds of some, but as a pragmatic choice, the Berlingo bristles with appeal for those who value spaciousness, comfort, practicality and low running costs. So yes, it should be on your shopping list.

Whether you prefer the styling of the Citroen over those of the Peugeot Rifter, Vauxhall Combo Life or Toyota Proace City Verso, all four offer a range of touches that make them more appealing than the Ford Tourneo Connect and Volkswagen Caddy Life.

What we like

Like its siblings, the Berlingo scores highly for the amount of space you get for your money. Even the shorter M version has a boot far larger than similarly priced SUVs and estates, while the XL is particularly cavernous, especially if you remove the rear seats.

We appreciate the focus on comfort over handling, and the Berlingo has a more appealing interior than the majority of van based MPVs. That it’s also reasonably equipped also helps make it more appealing.

What we don’t like

Some might wish for a more powerful engine option, especially if towing is on the agenda. After all, the Touran and 2 Series Active Tourer are available with a bigger 2.0-litre diesel with 150hp.

It’s not particularly fun to drive either, while the interior is a symphony of scratchy plastics albeit lifted by a few colourful trims. It’s certainly much less drab than the Vauxhall Combo Life, and it’ll no doubt be hardwearing, too.

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