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2008 Citroen Berlingo Multispace Review

June 2008
Filed under: CITROEN Car News | CITROEN Headlines
Citroën is launching the Berlingo Multispace, an all-new version of the UK’s most popular value MPV. This fun new model boasts distinctive design, a spacious and versatile interior and offers exceptional value for money. Since the original Berlingo Multispace was launched in 1998, it has created and dominated the value MPV sector with over 50,000 sales in the UK. Now, improving upon the credentials of its predecessor, the grown-up new Berlingo Multispace offers the space of an MPV and the creature comforts of a family car at the price of a supermini.

Brimming with clever touches like interior roofbars, a removable storage console, an integrated air-freshener or a dual-function bootlight/torch, the Multispace marries exceptional practicality with intelligent design. At the same time, optional trim levels like the rugged-looking, range-topping XTR, allow customers to personalise their Multispace experience with a choice of bright body finishes coordinated with vivid interior trim colours together with the clever Modutop® storage system.

Based on the running gear of the multi award-winning C4 Picasso, the Multispace delivers an ultra smooth ride and optimum driver comfort with its longer wheelbase. The interior is a bright and spacious environment. A large panoramic windscreen ensures maximum visibility and can be complemented by four glass panels in the roof allowing light to flood into the cabin. The twin sliding rear passenger doors not only provide easy access but also accommodate larger rear windows, making the Multispace an even brighter place to be.

For the comfort of backseat passengers, there can be three independently reclining and removable rear seats. Removing any or all of the seats opens up a vast loadspace for the transportation of long or bulky items. This, plus the generous legroom, foldable central rear seat with a table-top and aircraft-style trays on the seat backs give the Multispace’s rear passengers both comfort and functionality on the move.

With prices starting at just £10,995, the new Berlingo Multispace is an attractive option to buyers looking for exceptional value for money. With improved equipment levels, reassuring safety technology, a wide choice of engines, extensive space and storage, 50mpg economy and low insurance ratings, the new Multispace drives down the cost of ownership whilst increases buyer satisfaction.

The ultra-practical, family-friendly character of the new Multispace makes it equally at home cruising on the open roads or nipping around urban areas. The generous internal space, extensive storage solutions and modular layout design means the Multispace a perfect companion for a wide variety of uses, particularly for active families and individuals alike who regularly require transport for large items like sports equipment.

The clever storage options that made the original Multispace a firm family favourite have been further improved. Passengers can now store even more items in the new model with an extensive range of stowage compartments located throughout the whole car.

The original Multispace’s celebrated design feature, the Modutop® roof, has also been restyled and updated, utilising the height of the Berlingo to maximise the overhead storage space. The Modutop® system consists of front and central overhead compartments, with built-in scented air-freshener, and a dual-opening boot-mounted storage box which can be accessed on the move. There is also a convenient power socket for portable electronic devices. Alternatively, the Multispace can be fitted with internal roof bars for long items such as skis to be transported inside the car eliminating the risk of theft and not impacting on fuel efficiency.

A removable central storage console fitted between the front seats can be used for anything from a toy box to a picnic basket, and also has two convenient cup holders on top. And taking advantage of every opportunity there are additional storage spaces almost everywhere - under the front seats, in the rear footwells, above the rear side doors and even incorporated into the dashboard.

Ideal for transporting large amounts of equipment, the new Multispace features a large load space of 675-litres under the parcel shelf alone (51-litres more than the previous Multispace), which can be increased to a cavernous 3,000-litre volume by taking out the rear seats. When the boot is full, an opening tailgate window can provide easy access to items in the boot or on the parcel shelf. Externally, there is an additional storage option of roof bars, which can be fitted longitudinally or laterally when Modutop® is fitted.

As you can trust from an award-winning manufacturer of family vehicles, safety comes as standard. With its EuroNCAP rating (4-stars for adult and child occupant protection and 2-stars for pedestrian), the new Multispace offers an advanced level of protection for its important cargo. A reinforced body and cabin structure, ABS with EBD & EBA and three Isofix anchor points all come as standard making the Multispace a reassuringly safe place on the move. Offering even more protection, up to six airbags, ESP with Hill Start Assist, a tyre pressure monitor system and automatic door locks for when the vehicle is in motion, are also available.

The new Multispace is offered in a choice of three trim levels – VT, VTR and XTR – and in line with its sophisticated new styling, is available with an impressive range of equipment for the convenience of driver and passengers like Rear Parking sensors, Cruise control with Speed Limiter, Audio System with MP3-CD player, Integrated Bluetooth hands-free kit, a dual-function boot-light/torch and even a built-in scented air freshener.

Meeting a range of driver requirements, the new Multispace will be available with a choice of five engines. There will be two petrol units available and three HDi diesel powerplants, with a new to the range, upmarket 110hp 1.6HDi engine for punchy performance and strong economy.

On sale from June 12 2008, prices for the new Berlingo Multispace will start at £10,995 for the entry-level petrol model up to £14,625 for the range-topping 1.6HDi 110hp XTR version. Due to the success of its forerunner, the original Berlingo Multispace will continue to be sold as the lower-cost Berlingo First Multispace.

Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director of Citroën UK commented: “Versatility, practicality and functionality are key requirements in this segment. We at Citroën know this, because we created that market when we launched the first Berlingo Multispace in 1998. It pioneered and led a market, outselling all of its competitors and offered families a vehicle with all the space they wanted, all the safety features they needed and all the practicality they desired.

10 years on and the brand new Berlingo Multispace arrives with a contemporary new look, designed to cater for an even wider range of uses. With more storage options, more versatility and even more comfort, technology, safety and value for money, the new Multispace offers everything and more that today’s consumer desires in this type of vehicle - Citroën’s type of vehicle.”

Market Story

Since its launch in 1998, the Berlingo Multispace has become the clear leader in the segment. Indeed, Citroën was responsible for creating the market for value MPV concepts, kick-starting a trend in functional, versatile and affordable small family vehicles for active lifestyles.

In the UK alone, Citroën has seen more than 50,000 Berlingo Multispace sales. Worldwide, Citroën has sold more than 1.8 million Berlingos – 1 million of which have been the car version. Adapting to all situations, the original Berlingo Multispace met the growing need for vehicles offering freedom and versatility in use. The new Berlingo Multispace gives Citroën another strong product in this segment, and perfectly complements the Berlingo First Multispace.

Multispace People
The original Berlingo Multispace was a popular choice for a wide demographic of discerning consumers and proved an excellent companion to users who required comfort, space and value for money as well as those with active lifestyles who needed a vehicle to complement and support their outdoor pursuits.

Market research shows buyers are predominantly male who are practical and independent thinkers with a mindset towards a relaxing lifestyle. They enjoy touring, cycling, gardening, trekking and sports and appreciate the spaciousness, convenience and visibility of the vehicle.

Delivering on all of these requirements, with its increased space, added functionality and premium style, the new Multispace will have even greater appeal to buyers who like to ‘pack up and go,’ and need a functional, durable and spacious utilitarian vehicle. At the same time, buyers will also be looking for the style, comfort and economy that are highly desired qualities of a modern MPV. The new Multispace is a car that delivers on all these requirements.

Product In Detail

Exterior Styling
The new Berlingo Multispace is longer (+24cm) and wider (+8cm) than its forerunner, which translates into a more spacious interior. An increase to the wheelbase further contributes to the visual impression of generous volumes and projects a strong road presence.

A bold and distinctive new-style corporate face embodies the Company’s iconic chevrons into the sculpted bonnet, immediately identifying the car’s Citroën identity. The deep wraparound bumper asserts the adventurous qualities of the car. From bonnet to boot, a clear design focus has been placed on the angles of the new Berlingo Multispace. The assertive headlamps and smooth curves of the bonnet lead to taut side lines, and sculpted wheel arches giving the car a more aerodynamic profile.

The Multispace’s wide, steeply raked windscreen gives drivers optimum visibility with a large glazed area of 4.6m², echoing the spacious dimensions of the interior. The car’s rear aspect is defined by striking tail lights and a wraparound rear bumper with cubic lines which protects the elegant curving tailgate.

The new Multispace in XTR trim, transforms the car into full ‘go anywhere’ mode with black and silver coloured body sections, side rubbing strips and tinted rear windows giving a rugged and active appearance. Heightened front and rear suspension (+10mm), chunky 16” tyres and a “styled” engine cover plate equip the XTR for the active individual.

Interior
The new Multispace offers a refined interior that is both modern and hard wearing. Using premium materials throughout the cabin, a bold colour co-ordinated interior trim, exudes quality and the carpeting and availability of fabric-lined door armrests can add a plush feel, enhancing the comfort for occupants.

The atmosphere inside the new Multispace is one of space and light and an integrated scented air freshener can be fitted to create a pleasant aroma. The large panoramic windscreen, expansive rear windows along with the Modutop®’s clear glass roof panels and translucent central shelf all allow plenty of light into the Multispace’s interior creating a bright and refreshing driving environment.

Dynamics

Based on the running gear of the C4 Picasso, the new Berlingo Multispace offers an ultra smooth and comfortable ride with an ergonomic driving position and easy-to-reach controls to offer a more involved driving experience. With a long wheelbase, bigger tyres and wider tracks, the new Multispace boasts road manners and a level of stability that is exceptional for this segment.

The exterior height of the new Multispace has been unchanged in order to maintain the car’s aerodynamic performance. The suspension is tailored for a full range of driving situations with handling designed to minimise pitch and roll.

The MacPherson-type front suspension features lower wishbones and an anti-roll bar meaning new Berlingo combines optimised handling and driving comfort. The rear suspension is based on a transverse beam and anti-roll bar with coil springs to maximise the ride comfort.

Additionally, Citroën’s designers have inclined the shock absorbers to minimise the intrusion of the wheel arches translating into more internal space.

Functionality

Seating
A fully adjustable layout with modular seat design, gives users an extensive choice of combinations to make the most of the available space. The new Multispace can be fitted with three independent, rear seats which can each be tumbled forward to increase the rear boot space, or for maximum load volume can be taken out. Leaving either one or two rear seats in place becomes ideal for transporting long objects whilst also transporting rear passengers. Having three independent rear seats means each can be reclined, allowing passengers to select their most comfortable seating position.

The Multispace’s functional design ensures that both front and rear passengers have access to the cabin’s intelligent storage features. When not in use the central rear seat can be folded forwards to reveal a clever table incorporating a shelf, an armrest and a cup holder.

Even at full rear occupancy with three passengers there are still surfaces to utilise. The backs of the front seats are fitted with carry hooks, aircraft-style trays that flip down and zip or netted pockets for stowing loose items – ideal features to help keep young passengers entertained on the move.

Loading
The Multispace’s exterior also features choice and versatility. For a wide range of access requirements, the new Multispace is fitted with two sliding rear doors – ideal for parents cautious of getting children in and out of the vehicle at the roadside. The sliding doors’ wide opening provides easy access to the rear seats.

At the rear, the Multispace’s vast boot is accessed by a large tailgate allowing for wide objects to be loaded with ease. An optional split tailgate with opening window not only provides easy access to the boot in confined spaces but also allows the transportation of long objects like skiis.

Space and Storage
Hinted at by its name, the original Berlingo Multispace’s celebrated design offered users an extensive array of clever storage solutions capable of transporting all the equipment and luggage an active family could need. With a larger floor pan and some clever new design modifications, the new Multispace offers owners even more space.

Depending on trim level there is up to 170-litres of storage in addition to the boot space. Passengers can now store even more items than previously in the Modutop® overhead storage system, stowage compartments in the dashboard, under-seat storage and a compartmented glovebox.

Drivers and front occupants can utilise plenty of easy-access storage in addition to the space provided by the overhead Modutop® compartments. There are storage bins in both driver and passenger doors and a conveniently placed high mounted glove box on top of the dashboard, with a deep open shelf on the passenger side. A hook fixed to the side of the passenger’s foot well also provides a simple but effective solution for hanging handbags or shopping, preventing content spillages when the vehicle is in transit.

The new Multispace features a generous boot space – 51-litres more than the previous model – and can reach a cavernous 3,000-litres when all rear seats are removed giving a full 2m of length available behind the front seats. And it’s not just more storage space that’s available in the new Multispace as rear passengers can now enjoy the best legroom in the segment (24.5cm).

Boot space litres
With parcel shelf 675
With three rear seats removed 3,000

Modutop®
The Modutop® roof with its overhead storage rack and compartments, a signature design feature of the Multispace, has been redesigned utilising the height of the Multispace’s roof to maximise the practicality of the overhead space. The easy-to-reach sturdy compartments help reduce mess in the cabin and are an ideal means of keeping small items like books, maps or soft drinks securely out of the way.

A handy storage box is fitted in the rear section of the Modutop® layout with dual-access from the rear seats via simple sliding panels or from the boot with an aviation-inspired pull-down drawer which can be accessed even when the boot is full thanks to the Multispace’s split tailgate.

Convenient sockets in the roof compartments allow for electronic devices such as MP3 players or portable DVD players to be plugged in. The Modutop®’s efficient design layout also means that four large glass panels can be fitted around the central console allowing plenty of light into the cabin and enhancing the feeling of space.

Alternatively, the Multispace can be fitted with modular interior roof bars. For the first time users can mount and carry long objects of up to 2m on the inside of the vehicle. Making the maximum use of the Multispace’s headroom, the internal roof rack can be used to transport expensive items like skis and DIY equipment without affecting the aerodynamics of the vehicle, saving fuel and performance, and eliminating the risk of theft.

A removable central console locks in place between the front seats with a capacity of up to 13-litres and two cup holders on the top this neat box can be used for a variety of purposes, inside the car or out.

Pullout drawers under both front seats and compartments in the rear footwells, offer space of up to 8.5-litres and 7-litres each respectively, providing a simple, effective and hidden storage solution.

When the Modutop® is fitted, exterior roof bars are available offering a practical solution for transporting large items that can’t be fitted inside the vehicle, or to carry items in addition to a full internal load. The secure bars can be placed longitudinally or laterally depending on the user requirements.

Comfort

Acoustics
In fitting with the MPV’s saloon-like levels of comfort, the new Berlingo Multispace has been designed to optimise the car’s aerodynamics to reduce wind noise whilst at the same time minimizing external sounds with advanced acoustic dampening. The Multispace’s engine is now encapsulated in an almost soundproof cocoon. The floorpan has received gravel-chipping protection and the cabin now features a wide range of absorbent materials in the dashboard and the roof.

Optimum Driving Position
The raised seating position of the new Multispace puts the driver firmly in control. With supportive driver’s dual armrests, premium seat materials and a height-and-reach adjustable steering wheel and driver’s seat, Multispace drivers can easily find their optimum driving posture for comfort and control.

A panoramic windscreen, large side windows and wide exterior door mirrors provide excellent driving visibility and easy-reach vehicle controls like a dashboard-mounted gear lever allows drivers to maintain focus on the road.

Technology

Unusual for a vehicle in this class, the new Multispace is available with clever and convenient technological equipment including air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, seat belt and tyre pressure warning systems, a speed limiter and cruise control as well as automatic headlights and windscreen wipers.

The Multispace’s audio system is fitted with an MP3-compatible CD player as well as an optional CD multi-changer. Steering wheel mounted controls allow easy operation and an auxiliary input can also be fitted to connect portable music devices like MP3 players. A Bluetooth car kit is also available facilitating safe, hands-free communication on the road.

A neat feature is also evident in the rear of the new Multispace where the boot-light doubles as a removable hand-held torch. When mounted the boot-light/torch’s batteries are recharged. A 12V socket is also available in the boot for a convenient access point to charge or power appliances.

Safety & Security

The Company’s high benchmark for safety has made Citroën’s vehicles some of the safest on the road today, with recognised award-winning safety technology. The new Multispace is no exception having been awarded an excellent EuroNCAP rating with 4-star protection for both adult and child occupants and a 2-star rating for pedestrian protection.

A reinforced body and cabin structure, with particular attention paid to the rear and centre pillars, is stiff enough to protect occupants and flexible enough to soak up the energy of minor impacts. Internally, the Multispace provides all round protection. With up to six airbags available, occupants in the front seats are protected by driver and front passenger airbags as standard with a further two side chest airbags and two curtain airbags also available.

The high level of safety and security on the vehicle means that owners can benefit from insurance ratings as low as group 3E.

All Berlingo Multispace models feature ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Braking Assistance (EBA) helping drivers to safely bring the vehicle to a stop in all conditions. For greater stopping power, the Multispace is fitted with disc brakes all round with vented disc brakes at the front providing a confident brake response. In the event of quick deceleration or heavy braking, the hazard lights are automatically activated providing a warning to vehicles behind.

In addition, an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control and Hill-Start Assist function is available, making pulling away on a steep gradient easier and safer, regardless of the load in the car. The system is engaged if the vehicle is stopped on a slope of 5% or more, and facing up hill in forward gear or down hill in reverse. Once the footbrake is released, the ESP automatically holds the vehicle in position for up to two seconds giving the driver plenty of time to pull away. The ESP system also ensures better stability around corners and helps drivers in controlling of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions.

The Multispace’s headlights detect low light levels and will switch on automatically if the driver has failed to switch on the lights manually, for example when entering a tunnel, or pulling away at night.

In a first for the segment, the new Multispace is available with a Low Pressure Tyre Warning System. If low pressure is detected, the system immediately alerts the driver via an audible warning and a message on the multi-function screen. In the event of a puncture, a ‘Stop’ light also appears.

For increased protection against theft, the Multispace can be specified with an ultrasonic alarm.

Ensuring child passengers cannot inadvertently open the doors whilst driving, the Berlingo’s doors and boot automatically lock when the vehicle starts to move and a button on the dashboard allows drivers to activate the electric child lock manually. For securely fitting child seats, the front passenger and two rear side seats are fitted with Isofix anchor points. A seatbelt warning system alerts drivers to child passengers undoing their seatbelts when the vehicle is in motion emitting an audible warning and indicating a graphic on the display panel.

Engines
Meeting a range of driver requirements, the new Multispace will be available with a choice of five engines. There are two petrol units available and three HDi diesel powerplants, with a new to the range, upmarket 110hp 1.6Hdi engine for punchy performance and strong economy.

VT

1.6i 16V 90hp
£10,995.00

1.6Hdi 75hp
£11,455.00

1.6Hdi 90hp
£11,905.00

VTR

1.6i 16V 90hp
£11,465.00

1.6i 16V 110hp
£11,915.00

1.6Hdi 75hp
£11,925.00

1.6Hdi 90hp
£12,375.00

XTR

1.6i 16V 110hp
(Available Sept 08)
£13,165.00

1.6HDi 90hp
£13,625.00

1.6HDi 110hp
£14,625.00

Built for the great outdoors, the new Multispace is designed to minimise its impact on the environment. The new ultra clean 1.6HDi engine fitted with the Particulate Filter System (DPFS) combines excellent fuel economy of up to 50mpg with confident performance. All of Citroën’s HDi engines can run on a fuel blend of up to 30% biodiesel with no modification promoting the use of renewable and sustainable energy.

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