Verdict: Refined, comfortable, smart looks and cheap to run
The Relay’s driving position is one of the best in the business.
What’s hot?
> Stylish or what? We always liked the looks of the old Relay but with each face-lift (and there have been a few along the way) this van just keeps getting better looking. It might not mean a lot to fleet buyers but for small firms, a smart looking van will speak volumes about the quality of the business.
> The driver’s seat in the Relay has always been one of the best in the business so it hasn’t been altered. But we thought we’d add it to the list as it is still up there with the best. It’s got loads of lumbar support and adjusts in all directions for a comfy position for just about everyone.
> We’ve just got to give a nod to that Teletrac sat-nav and stolen tracking device which comes free with most Citroen vans. It would be easy to think it’s just one of those cheap Halfords affairs but it does so much more. Tap a little icon on the screen and you are straight through to a very knowledgeable lady at Teletrac HQ in Oxfordshire, who knows the answer to just about any question you can ask her.
> You speak to her through the device itself and (having had a tour of the HQ so we know) she sits there surrounded with computers and piles of books so she can help you, whatever your need. Apparently the most frequently asked question is the location of the nearest McDonalds, which is a rather sad reflection on the eating habits of our readers. Come on – at least choose Burger King!!!!
> We always thought the old Relay was pretty smooth and quiet but this new version is noticeably quieter. The nips and tucks are pretty technical so we don’t need to list them all in detail, but they certainly add up to a better driving experience. This van is slated to return not far short of 40mpg too, which is pretty amazing for a vehicle of this size.
> Our test van was massive in the back, with room to stand up without bending. It holds 13 cubic metres of cargo and over a tonne and a half in weight. It hasn’t changed since the old model but what’s new are the 15 load lashing eyes. Some of them are at waist height too, which makes them a lot more useful than when they were all in the floor.
Our test Relay was the long-wheelbase, high roof version with 13 cubic feet of load area.
What’s not?
> Ever been nutted by an overhead parcel shelf? No, nor had I until I climbed into this van for the first time. The delivery driver had wound the driver’s seat up to its full height and as I climbed aboard – BANG – my poor old swede went right into the edge of the shelf. It doesn’t happen as much now that I’ve lowered the seat, but it’s still uncomfortably close to my head.
> Talking of lethal bits of kit, watch out for the handbrake lever. It’s between the driver’s seat and the door and sticks out rather too far. Take an enthusiastic leap out of the van and you risk leaving your family jewels dangling on the end of the lever. Eek!
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