Citroen Berlingo Airdream van review – well-specced fun-to-drive all-rounder

Citroen Berlingo e-HDI Airdream EGS6 625 LX

What is it?

THE latest version of the enduringly popular Berlingo can still be referred to as ‘new’. The dramatic update it received in 2012 produced a sophisticated all-rounder that’s both fun to drive and easy to get on with.

The Berlingo can be had in two wheelbase versions (L1 & L2), with three trim levels (X, LX & Enterprise), and four engines (1.6i 95, HDi 75, HDi 90 & e-HDi 90). A five-speed manual or a six-speed automated manual EGS6 gearbox is offered.

Our test vehicle – an L1 with the LX trim level – is powered by a 1.6-litre, 90hp diesel with the six-speed ESG automated gearbox.

This ESG gearbox is a nifty piece of kit. A simple rotary switch selects Neutral, Auto or Reverse, or ‘Manual’ – which allows the driver to change up and down using steering column-mounted paddles. There is no clutch or gear lever.

I found the novelty of using the paddles soon wore off and I suspect the Berlingo would be used mostly in Auto mode, which would certainly be more relaxed for around-town work and in heavy traffic situations.

The e-HDi tag signifies the Airdream micro-hybrid package. This includes Stop/Start, and regenerative braking to recover and store energy.

It all helps towards the Berlingo achieving a stated combined fuel consumption figure of 62.6mpg, with CO2 emissions of 118g/km.