Star of the Citroën stand at the Geneva motor show is an all-new version of the Berlingo Multispace van-based MPV.
Citroën claims to have created the ‘leisure activity vehicle’ market when it launched the first Berlingo 22 years ago, and globally the model is now the brand’s second-largest seller. More than 1.7 million have found owners, beaten only by the C3.
The third-generation Berlingo will for the first time be available in two body lengths. These are dubbed M and XL and measure 4.4 and 4.75 metres respectively.
Seven seats and flat floor
The longer variant will join the now exclusive club of people carriers offering seven seats, while the second row will continue to provide three individually folding seats. Also available will be a flat floor through to the folding front passenger seat, offering maximum load lengths of 2.7 or 3.05 metres.
Underpinning the new model is Citroën’s latest EMP2 platform, and this has resulted in visual changes. The new Berlingo has a higher and shorter front end with a more forward-set windscreen. It also gains the ‘air bump’ styling side panels first seen on the first Cactus.
Technology upgrades to the Berlingo will include 19 driving assistance systems and four connectivity technologies. The engines will be updated too, including PSA Group’s new BlueHDi 130 1.5 diesel unit, and the new EAT8 eight-speed automatic gearbox.
New C4 Cactus popping up in UK showrooms
Berlingo sales are expected to begin in the second half of 2018, by which time the latest C4 Cactus will already be on the roads. The model makes its debut motor show appearance just as it is launching in the UK, the major changes seeing a pitch further upmarket with more comfort and updated technology.
The C4 Cactus is the first European Citroën offered with the Progressive Hydraulic Cushions (PHC) suspension system, producing what the brand describes as its ‘magic carpet ride’ effect. Citroën’s Advanced Comfort seats are also fitted, for the first time on any production model.
