After 1.5m units since launch of the first generation in 1996, Citroen’s third generation Berlingo is being launched with technology new to the LCV segment, such as an overload indicator – the claimed first application in a vehicle of this type – and, depending on model and option packs, up to 20 driver assistance systems and four connectivity technologies.

The range also includes models with the latest BlueHDi 1.5 diesel (the earlier engine, still available, was a 1.6) PureTech 1.2 petrol engines, and Citroen’s new Aisin-made EAT8 (speed) automatic gearbox. There are two sizes, M and XL, and dealers start taking orders in the autumn.

Citroen said use of the PSA EMP2 platform (which underpins multiple Peugeot, Citroen and Opel/Vauxhall models), enables the redesigned Berlingo to be “packed with useful technologies that seek to bring professionals a safer and more serene drive with a number of significant innovations”.

20 driver assistance systems

New to all LCV segments are:

Overload indicator – informs the driver when the maximum authorised payload is exceeded, be it overall maximum laden weight or the weight on each axle (front and rear). The measurement of the load weight is triggered in two ways: automatically, when the engine is started, or manually, when parked, by pushing the button located in the load area. The system remains active for five minutes.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Surround rear vision – This system enhances visibility around vehicles specified with unglazed rear doors. Images from two cameras (located at the base of the passenger-side door mirror and at the top of the rear doors), are displayed on a five-inch colour screen that replaces the traditional rear-view mirror. The system has three main functions:

  • Side passenger view: The driver can see the passenger side of the vehicle, by pushing a button on the indicator stalk.
  • Rear view monitoring: Provides an image from the rear of the vehicle when travelling forward. This effectively replaces the rear-view mirror.
  • Reversing camera: Displays the area behind the vehicle when in reverse gear. In forward gear, the default is Rear View Monitoring.

Other driver assist technology includes:

Colour head-up display; automatic electronic parking brake; adaptive cruise control (with stop function with automatic transmission); active lane departure warning system; driver attention alert; coffee break alert; extended traffic sign recognition and recommendation; blind spot monitoring system; distance alert; active safety brake; intelligent beam headlights (automatic high beam select); cornering light function (using the foglamps); keyless entry and start; hill start assist; flankguard which informs the driver of the proximity of objects to the side of the manoeuvring vehicle by memorising the data recorded by sensors located in the front and rear bumpers, combined with the vehicle trajectory; reversing camera; trailer stability control (if a towbar is installed) and grip control with hill descent assist which adapts the traction of the front wheels to the type of road surface.

Connectivity features are:

Mirror screen function with Android Auto, Apple Car Play and MirrorLink; and eight-inch ‘tablet style’ touchscreen with Connect Navigation which comes with connected services such as TomTom Traffic, for real-time traffic info, fuel station and car park localisation, weather information, and a local point-of-interest search function; Citroen Connect Box with Emergency & Assistance system; and wireless smartphone charging for smartphones or devices compatible with the Qi standard.

Citroen said it had achieved 9.7% share in 2017 in the commercial vehicle market in Europe, taking third place in the rankings with almost 73,000 units sold, with the current Berlingo continuing as the brand’s top-selling LCV. The current Berlingo accounted for 40% of its total LCV registrations in the first quarter of 2018.

The new model is offered in two sizes, M and XL, 4.40m long on a 2.78m wheelbase and 4.75m long on 2.97m.

Two dedicated versions – Worker and Driver – are available to suit different customer needs. The versions vary in terms of specification, with differing ground clearance, engine protection and equipment levels.

Worker is aimed at businesses that transport equipment and people and has three front seats, raised ground clearance (+30mm), a protective plate under the engine and enhanced traction thanks to Grip Control with Hill Descent Assist. The model has large wheels (690mm) with mud and snow tyres, extra payload of up to 1,000kg and a loading pack with enhanced LED lighting in the load area, overload indicator, 12V and 220V power sockets and mid-height load securing rings.

The Driver versions are for companies, and their employees, who need to make longer trips or numerous deliveries in urban areas. It is available with ‘acoustic enhancements’, dual zone air conditioning, seats with lumbar adjustment, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, cruise control/speed limiter, automatic electronic parking brake, eight-inch colour touchscreen with Connect Nav and DAB radio, and the surround rear vision system.

The Extenso Cab seats three people in one row while the Crew Van allows up to five to travel in two rows.

One or two sliding side doors are available.

Standard rear doors are 60/40 split unglazed with glazed, with heating and a wiper on the larger door, optional.

Payloads vary from 650kg to 1,000kg.

Engine and gearbox options are PureTech 1.2 petrol in 110PS Stop & Start with six-speed manual transmission and 130PS S&S EAT8 auto (from second half of 2019); the new BlueHDi 1.5 diesel in 130 S&S six-speed manual or with the EAT8 auto; and the carry over BlueHDi 1.6 diesel in 75PS manual or 100PS S&S manual specification.

The Berlingo is built at Vigo in Spain.

See also: PSA Group launching new generation LCV line-up