Citroën’s recently announced, updated and lower emissions Berlingo and Dispatch vans will make their debut at this year’s CV Show (24-26 April, NEC Hall 2, Stand 2F60). They will be shown alongside models from the Euro 5 Nemo and Relay ranges, including models from the Relay Specialist range.
BERLINGO The award-winning Berlingo has gained further improvements for 2012. The latest model boasts a more robust and expressive design, with additional features that make it an even more compelling package for LCV operators.
Among the styling upgrades, the Berlingo gains a wider, more defined grille incorporating updated chevrons and a new headlight arrangement. The wider air intake on the front bumper gives the vehicle a more powerful stance on the road and the door mirrors gain a more aerodynamic design to help reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
At the rear, the new Berlingo again displays the updated Citroën brand identity. Inside, the existing upholstery has been replaced by Citroën’s new ‘Gazyban’ grey trim for increased comfort and a more modern look.
In addition to its attractive styling, the Berlingo remains robust, spacious and immensely practical. With a maximum load capacity of 4.1 m3, sliding side doors and 60/40 rear doors opening to 180°, the Berlingo can carry two euro pallets easily and safely. For even greater versatility, the Extenso® folding passenger bench seat for two is standard on LX and Enterprise models.
For even greater safety on the road, the Berlingo is available with Grip Control to increase traction, incorporating hill-start assist. HDi and e-HDi versions can now be specified with a fixed speed limiter enabling the operator to set a permanent maximum speed from a choice of four available limits.
The new Berlingo is offered with one petrol and four diesel powertrains. With improved efficiency and environmental performance, the HDi 75 now emits 133g/km of CO2 – down from 136g/km – thanks to changes including the new aerodynamic upgrades. The HDi 90 now emits 138g/km – down from 140g/km.
The ‘greenest’ and most fuel efficient Berlingo, the e-HDi 90 Airdream EGS6, features e-HDi micro-hybrid technology with Stop & Start and a six-speed automated manual gearbox, and delivers even lower CO2 emissions of just 123g/km. On top of the economic and environmental benefits, this powertrain provides the benefits of two-pedal driving. To select auto, neutral, reverse or manual, the driver uses a fascia-mounted dial. There are then steering-mounted paddles for use in manual mode.
DISPATCH Similar to Berlingo, the Dispatch gains a new front end, featuring a new chevron design and a wide chrome grille that extends up to the headlights. The model also has enhanced equipment.
For greater safety and convenience, the latest Dispatch is available with hill-start assist and the same fixed speed limiter functionality as Berlingo. For enhanced peace of mind, Grip Control is available for the first time, with the driver choosing one of four modes – normal, all-terrain, snow or sand. This advanced anti-skid option optimises traction and adapts to all driving conditions. An optional tyre pressure monitor is also introduced.
Special efforts have been made to reduce the model’s CO2emissions with the addition of aerodynamic panels underneath the body and a ‘volt control’ function to optimise battery charge management by the alternator. This has seen Dispatch emissions fall to 177g/km from 182g/km for models powered by the HDi 90 engine and from 179g/km to 168g/km with the HDi 125.
Scott Michael, Citroën’s Commercial Vehicle Operations Manager, comments: “Our CV Show display demonstrates Citroën’s advanced technology, which results in some of the most fuel efficient and lowest emission vehicles available in the UK. Today’s Citroën LCV range offers UK businesses an unrivalled choice of vans, enhanced traction vans, platform cabs, crew vans, chassis cabs, chassis crew cabs and specialist bodied vehicles.”
