Citroën Berlingo XL: Test rodinného dieselu s automatickou převodovkou

The traditional family minivan is becoming increasingly rare, replaced in many markets by commercial vans offering flexible space. Citroën is responding to this shift with models like the Berlingo, positioned as a mid-size option capable of handling everything from strollers and bicycles to ski equipment – and more. We recently tested the Citroën Berlingo XL, equipped with a 130-horsepower diesel engine and an automatic transmission.

Ideal for Larger Families

Citroën offers several van models, with the Berlingo representing the smallest. The larger SpaceTourer, which we will be reviewing soon, leans more towards a full-fledged commercial vehicle. The Citroën Berlingo is available with both all-electric and diesel powertrains, catering to a range of customer preferences.

The Berlingo also comes in two body lengths, designated “M” and “XL” – a nod to clothing sizes. These differ in both wheelbase and overall length. The shorter Berlingo M has a wheelbase of 2785 mm and a total length of 4403 mm, while the longer Berlingo XL, featured in our test, boasts a wheelbase of 2975 mm and a total length of 4753 mm. While the shorter version is limited to five seats, the XL can accommodate either five or seven passengers.

Our test vehicle featured three rows of seating, offering space for seven passengers. All seats – front, middle, and rear – are individually adjustable and can be folded down independently. The rear seats can also be easily removed, as demonstrated in the accompanying video starting around the 1:30 mark. All three rows provide ample headroom and legroom for average-sized adults, with the third row offering a similar seating position height to the second. This flexible seating arrangement is a key feature for families needing adaptable space.

And then there’s the cargo area. The Citroën Berlingo XL delivers a massive and highly usable storage space. It’s not just about the numbers; the well-shaped area easily accommodates items like strollers, large grocery hauls, or even bicycles (though some seat adjustments may be needed). The independent, foldable seats allow for a truly customizable interior layout, akin to a Tetris game.

Being primarily a practical van, the Berlingo also provides numerous storage compartments and spaces throughout the cabin. This isn’t a luxury in a family vehicle, but a daily necessity. There’s room for drinks, toys, cables (even with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus a phone charger), and other essentials. Storage is available in the doors, on the dashboard, and even in an overhead shelf.

The current Berlingo has undergone a facelift, resulting in a noticeably more modern interior, particularly in the infotainment system. However, Citroën has retained physical controls for the climate system below the touchscreen, along with a separate display. This ergonomic approach is appreciated for its ease of use – no need to navigate menus, just an intuitive reach and adjustment.

Disabling the active driving assistance systems is also straightforward. It’s done through the infotainment display by pressing the car icon on the center console, which brings up the car settings menu, including a “Favorites” section for quick access to the assistance features. Holding the button down longer sets the systems to your previously defined preferences.

Behind the Wheel

Under the hood, our test vehicle featured the sole diesel engine currently offered: a 1.5 BlueHDi 130 four-cylinder engine producing 96 kW/131 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. This was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (a six-speed manual is standard) and drives the front wheels (four-wheel drive is not available).

How does the Citroën Berlingo drive? Surprisingly well for what it is. It offers a comfortable ride and doesn’t feel like a typical commercial van. The suspension is tuned for softness, and the cabin is well-insulated, effectively absorbing most road imperfections. While comfortable, the large body does create some aerodynamic noise at highway speeds.

Performance is adequate, but not exhilarating. It handles city speeds with ease, but power reserves are limited when exiting the city or on the highway. This is especially noticeable when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers or cargo. Overtaking slower vehicles on country roads requires planning, though maintaining a steady 130-140 km/h on the highway is achievable. However, it doesn’t accelerate as quickly as the larger 180-horsepower Citroën Space Tourer we tested a week later.

However, this is a family vehicle designed to comfortably and reliably transport a family and their belongings across long distances. The optional automatic transmission helps with this. It’s controlled by a small joystick on the dashboard and is a conventional eight-speed automatic. It operates smoothly and predictably, making manual gear changes via steering wheel paddles unnecessary, though available if desired.

One drawback is the relatively small 50-liter fuel tank. Fortunately, fuel economy is surprisingly good, helping to mitigate this. The onboard computer showed a combined consumption of around 6.5 l/100 km. This figure can be reduced further on country roads, while highway driving at 130 km/h typically results in around 7 l/100 km.

Verdict and Pricing

The Citroën Berlingo XL has returned to the lineup with a diesel engine option (previously available only as an electric vehicle), a move that has revitalized sales. It’s the kind of vehicle you buy with your head, not your heart – a practical solution that reliably transports a family and their belongings. It feels more like an MPV than a full-fledged van compared to the SpaceTourer, yet still offers ample space and interior versatility. It offers up to three rows of independently foldable (and removable) seats, a fuel-efficient engine, and a comfortable ride. While it’s not without its flaws – it can be noisy on the highway and performance suffers when loaded – it remains a compelling option.

Pricing is competitive. The current Czech price list starts at 645,000 Kč (including VAT) for the shorter Berlingo M with a manual transmission, with the automatic option costing 695,000 Kč (including VAT). These prices apply to the MAX trim level; the base PLUS trim is only available as an electric vehicle. The longer, tested Berlingo XL starts at 645,000 Kč (including VAT) for the lower PLUS trim, with the automatic version priced at 705,000 Kč (including VAT). The higher (tested) MAX trim level costs 680,000 Kč (including VAT) or 730,000 Kč (including VAT).

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Tags: Berlingo, citroen, Citroën Berlingo, Citroën Berlingo XL, test