Citroën Berlingo (1998 - 2009) 1.6 HDi 16V Forte 5d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Sensible, family man. Although I have been asked why I bought a disabled car? Kind of knocks the ego a bit. But used as a van, or a person who needs lots of space, makes an obvious choice.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Parents like it, mam wants it. Friends and colleagues not so sure on first impression - (disabled van stigma).

Would you buy this car again and why?

I like the newer Berlingo as it's a nicer shape. Citroen seem to have improved every area of the original. The interior is much improved and the addition of air-con would be good.

What are you likely to buy next?

Will stick with this one for a couple of years and then have a look at the newer Berlingo's. The new Dispatch is tempting too.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,900

When did you buy the car?

July 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

I did get a good deal as the list price for my vehicle's age and mileage was about £500 more expensive than I paid. I wasn't overly happy about having to pay to have the car brought from another dealership however.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Practicality mainly. I'm a gardener part-time and have a young daughter. I'm not bothered about high performance or owning the flashiest cars.

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly. Family man like myself. Always greeted me with a smile and a handshake.

What's it like to drive?

I like driving it. The elevated driving position is good for seeing the road ahead. Bit rolly polly if you take a corner too fast. Gets quite twitchy if you remove the rear seats without a load in, but creates even more space.

What's it like to park?

I find it quite easy to park. It's a handy shape for reversing. Light steering. There's lots of glass behind you and you can see the bonnet in front of you so it takes the guesswork out of it.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not so far, touch wood. Only owned the car for 3 months, but after nearly 5000 miles, still goes really well. I drive it hard now and again to clean out the particulate filter.

What's most practical about your car?

Sheer space. I can fit 4 wheelie bins upright in the back. 2 large lawnmowers are a doddle to wheel up into the back because of the flat load bay. A full builders bag full of grass etc fits in easily.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Hasn't got any gadgets in this spec, bar the usual PAS and electric windows.