• Robust plastics lifted with a few splashes of colour
• But the driving position betrays its commercial vehicle origins
• Very easy to get comfy, though; excellent visibility

How is the quality and layout?

First things first: from the driver’s seat of the Citroen Berlingo, there’s no escaping the fact that you’re in a van-derived car. You’re sat high up with massive windows, plus its width and the amount of space above your head reinforce the commercial vehicle feel of it.

Visibility is a strong point, save for the thick bases of the windscreen pillars, but they’re annoying rather than something to hide a cyclist or pedestrian in the blind spot.

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Plastics on the dash and door panels aren’t squidgy soft-touch materials, but they are well-assembled, feel robust and attractively trimmed. Most Berlingos have what looks like a flecked stone finish, while Max versions feature a green, rubbery coating on many of the surfaces.

Infotainment

The 10-in touchscreen is a big improvement on the pre-2024 8-inch system, with crisper graphics and quicker responses. It’s also easier to navigate that what you’ll get in a VW Caddy Life. You get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard to sort music, nav and more, with built-in sat nav an option on Max rim.

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Comfort

• Soft seats won’t suit everyone
• But driving position fundamentally sound
• Full-size centre seat in second row means occupants won’t feel pinched

You’ll find the Berlingo’s driving position is decent, with seat, pedals and wheel lining up nicely. The top-spec Max’s Advanced Comfort front seats certainly feel softer and comfier than what you might expect from what’s essentially a van, and all Berlingos get adjustable lumbar support for the front seats.

Those in the middle row will appreciate the opening windows in the sliding doors and the three equally-sized chairs. That means the centre passenger isn’t perched on something designed for only occasional use, which combined with the flat floor make it a great option for those who regularly have a car full of people.