The Citroen Valingo MPV: An Electric Option
In the United Kingdom, the Citroen Valingo MPV was initially introduced solely as an electric vehicle, known as the E-Bilingo. It featured a 50 kilowatt-hour battery and had a range of up to 177 miles in the shorter five-seat version or 168 miles in the longer seven-seater with a wheelbase. However, due to overwhelming demand, Citroen has now reintroduced petrol and diesel options for the Valingo.
Multiple Fuel Options
Customers can now choose between the company’s 1.2-liter, three-cylinder petrol engine or a 1.5 Diesel when purchasing the Valingo. Additionally, the diesel option is available with an 8-speed automatic transmission for those who prefer automatic cars. The prices for the five-seat electric E-Bilingo start at £32,315, while the petrol and diesel models both start at around £25,500 for the entry-level Field trim.
The Electric-only Berlingo XL7 Seater
However, the Berlingo XL7 seater remains exclusively electric, meaning it cannot be equipped with petrol or diesel engines. This variant also comes in the same base Field trim and starts at £33,315.
Fantastic Family Practicality
Having personally lived with the Citroen E-Bilingo, specifically the shorter five-seat version, I can attest to its incredible functionality as a family car. Forget the popularity of SUVs; for true family practicality, vans are the way forward. The sliding doors of the Valingo are incredibly useful in tight parking spaces, and my six-year-old daughter absolutely adores the convenience of simply climbing in without any obstacles and walking straight across the flat floor to her seat.
In conclusion, the Citroen Valingo MPV offers a range of fuel options, including electric, petrol, and diesel. While the shorter five-seat version is available in all fuel types, the longer seven-seater variant is exclusively electric. Regardless of the fuel option, the Valingo excels in providing unparalleled practicality for families, making it a noteworthy contender in the market.
The Practicality and Spaciousness of the Brilliant Car
When it comes to practicality and space, this car is absolutely brilliant. With its three individual molded seat bases, it’s perfect for car seats. Not only that, but the boot is also incredibly spacious. In the long wheelbase version, the back seats can be removed, and even when they’re in, you still have a lot of space. The car offers over a thousand liters of space when the middle seats are dropped. Additionally, the seats have a sturdy metal backing, adding to the durability of the vehicle. In total, the car boasts an impressive 4,000 liters of space, making it more than just a regular van.
A Comparison to Other Vehicles
To put the car’s spaciousness into perspective, let’s compare it to other popular vehicles. A Range Rover, for example, only has 725 liters of space. In contrast, the rear seats in this car fold up and down easily and can be removed without much hassle. The middle row of seats offers ample space, although it would have been great if they could slide or recline. Unfortunately, they only fold in a 60/40 split. However, when everything is folded down, the car truly transforms into a van.
Accessibility to Rear Seats
While the access to the rearmost seats may not be perfect, it is still manageable. Simply drop the seats in the middle and climb over to reach the back. Granted, this may require some dexterity, but once you’re back there, you’ll find that there is plenty of headroom. The floor may feel slightly high, but the overall comfort is still commendable, considering these seats are typically found in occasional rear seating areas.
Is the Load Bay Cover Worth It?
When it comes to keeping your load bay clean and organized, having a cover can make all the difference. However, it’s important to consider whether it’s worth keeping it there, especially if you frequently have passengers. While it can be convenient to have a designated space for the load bay cover, it’s worth noting that it can quickly accumulate dust and become a potential trip hazard. Nonetheless, having a place to store it securely is definitely a plus.
Lack of Air Vents in the Center Seats
One major drawback of this van is the absence of air vents in the center seats and the back. This can become problematic, particularly on hot days when the temperature inside the vehicle rises quickly. This lack of proper ventilation can make the journey uncomfortable for passengers. It’s worth considering this factor if you live in a region with consistently high temperatures.
Functional Dash Design
Despite a few shortcomings, the overall design of the dash is functional and user-friendly. The rounded-off air vents on the exterior echo the signature air bumps, adding a cohesive touch to the interior design. The physical aircon controls below the touchscreen are also a practical addition. For those who opt for the higher spec flare XTR trim, the touchscreen may not be the best in terms of graphics. Other brands like Hyundai and Kia offer better visual displays. The menu layout can also be frustrating, particularly when trying to adjust the screen brightness at night. However, despite these drawbacks, the touchscreen still performs its essential functions, such as navigation, charging search functions for electric cars, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility.
A Comfortable Driving Position
One area where this van excels is the driving position. The seats offer manual lumber adjustment, allowing for a decent level of customization. The seating position is elevated, providing excellent visibility on the road. This factor adds to the overall comfort and ease of driving.
Is the Electric Berlingo the Best Option?
When it comes to choosing the right car, visibility is always an important factor to consider. The electric Berlingo, with its impressive features and capabilities, may be just the vehicle you are looking for. With a 50 kilowatt hour battery and a usable capacity of 46.2 kilowatt hours, this car offers great performance and functionality. Let’s take a closer look at why the electric Berlingo is worth considering.
Fast Charging and Long Battery Life
The electric Berlingo’s battery can be charged in approximately seven and a half hours using a normal seven kilowatt home rule box. For even faster charging, you can plug it into a powerful DC rapid charger. With a 100 kilowatt charging capability, you can get an 80% charge in just 30 minutes. This means less time spent charging and more time on the road.
Impressive Performance
The electric Berlingo offers excellent performance, making it a joy to drive. It can accelerate from naught to 62 miles per hour in just 7.4 seconds. The car also has a strong mid-range punch, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience. While it may not be the most refined electric car, due to some suspension noise, the overall performance and acceleration make up for it.
Practicality and Value
Regardless of whether you choose the electric, petrol, or diesel option, the Berlingo is known for its practicality and value. Its utilitarian design and functionality make it a versatile vehicle for various purposes. While the refinement may not be top-notch, the smooth acceleration and easy throttle contribute to a pleasant driving experience.
In conclusion, the electric Berlingo offers a great combination of performance, functionality, and value. With its fast charging capabilities and long battery life, it is a convenient choice for those looking for an electric vehicle. Despite some lack of refinement, the overall driving experience is enjoyable. Whether you are in need of an electric, petrol, or diesel car, the Berlingo is a practical and reliable option.
Improving Brake Modulation
One area that could be improved upon in electric vehicles is brake modulation. Currently, there is only one option for heavier braking – regenerative braking. While it is easy to drive smoothly with this system, it would be great to see more variation in braking options. However, when it comes to vans, the driving experience may take a backseat to practicality.
Handy Overhead Storage
One feature that I absolutely love about these vans is the overhead storage. It is incredibly useful for storing coats, scarves, gloves, and other items. When living with this van, I found this storage space to be a true asset. It adds to the overall practicality and convenience of the vehicle.
Real-World Range Concerns
For many drivers considering an electric vehicle, the real-world range is a chief concern. This is precisely why Citroen has introduced petrol and diesel options to the Berlingo range. Unfortunately, the range is a weak point for the E Berlingo. In winter, it can drop to less than 100 miles on the motorway. However, in hot weather, the range improves significantly. On a recent drive with the XL model, we achieved a real-world range of 150 miles, even with frequent motorway driving and the air conditioning running all day.
Practicality Over Long Journeys
I firmly believe that many people, especially those with off-road parking, could easily live with the range limitations of the E Berlingo. There is no point in having electric cars with huge batteries if they are only used for one or two long journeys each. The practicality and convenience of these vans are their main selling points, and for everyday use, the range may not be a major concern.
The Citron Berlingo: A Charming and Practical Car
Each year, the need to reduce our impacts on the environment and our resource use becomes more apparent. In this era of sustainable living, finding a car that is both practical and eco-friendly can be a challenge. However, the Citron Berlingo offers a unique solution to this problem. With its charming design, practical features, and great value, the Citron Berlingo is a car that ticks all the right boxes.
Charm and Practicality Combined
The Citron Berlingo has an undeniable charm that sets it apart from other cars in its class. Its quirky, yet practical, design adds a touch of character to your daily commute. Whether you are driving through the city streets or embarking on a long road trip, the Berlingo’s spacious interior and comfortable seating provide a pleasant and enjoyable ride.
A Car Made for Simplicity
One of the key features that make the Citron Berlingo so appealing is its simplicity. Everything about this car has been designed to make your life easier. From the intuitive controls to the ample storage space, the Berlingo ensures that you have everything you need within reach. Whether you are a busy professional or a parent on the go, the Berlingo is a car that simplifies your daily routine.
Space and Value
One of the standout features of the Citron Berlingo is its impressive amount of space. With its versatile seating arrangement and large cargo area, this car can easily accommodate all your belongings, whether it’s a family trip or a shopping spree. Additionally, the Berlingo offers remarkable value for its price. With its competitive pricing and low maintenance costs, this car is a smart investment for those seeking both quality and affordability.
An Eco-Friendly Choice
In today’s world, choosing an eco-friendly car is more important than ever. The Citron Berlingo offers various powertrain options, including electric and hybrid models, making it a friend to the environment. By opting for a Berlingo, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
In conclusion, the Citron Berlingo is a car that embodies charm, practicality, and eco-friendliness. With its spacious interior, intuitive design, and versatility, it is a car that makes everyday life simpler and more enjoyable. Whether you are a city dweller or an adventurer, the Berlingo offers everything you need and more. Don’t forget to head to cargurus.co to discover more about this charming and practical car.
Conclusion
With its practicality, spaciousness, and versatility, this car is truly amazing. Whether you need to transport large items or accommodate extra passengers, this vehicle has got you covered. The clever design and attention to detail, such as the metal backing on the seats, make it a reliable and durable choice. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as the lack of sliding or reclining seats, the overall experience of this car is impressive. Whether you’re a busy family or an individual needing extra room for your belongings, this brilliant car is certainly worth considering.
While the load bay cover may have its drawbacks, it is still a convenient feature for those who prioritize organization and cleanliness. The lack of air vents in the center seats and back can be a significant drawback, particularly in hot climates. However, the functional dash design and comfortable driving position offset some of these negatives. Despite some room for improvement, such as the touchscreen’s graphics and menu layout, the essential features are still present. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preferences and priorities when considering whether this van is the right choice for you.
