Valuations

Despite its age, the Berlingo is still a popular choice in the used car market – both Jeremy Clarkson’s influence and the fact it is known to be simple and inexpensive to maintain mean that it’s a popular choice for family car buyers on a budget, as well as those looking for a vehicle that will double up as a works van.

There’s also demand from people looking for a car entirely for leisure purposes – we know of two Berlingo Multispace owners that bought one specifically for this purpose; the first because the load bay will swallow a whole hot air balloon, including its basket, and the second a young couple that use it specifically to carry their mountain bikes.

That means that the cheaper end of the market is usually full of dross. Even so, there are viable cars available for between £500 and £1000; you just need to shop carefully and not be too choosy about minor cosmetic defects such as dented panels or worn interior trim. The vast majority of good Berlingos are available between

£1250 and £2000 – there’s plenty of choice here and you’ll most likely find a good one. £1500 should get you a facelift 03-plate with around 100,000 miles on the clock. Spend a bit less and go for an XUD and you’ll arguably get a better, albeit fundamentally more basic, car. With petrol models, it’s worth noting that pre-2001 models are cheaper to tax as well, as they don’t use the Co2-based taxation system – £50 per year less for the 1.8 and £38 for the 1.4.

Top book for an 07- or 08-plate example is about £3000. If you’re spending that much, you want one with a tidy cabin and sensible mileage, as well as a recent cambelt change.

They’re not massively expensive, but used Berlingos are in demand, which means you can’t dawdle over a purchase. If a car looks and feels right, buy it.