Famous for its utilitarian past, Citroen’s nod to back-basics motoring might still be Berlingo-shaped but it’s anything but rough and ready. Iain Dooley reports.

presents a more rugged face to the world. The concept is a little like Audi’s Allroad sub brand, what with the bashproof plastic exterior trim and hint of rough terrain abilities. Only being Citroen the experience comes at a significantly more affordable asking price. Space and practicality There’s no shortage of space in a Berlingo – it shares its underpinnings with a van after all. The car’s sliding rear doors are a welcome solution to loading and unloading in tight spaces, while its massive tailgate easily doubles as a shelter when its raining. The cabin’s five-seat layout offers ample space for an active family, and there’s no shortage of oddment storage either. Behind the wheel Don’t buy a Berlingo to be bowled over by its handling prowess as you will be disappointed. Citroen’s take on low cost, lifestyle motoring is not a car for keen drivers. Its strengths lie elsewhere, namely carrying people and their clobber in comfort for not a lot of money. Factor in a gutsy diesel engine and you’re all set for that camping holiday with the family. Value for money In broad terms the Berlingo Multispace easily qualifies This car summed up in just a single word: for ‘budget’ status, although this more upmarket XTR version will cost you a little more money. The trade-off is a SUV-like rugged exterior and improved all-weather traction from its clever stability control system – remember, this is still a front-wheel drive car. Opting for a diesel variant if you plan on racking up the miles will be a smart move, Price: £18,540 Engine: 1.6-litre diesel unit producing 120bhp Transmission: sixspeed manual transmission driving the front wheels Performance: Top speed 109mph, 0-62mph in 11.4 seconds Economy: 64.2mpg combined Emissions:115g/km of CO2