This document presents an academic overview derived from the Wikipedia article on the Citroën Berlingo. Access the source material here. (opens in new tab)

The Citroën Berlingo: A Multifaceted Analysis

Exploring the evolution, engineering, and market impact of a pioneering leisure activity vehicle (LAV) and light commercial vehicle (LCV).

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Vehicle Overview

Vehicle Identity

The Citroën Berlingo, alongside its sibling the Peugeot Partner, represents a significant segment of the light commercial and multi-purpose vehicle market. Initially conceived by the PSA Group, these vehicles have transitioned under the Stellantis conglomerate, expanding their reach and platform sharing with other marques like Opel, Vauxhall, Toyota, and Fiat.

Conceptual Origins

Conceptually, the Berlingo/Partner lineage can be traced to the practical utility of earlier Citroën vehicles, such as the 2CV panel van. Their design prioritizes functional, box-like cargo space combined with aerodynamic front-end styling, establishing a benchmark for versatile vehicle design.

Market Presence

Produced globally across multiple continents, the Berlingo and its associated variants have achieved substantial market penetration. Their adaptability extends to various powertrain options, including internal combustion engines (petrol and diesel), compressed natural gas (CNG), and fully electric configurations.

Generational Evolution

First Generation (M49; 1996–2008)

Launched in July 1996, the initial generation established the Berlingo/Partner's core identity. It was based on the floorpan and mechanicals of the Citroën ZX and Peugeot 306 estate. This generation saw various concept studies, including the Berlingo Grand Large, which evolved into the passenger-oriented Multispace and Combi variants.

Key features included a choice of petrol and diesel engines, with electric versions appearing later. Production continued in Argentina long after its European discontinuation. A facelift in 2002 (M59) introduced updated styling and interior elements.

Production Timeline:

  • Original versions: 1996–2008
  • "Berlingo First" / "Partner Origin": 2008–2013
  • Argentina production: 1998–present (with updates)

Second Generation (B9; 2008–2018)

The second generation, styled under Gilles Vidal, utilized the PSA PF2 platform, shared with the Citroën C4. This resulted in a slightly larger and more premium offering compared to its predecessor. It was available as both panel vans and passenger variants (Multispace).

Offered with updated petrol (1.6L TU5) and diesel (1.6L DV6 HDi) engines. An electric version, utilizing Mitsubishi i-MiEV technology, was introduced in 2013. A facelift occurred around 2012, refining the front-end design.

Platform: PSA PF2

Third Generation (K9; 2018–Present)

The current generation debuted in 2018, built on the PSA EMP2 platform. This generation marked a significant diversification, with the introduction of the Peugeot Rifter and the adoption by Opel/Vauxhall as the Combo. Toyota also joined the collaboration, marketing it as the ProAce City, and Fiat introduced it as the Doblò III.

Available in standard and long wheelbase versions, with petrol (1.2L PureTech Turbo I3) and diesel (1.5L BlueHDi I4) engines. Electric variants (e-Berlingo, e-Rifter, Combo-e, ProAce City Electric, e-Doblò) are prominent. A significant facelift was introduced in late 2023, incorporating updated technology and styling.

Platform: PSA EMP2

Related Models: Peugeot Rifter, Opel/Vauxhall Combo E, Toyota ProAce City, Fiat Doblò III.

Powertrain Specifications

Internal Combustion Engines

Across its generations, the Berlingo/Partner family has utilized a range of efficient four-cylinder engines from PSA's portfolio, including the TU and DV series.

Engine Type Displacement Power Output Torque
1.4L TU3 Petrol1360 cc75 PS (55 kW)121 N⋅m
1.6L DV6 HDi Diesel1560 cc75-92 PS (55-68 kW)169-216 N⋅m
1.6L TU5 Petrol1587 cc107 PS (79 kW)147 N⋅m
1.8L XU7 Petrol1761 cc89 PS (65 kW)147 N⋅m
1.9L XUD Diesel1905 cc70 PS (51 kW)120 N⋅m
1.9L DW8 Diesel1868 cc70 PS (51 kW)127 N⋅m
2.0L DW10 HDi Diesel1997 cc89 PS (65 kW)205 N⋅m
1.2L PureTech Turbo Petrol (K9)1199 cc110-130 PS (81-96 kW)205-250 N⋅m
1.5L BlueHDi Diesel (K9)1499 cc100-130 PS (74-96 kW)250-300 N⋅m

Electric Variants

Electrified versions have been available since the first generation. Modern iterations, particularly from the third generation onwards, feature advanced lithium-ion battery technology and dedicated electric powertrains.

First Generation Electric:

  • Motor: 28 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
  • Battery: 162 V Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd)

Third Generation Electric (e-Berlingo, etc.):

  • Motor: 136 PS (100 kW) Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
  • Battery: 50/52 kWh Lithium-ion
  • Range: Up to 330 km (WLTP)

Diverse Variants

Commercial Focus

The core design emphasizes practicality for commercial use, offering spacious, configurable cargo areas in panel van configurations. Various payload capacities (e.g., 950 kg, 1000 kg) cater to different business needs.

Passenger Variants

Passenger versions, known variously as Multispace, Combi, Tepee, Rifter, Combo Life, and ProAce City Verso, provide flexible seating arrangements and amenities for families and leisure activities. Options often include standard and long wheelbase variants.

Special Editions

Notable special editions include the retro-styled Caselani Fourgonnette, inspired by the Citroën 2CV Fourgonnette, produced in limited numbers. Various "off-road" or "adventure" themed trims (e.g., Patagónica, XTR, Mountain Vibe) have also been offered to enhance aesthetic appeal and capability.

Market Performance

Production & Sales Data

The Berlingo and Partner have consistently been strong sellers for the PSA Group and now Stellantis. Production figures demonstrate significant global output across multiple generations and manufacturing sites.

Year Worldwide Production (Berlingo) Worldwide Production (Partner) Worldwide Sales (Berlingo) Worldwide Sales (Partner)
2008TBATBATBA147,600
2009TBA120,500TBA133,300
2010TBA164,600TBA160,200
2011164,162167,368165,807165,240
2012136,800142,300139,800149,800

Note: Data reflects available figures and may not encompass all global markets or variants.

Market Impact

The Berlingo and Partner pioneered the "leisure activity vehicle" segment, offering a practical alternative to traditional hatchbacks and MPVs. Their success influenced competitors and solidified the market for versatile, family-oriented utility vehicles.

Historical Context

Key Milestones

The development and production of the Berlingo and Partner have spanned over two decades, involving significant engineering advancements and strategic partnerships.

  • 1996: Launch of the first generation Berlingo and Partner.
  • 2002: First facelift (M59) for the initial generation.
  • 2008: Introduction of the second generation (B9) on the PF2 platform.
  • 2010: Argentina receives updated first-generation models.
  • 2013: Electric variants introduced, based on Mitsubishi technology.
  • 2018: Launch of the third generation (K9) on the EMP2 platform, alongside the Peugeot Rifter.
  • 2019: Toyota ProAce City variant introduced.
  • 2021: Stellantis confirms electrification strategy, phasing out ICE passenger variants in Europe.
  • 2022: Fiat Doblò III variant launched.
  • 2023: Third generation receives a significant facelift.

Strategic Alliances

The evolution of the Berlingo platform highlights strategic collaborations, notably the partnership with Toyota for commercial vehicle development, extending the platform's reach and efficiency under different brand identities.

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References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Citroën Berlingo Wikipedia page

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Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This document has been generated by an AI model for educational and informational purposes, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source, it does not constitute professional automotive consultation or endorsement.

This is not automotive advice. Information regarding specifications, features, and market availability may be subject to change and may not reflect the most current data. Users should consult official manufacturer documentation and qualified professionals for specific automotive decisions.

The creators of this content are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.