SecondHandSense:THERE IS something almost ineffably soft about many French cars, from ride to steering to seats. There is little of the solidity one feels with a German car, when the clunk of the door suggests fine engineering. But the softness, in many cases, is just an impression and many are very well constructed and compare favourably in crash tests.
The feeling did return with a recent re-acquaintance with the Citroën Berlingo MPV – not one of my favourite French cars. But it has two things going for it: it’s cheap as chips and hugely practical. The Berlingo is derived from a commercial van, as are similar cars like the Peugeot Partner (with which it shares a platform) and the Renault Kangoo. None win prizes for looks, but don’t be fooled – cars like the Berlingo can accommodate a family with space to spare, do so quite cheaply and can even be a bit of fun to drive.
The Berlingo has been around since 1998, when someone got the bright idea of selling a van-based car and saving on development costs. What you get is oodles of space, small economical engines and good value. The car drives well but not with exactitude – push it into a corner and it will roll. High sides will unnerve you in crosswinds and you’ll get lots of wind noise.
But load it up for a beach holiday and it will do everything you want. An abundance of cubby holes and storage space, big seats and a high roof make for a comfortable journey.
There is a choice of 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines and a bigger 2-litre diesel. The petrols are fine and the diesel may not be required – it would make more sense in the van – as this is not really a high-mileage option for family motoring.
The car only has a four-star (out of a maximum of five) rating in the EuroNCAP crash test, which many will find off-putting – although the newer 2008 model should prove better. Recalls in 2005 and 2006 saw many cars brought back for problems with suspension and airbags.
A 2006 model with 1.4 petrol engine, multiple airbags, ABS, stability control and 16,000km is just €9,750. A 2007 with the same engine and equipment and 61,000km is €10,950.
STAR RATING:5/10