Used Citroën Berlingo Multispace 1999 - 2002 review

It's a versatile car that drives surprisingly well. Naturally, that tall body leans a little in corners, but the power steering and excellent visibility make for an easy drive.

Five adults will have no trouble getting on board thanks to the big front doors and rear sliding doors, however they may find the seats aren't particularly supportive, and there's no height adjustment on the driver's seat.

Those five can bring their holiday luggage, too, and the Berlingo will cope admirably with surfboards, dogs or furniture. There are big door pockets, nets and hooks to help secure the load, and an optional trolley to help you transport it.

The petrol-engined models need working very hard if you're overtaking with a load on board, and the 1.9-litre diesel is noisy at high revs. And, avoid models with a full-length sunroof, as that will kick up some noise, too.

Citroen is renowned for offering generous discounts on its new, and that keeps values of its models low on the used market, so if you're looking for a cheaper alternative to an MPV it makes a lot of sense.

Fuel bills depend on your choice of engine - the 1.6 petrol, for example, will manage less than 40mpg on average, but the thirstiest is the 1.4 at 37.7mpg. Best of all is the 2.0-litre diesel, which achieves just under 50mpg.

Insurance groups start at 4 for the 1.4 petrol, but none are higher than group 5. However, servicing costs on a Berlingo tend to be slightly higher than for close rival the Renault Kangoo.

Data from warranty provider Warranty Direct indicates that Citroen repair costs are among the lowest on average for cars more than three years old, although around half of all the Citroens on their books needed attention.

A face-lift in 2002 updated the Berlingo's looks and improved equipment levels. But, on these models, equipment levels are low, and you'll need to hunt for a model with ABS brakes and a passenger airbag, which were part of an optional safety pack when the car was new.

Engine choices include 1.4-, 1.6- or 1.8-litre petrols, and 1.9- and 2.0-litre diesels. The 1.4 petrol can feel underpowered, so the 1.6 is a better bet, especially as the 1.8-litre unit was discontinued in March 2001, making it tricky to find. If you want a diesel, avoid the noisy 1.9, and track down a 2.0-litre model instead. Standard Forte trim includes remote central locking, a driver's airbag, electric front windows and a radio cassette player. Air-conditioning has always been optional, but it's a very worthwhile option to track down.

Later models also come in XTR trim, which adds aluminium roof rails. If practicality is a priority, (and, why else would you buy a Berlingo?), try to find a model with some of the clever storage solutions, such as huge overhead lockers, which were optional when the car was new.