Berlingo all set to hit the rough stuff

Here’s an MPV with attitude! This is Citroen’s rugged Berlingo Multi­space XTR.

We’ve already brought you pictures of the standard car, which will be launched at Geneva this week, but this model has a more adventurous look.

The only mechanical change is the increased ride height, which will be useful over rough road surfaces. Cosmetically, the XTR gains a bold two-tone bumper and grille, black plastic bodykit and chunky rubbing strips along its flanks.

Inside, the new Berlingo has a roomier interior than its predecessor. The sense of space is helped by using as much glass as possible, including a panoramic sunroof. Among the innovative stowage solutions are aircraft-style overhead compartments, which are big enough to allow long items such as skis to be loaded up. A removable central storage cubby and an opening tailgate window – which lets you drop your shopping straight in – boosts practicality even further.

In true MPV style, versatile seat combinations make the most of the space available. There are three separately folding or removable rear chairs, and even the front passenger seat can be taken out, creating a maximum space of 3,000 litres.

Three diesel and two petrol engines will be available when the car goes on sale in the UK in summer. These include a 110bhp 1.6-litre HDi oil-burner fitted with a particulate filter to keep emissions to a minimum. Prices are yet to be announced, but a small premium over the outgoing model is likely.