Four engines are available, starting with a 75bhp 1.4-litre petrol which is capable of keeping up with family hatchbacks, and moving up to a peppy 16v 1.6-litre. The refined 92bhp 1.6 turbodiesel pulls strongly, but the 75bhp 1.6-litre diesel can feel sluggish.

The Berlingo Multispace doesn’t handle like the builder’s transport it resembles. It’s sure-footed and entertaining, but as you might expect, the tall body tends to lean a little in corners. Progress is made easier by power steering and excellent all-round visibility.

All three engines are reasonably smooth and refined, although the petrol models need working fairly hard when you want to overtake and the diesels are noisy when extended. Some wind noise disturbs the peace at higher speeds, particularly if the full-length electric sunroof has been fitted.

The Berlingo does everything compact MPVs like the Renault Scénic can do, but at a much lower price – and Citroën dealers are usually willing to offer good discounts. Even so, you can expect decent resale values, too. Fuel economy is good, particularly if you choose either of the diesels, while insurance costs are reasonable.

The Berlingo is well put together and mechanically tough, although the interior plastics look rather cheap. Past owners are likely to have made quite hard use of the car, so if you are looking at a used example, check for damage in the load area. Make sure the clutch and gears operate smoothly.

Safety equipment is on the mean side, comprising a driver’s airbag. However, the reasonably priced Safety Pack adds a passenger airbag, two side ’bags and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution. The three rear passengers get a trio of three-point seatbelts. For security, the Berlingo has optional deadlocks, but no alarm.

Large front doors make access easy to the Berlingo’s basic but smart cabin, and most instruments and controls are arranged in a logical manner. The steering wheel adjusts for height only, so drivers may have to choose between cramped legs or straight arms. The resulting rather upright driving position takes some getting used to, but is reasonably comfortable.

The Berlingo is versatile, tough and fun. Even with five adults seated in the roomy cabin, the rear load area is huge. Big door pockets, nets and tie-down hooks take care of oddments around the cabin. The optional Modutop adds aeroplane-style overhead lockers, or you can have a giant sunroof.

The list of standard equipment is rather basic, although all models get power steering, electric front windows and an electric passenger’s door mirror. Desire trim adds a CD player. Options include air-conditioning, an electric sunroof and metallic paint, while buyers can also choose Citroën’s fold-away wheeled trolley, the Modubox.