The Citroen Berlingo Multispace has probably done more than any other vehicle to establish the van-based budget MPV sector in the UK. In its original iteration, the Multispace was a fun and functional cheapie that did little to disguise its commercial roots. The current version is a good deal more sophisticated, especially when fitted with the smooth 16-valve 1.6-litre petrol engine. This is a vehicle that was initially viewed as something of a frivolity but which is now taken very seriously indeed by industry analysts. The Berlingo Multispace is big business and it's easy to see why.

With 110bhp on tap, this Berlingo Multispace is respectably quick off the mark, zipping to 60mph in 11 seconds and on to a top speed of 107mph. This is largely due to the fact that the engine is hauling around a lightweight body encapsulating a good deal of fresh air. You'll certainly be able to take other drivers by surprise with the Berlingo's verve. A corollary of the light weight is good fuel economy, the 1.6-litre powerplant turning in an average of 38.2mpg. Emissions are also competitive for a vehicle of this size, the 175g/km of carbon dioxide making the 16v cleaner than its little brother the 1.4-litre Multispace.

The latest Berlingo Multispace models are priced even more aggressively than ever, the 1.6i 16v pitched at £11,110 for Forte trim and £11,620 for the plusher Desire. With sales greater than the Renault Kangoo and the Peugeot Partner Combi combined, the Berlingo is by far the dominant player in this rapidly growing market sector. Although the 1.6-litre petrol version is increasingly overshadowed by its 1.6-litre HDi diesel sibling when it comes to sales, it is still the best choice if you want an inexpensive family carry-all that's enjoyably light on its toes.

"This 1.6-litre version is still the best choice if you want an inexpensive family carry-all that's enjoyably light on its toes"

The current models can be picked out from previous generations by way of the translucent central section in their rear light clusters, their revised side indicators, the body-coloured number plate mouldings and their thicker side rubbing strips. Clear-lensed headlamps meanwhile, bring a touch of Tiffany jewellery to the front of a car that many would consider more Elizabeth Duke at Argos. But that would be to sell the Berlingo Multispace well short. Yes, it is cheap and cheerful, but it's also a car that ruthlessly targets a specific market. It's a market that values rugged, inexpensive family transport. It's also a market that has developed to demand more than a bread van with windows. And sure enough, the Berlingo Multispace has developed to meet such demands.

The dashboard features a centrally-mounted display screen, a steering wheel with stereo controls and a number of stowage areas. A Comfort Pack option offers aircraft-style trays on the back of the front seats, front folding armrests and Citroen's Modubox system in the boot. Priced at an almost laughable £60, this is one box well worth ticking when specifying your Berlingo.

Although the Berlingo still represents an inexpensive way of transporting a growing family, it's no longer the basic 2CV successor many once reckoned it to be. After all, how many 2CVs were fitted with digital multiplex wiring that allows a 'guide me home' function on the headlights or progressive dimming cabin lights? The sophisticated electronics also make the fitting of functions such as a key fob operated 'location' facility, automatic door locking and speed sensitive stereo volume simplicity itself. Safety is fairly impressive too, with the current car incorporating a reinforced body structure for improved impact resistance. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, twin front airbags, side lateral airbags and three three-point seat belts in the back.

The most notable feature of this model is still its vast folding roof. Yes, it is an option but most take it up. In this case, it's electrically operated and retracts to give an aperture of some 20-square feet - almost four times as big as a standard sunroof. Should it start to rain, the roof takes only around 12 seconds to close, at which point, if you're in the middle of a picnic, you can take shelter beneath the raised tailgate. At over 4ft wide, this doubles up as a large umbrella and raises high enough for party of six footers to stand beneath it. The other option that can be fitted instead of the sunroof is Citroen's Modutop system, a set of aircraft style overhead lockers that greatly adds to the amount of usable carrying space available.

The Citroen Berlingo Multispace is the main reason the van-based MPV sector is one of the hottest tickets around. It's finding plenty of favour among those buyers wanting a serious amount of space with a comedy price tag. Some may suggest that with its modern face and sophisticated functions, the Berlingo has matured a little. That may be the case but, make no mistake, it's an undeniably better car than before.

Better car, perhaps, but does the 16v Multispace justify its existence alongside the excellent 1.6HDi versions? It's a tough call. Taken in isolation, the petrol car is a real achievement, but when placed in context it would be difficult to ignore the lower running costs and relaxed nature of the diesel version. If you're still a little suspicious of the diesel revolution, you won't be disappointed by the Multispace 1.6 16v.

TOP 2 BERLINGO MULTISPACE DEALS

The results below show the top BERLINGO MULTISPACE deals on buyacar

	Citroen Berlingo Multispace 1.6i 16V Forte 5dr People Carrier
	ETR	Mthly £169	Saving £2,119	Price £9,321
	Citroen Berlingo Multispace 1.6i 16V Desire 5dr People Carrier
	ETR	Mthly £174	Saving £2,213	Price £9,637

typical 11.45% APR

PCP finance quote over 48 months,  10,000 miles pa,  deposit of £1000