The Essentials

• Price from £12,795
• What Car? says:
• Fuel economy: up to 58.9mpg
• What is it? There's no disguising the Berlingo's van origins, but if you're prioritising practicality and value for money, the Multispace is worth a look.

• Drive

  Despite its van origins, the ride is composed and comfortable, with quiet, strong diesel engines

• Inside

  Perch-like driving position with plenty of adjustment and a neat, easy-to-use dash layout

• Safety

  Only two airbags are fitted as standard and basic models are sparsely equipped so we'd recommend upgrading

• Reliability

  The Berlingo feels built to withstand family life, but there's no sense of scrimping on quality. Citroen's recent reliability record is fairly average, though

• Space

  Room for three children in child seats across the back and masses of storage space for their (ok, and your) clutter

• Standard and extras

  Entry-level models are pretty basic, but the options list offers various packs of extra kit

• What's it like to drive?

  Yes it looks like a van, but the Berlingo is very well mannered on the road. Despite it's tall body, the car doesn't wallow around corners, and the suspension absorbs most bumps on the road. The engines are quiet and its boxy shape doesn't kick up too much wind noise. If you do plan to carry regular loads of people or cargo it's worth going for at least the 89bhp diesel engine, as the petrol engine simply isn't as gutsy.

• What's it like inside?

  You 'sit up and beg' in the Berlingo, but it's a good position to be in, with excellent all round visibility and easy-to-reach controls. Go for a version with three individual rear seats and you might be able to safely carry three children in child seats in the back - a rare bonus in a five-seat car. The sliding rear doors are brilliant in car parks or for helping granny in and out. There are lots of cubbyholes around the cabin, and the boot would double as a spare room if required. Forgotten your brolly? Simply lift the huge tailgate and you could enjoy a family barbecue in the shelter beneath. If you need to carry more people, a seven-seat version is available.

• How reliable is it?

  The Berlingo feels built to withstand family life, but owners rated it only 'average' for mechanical reliability in the latest JD Power survey. Only two airbags are fitted as standard in the Berlingo, which feels a little mean. It scored a respectable four stars for both adult and child protection in its latest Euro NCAP crash test. Isofix child seat points are fitted to the two outer rear seats.

• Should I buy one?

  For sheer space per pound the Berlingo looks great value. However, don't be tempted into buying the cheapest model, as this comes very poorly equipped for both goodies and safety kit, and won't be so attractive to resell.