CITROËN BERLINGO: 30 YEARS OF SUPPORTING ACTIVE LIFE AND A SPECIAL EDITION TO MARK THE OCCASION

• Citroën is celebrating 30 years of the Berlingo, a true brand within the brand, launched in 1996.
• Three decades of loyalty and three promises with a common thread for both business owners and individuals: versatility, practicality and ease of use in everyday life.
• Useful and ingenious, the commercial version is the worthy successor to the 2CV van or C15. Its clever design makes it the partner that adapts to the needs of all professionals.
• As the pioneer of the leisure activity vehicle segment, it is the ideal companion to make life easier for everyone with a busy lifestyle.
• To celebrate its 30th anniversary, Citroën is launching the Berlingo 30 years special edition, available in its leisure activity version from 1 June.

On a weekday morning, a craftsman loads his tools into the back of his vehicle, a delivery driver drops off a parcel. Further on, a family is getting ready for an impromptu trip, whilst a cyclist loads his bike. Bags are loaded, boxes are stacked, lives are organized. In these simple moments, there is one thing in common: the Berlingo.

Poissy, June 1^st, 2026 – In July 1996, Citroën launched a groundbreaking vehicle: the Berlingo. It reinvented the utility van with a single-cab design and broke new ground by creating a versatile, spacious option for private customers: the leisure activity vehicle. Citroën thus offered the ideal model designed to support active lifestyles, suited to professionals, families, tradespeople, active seniors and outdoor enthusiasts.

Thirty years on, this bold gamble has become a proven success. With over 4.2 million units produced worldwide and sold in nearly 90 countries, Berlingo has established itself as a faithful companion, spanning generations without ever losing sight of the essentials: being useful, ingenious and deeply human. Both a work tool and an everyday partner, for three decades it has embodied a unique vision of mobility: one that adapts to real-world uses, without compromise.

To celebrate this anniversary, Citroën is unveiling the Berlingo 30 years, a special anniversary edition of the people carrier, based on the Plus trim level. An edition designed as a tribute to all those who, for thirty years, have chosen Berlingo out of conviction to champion a different vision of the car. The Berlingo 30 years is available to order from today.

Chapter 1: The Anniversary

An intuition that became the benchmark

When Citroën launched the Berlingo commercial vehicle in 1996, the market discovered a new architecture and a completely fresh approach to the compact commercial vehicle. With its 3 m³ of load volume, a payload of up to 800 kg and, above all, a level of comfort inspired by that of a saloon car, the Berlingo transformed the relationship between professionals and their work tools.

A few months later, at the Paris Motor Show, Citroën unveiled several concepts (Berlingo Coupé de Plage, Berlingo Bulle and Berlingo Grand Large) foreshadowing an even bolder evolution. In January 1997, the Berlingo Multispace was launched. With it came a completely new kind of vehicle: compact on the outside, incredibly spacious on the inside, versatile, bright, accessible and designed to cater for all everyday needs. The leisure activity vehicle segment was born, a segment of which it became the face and the benchmark. And the model became a brand within the brand.

Very quickly, the Berlingo established itself as a vehicle in a class of its own on the European motoring scene. Its success is based on a fundamental idea: versatility is not a compromise, but freedom. The freedom to transport goods, to travel, to DIY, to go away for the weekend, to load up bikes, to move furniture, or to turn a simple daily journey into a comfortable experience. For thirty years, this philosophy has never stopped evolving. From generation to generation, it has continued to progress, incorporating technological innovations and new standards of comfort, whilst retaining that obvious practicality that sets it apart.

Berlingo 30 years: a special edition to celebrate a unique model.

To celebrate thirty years of loyalty and devotion, Citroën is launching the Berlingo 30 years, a special anniversary series available exclusively as a leisure activity vehicle, in the M and XL body styles. Positioned between the Plus and Max trim levels, this special edition brings together the features most appreciated by Berlingo customers in a configuration that is generous, elegant and deeply faithful to the spirit of the model.

This special edition is marked by a ‘30’ badge affixed to the front pillar. A simple yet meaningful symbol. It represents thirty years of daily commutes, impromptu holidays, building sites, house moves, early morning departures and late-night returns. Thirty years during which Berlingo has established itself as a faithful partner in real life.

Inside, this special edition notably features Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats with three individual seats in the second row, a configuration exclusive to this edition. The Berlingo 30 years also comes with:

• a 10-inch HD screen;
• a 10-inch digital instrument cluster;
• a rear-view camera with Top Rear Vision;
• a heated leather steering wheel;
• electrically folding wing mirrors;
• 16-inch black ‘Chaves’ alloy wheels;
• tinted windows.

The Berlingo 30 years will be available in Kaolin White, Kiama Blue, Steel Grey and Perla Nera Black, as well as a full range of engines, combining versatility and modernity. Customers will be able to opt for the 110 hp petrol engine paired with a manual gearbox, or choose one of the two diesel variants: 100 hp with a manual gearbox or 130 hp with an automatic gearbox. Finally, this version is also available on the 136 hp electric model, equipped with a 54 kWh battery and an automatic transmission.

PRICES:

M Petrol 110 hp Manual – 5-seater: €27,800 incl. VAT

M Diesel 100 hp Manual – 5-seater: €28,400 incl. VAT

M Diesel 130 hp Automatic – 5-seater: €31,300 incl. VAT

M ë-Berlingo Electric 136 hp Automatic 54 kWh – 5-seater: €38,700 incl. VAT

XL Diesel 130 hp Automatic – 5-seater (7-seater optional): €32,100 incl. VAT

XL ë-Berlingo Electric 136 hp Automatic 54 kWh – 5-seater (7-seater optional): €39,500 incl. VAT

Chapter 2: The Berlingo Saga

1950 – CITROËN 2 CV VAN

It was in fact in this year that the iconic 2CV was unveiled in a van version. The small, compact front-wheel-drive van made its debut with all the advantages of a practical and economical model that would go on to become one of the greatest successes of the 20th century in its category. This model will go down in history as the first mass-produced front-wheel-drive van.

Right from the brand’s inception in the early 1920s, André Citroën had recognized the value of offering a wide range of vehicles, from hard-core commercial vehicles to luxury saloons, and the second half of the 20th century was no exception to this rule – quite the contrary. Produced from March 1951 to March 1978, with 1,246,335 units assembled, it has become a cult model, now collected all over the world. It must be said that as soon as it was launched, equipment manufacturers seized upon it. And from the mid-1950s onwards, various suppliers offered accessories to transform 2CV Van into a true forerunner of the leisure activity vehicle. The Citroën factory in Forest, Belgium, even launched a production version dubbed the ‘Week-end’. It is quite simply the forerunner of Berlingo!

1978 – CITROËN ACADIANE

In 1978, Acadiane replaced 2CV Fourgonnette. It was, in fact, nothing more and nothing less than its predecessor restyled with a Dyane front end. It was produced for nine years and was the first to offer an LPG version shortly before production ended in 1987. A total of 253,393 units were assembled. It is worth noting that a ‘Mixta’ version was produced for the Benelux market to succeed the ‘Week-end’ based on 2CV, and that an ‘Oasis’ version was offered for the Italian market – practically a camper van!

1984 – CITROËN C15

Following the small two-cylinder engines of 2CV and then Acadiane, the all-new model launched in 1984: C15 featured a water-cooled four-cylinder engine. Derived from Visa, which debuted in 1978, this model enjoyed a very long production run and was manufactured until 2006 – ten years after the launch of the Berlingo! Its reputation for durability and reliability made it a true star in its segment, but it was also the availability of a diesel engine that boosted its sales. With 1,235,042 units produced over 22 years, it came close to matching the sales figures of 2CV van, which were achieved over 37 years.

It was also C15 that served as the testing ground for electric technology, with a first prototype unveiled in July 1987, followed by a production version available from October 1990. Around sixty units of this pioneering version were built. Meanwhile, Dangel offered all-wheel-drive versions between 1991 and 1993. In September 1991, C15 ‘Familiale ’ with its rear bench seat already foreshadowed the versatile use of the future Berlingo. C15 was also available from 1996 with a dual-fuel CNG system. LPG was available as an option.

1996 – CITROËN BERLINGO 1st generation

Finally, a revolution at the end of the 20th century: the first generation of the Berlingo, launched in July 1996, once again broke the mold and offered a host of innovations. Halfway between a sedan and an MPV, this new Citroën was multi-faceted, and a version designed for family and leisure use, aptly named the Multispace, proved an instant commercial success for those seeking a model more spacious and versatile than a sedan, yet smaller than an MPV. This marked the emergence of a new market segment: the leisure activity vehicle. Its main originality lay in the fact that, for the first time, this model was not derived from a sedan but was a genuine new creation. Its launch in 1996 gave rise to original variants such as Berlingo Grand Large, the Plage concept car and Berlingo Bulle, which was not without a certain resemblance to a certain... 2CV!

In 1997, in the spirit of the Citroën 2CV rallies of the early 1970s, Citroën organized a Paris-Samarkand-Moscow rally in which 198 young Europeans undertook this adventure in Berlingos.

As was the case with C 15, the Berlingo diversified: CNG, LPG, Electric... In 1999, at the Geneva Motor Show, the experimental Berlingo Dynavolt was a low-emission model combining an electric motor and a combustion engine running on LPG.

In 2000, the Berlingo was fitted with Modutop®, a clever storage system that maximizes usable space in the cabin, and in 2002, the Berlingo underwent a major facelift, including the front end and dashboard.

In 2003, the XTR version introduced an ‘all-terrain’ variant.

2008 – CITROËN BERLINGO 2nd generation

In May 2008, the second-generation Berlingo was launched, offering further new features such as three independent rear seats, a rear window that opens and a new Modutop®, for example.

A Grip Control version with all-weather traction control was introduced in 2009. An electric Berlingo was launched in 2013.

In spring 2015, at the Geneva Motor Show, the Berlingo got a makeover. A few days before its production version was unveiled, it was revealed as the “Mountain Vibe Concept”, brimming with optimism and energy, fitted with body reinforcements and accessories designed to explore nature, navigate the terrain and reach every summit.

The following year, in 2016, to mark the simultaneous anniversaries of 2CV Fourgonnette, which was celebrating its 65th anniversary, and Berlingo, which was celebrating its 20th, Citroën created two unique models for the Colette boutique: 2CV Fourgonnette Colette and Berlingo Colette, which became true collector’s items from the moment they were created!

In March 2017, after more than 2.9 million units had been assembled since the launch of the first generation in 1996, the Berlingo range expanded further with the introduction of Berlingo Multispace as the E-Berlingo Multispace, an electric version complementing Citroën’s range comprising the C-Zero, E-MEHARI and the Berlingo Electric in a commercial vehicle version.

2018 – CITROËN BERLINGO 3rd generation

In 2018, the latest generation of the Berlingo was launched, set to evolve in March 2024 to incorporate the latest technologies and the brand’s new identity. This is today’s Berlingo.

Chapter 3: The Berlingo Today

Berlingo, the partner for families and leisure

Since its inception, Berlingo has kept pace with changes in society and lifestyles. Blended families, outdoor leisure activities, suburban mobility or the search for a single vehicle capable of doing it all: generation after generation, the Berlingo has adapted with remarkable practical intelligence.

The model’s success is based on its ability to combine space, versatility, comfort, robustness and affordability. From the very first generations, Citroën introduced innovations that have become iconic: three independent rear seats, the opening rear window and the Modutop® multifunctional roof, a true hallmark of the model offering up to 100 liters of additional storage.

Today, Citroën Berlingo continues this evolution by further enhancing its modern, technological and prestigious character. Available in two sizes, M (4.40 m) and XL (4.75 m), with 5 or 7 seats, it precisely meets the needs of families and users with varied lifestyles. Thanks to its ingenious architecture, Berlingo offers exceptional interior space whilst maintaining a compact footprint. When the rear seats and front passenger seat are folded down, the load length reaches up to 3.50 m in the M version and 4.0 m in the XL version, allowing sports equipment, furniture or bulky items to be transported with ease.

Inside, Citroën further enhances the sense of well-being with the introduction of the new Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats. Their specific design, high-density foam and lateral support ensure a high level of comfort, designed for both long journeys and everyday use. The driving experience is also enhanced by a new dashboard featuring a 10-inch HD touchscreen inspired by the world of smartphones. The connected 3D navigation system, natural voice recognition and connectivity technologies transform the Berlingo into a true digital living space.

Berlingo also stands out for its extensive range of technology designed to enhance comfort and safety:

• Techno Pack with keyless entry and start, wireless charger, 230V socket and Grip Control with Hill Descent Assist;
• Connect Pack with adaptive cruise control, Stop & Go function, active lane keeping and blind spot monitoring;
• Reversing camera with Top Rear Vision projected onto the high-definition central screen;

Designed to make everyday life easier, Berlingo remains true to the model’s historic signature: “We didn’t invent the family, but we did invent the car that goes with it”.

Berlingo Van: the ideal work tool that adapts to all needs

From 2CV van to C15, Citroën has always maintained a close relationship with professionals. With Berlingo Van, this story enters a new dimension. A benchmark in the compact van market for three generations, the Berlingo Van has constantly evolved to support tradespeople, retailers, delivery drivers and businesses in their daily lives. Its success stems from a simple conviction: a commercial vehicle must be as practical as it is enjoyable to drive.

Berlingo Van now adopts Citroën’s new design identity with a completely redesigned front end, which is more vertical and expressive. Its more assertive look emphasizes both its robust and its dynamism. The interior has undergone a major upgrade with a new, more ergonomic dashboard, incorporating a 10-inch HD touchscreen and new steering wheel controls. The whole design has been conceived to simplify the daily lives of professionals and enhance their driving comfort.

For the first time, Berlingo Van also features Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats, developed specifically to meet the needs of users who spend long hours in their vehicle. Berlingo Van also stands out for its high level of on-board technology:

• Dynamic Surround Vision with a digital rear-view mirror;
• 12 parking sensors;
• Highway Driver Assist combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist;
• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection;
• Traffic sign recognition and driver fatigue alert.

Available in 2- or 3-seater versions, Berlingo Van offers up to 4.4 m³ of load volume, 3.09 m (M) and 3,44 m (XL) in usable length with the Extenso cab and a payload of up to 1 ton in the petrol or diesel version. To meet all business needs, Citroën also offers packs tailored to specific activities. The Premium Connect Pack includes 10-inch touchscreen navigation, advanced driver-assistance systems and an HD digital rear-view mirror. The Construction Site Pack adds underbody protection, increased ground clearance and reinforced tires to support professionals on all terrains.

The choice of power

Long before electrification became the norm in the automotive industry, Citroën was already experimenting with practical and pragmatic electric mobility. As early as 1997, the first electric Berlingo was unveiled at the European Electric Vehicle Conference in La Rochelle, boasting a range of 95 kilometers.

Today, this vision continues with the ë-Berlingo and the ë-Berlingo Van. Their philosophy remains true to that of the original model: to offer electric mobility without compromising on space, modularity or load capacity. The ë-Berlingo passenger version delivers 100 kW (136 hp) and features a new 50 kWh LFP battery, enabling a WLTP range of up to 340 km. Thanks to significant work on efficiency, this range has increased by more than 20% compared to the previous generation. Fast charging allows the battery to be recharged to 80% in just 30 minutes at a 100 kW public charging point, whilst an optional heat pump optimizes energy consumption in winter.

For its part, the ë-Berlingo Van offers up to 330 km of WLTP range whilst retaining its load-carrying capacity and modularity. A solution perfectly suited to professionals operating in urban and suburban areas.

Alongside the electric range, Citroën maintains a full range of internal combustion engines to cater for a variety of uses and infrastructure. The Berlingo passenger van remains available with the BlueHDi 100 and a 6-speed manual gearbox, and the BlueHDi 130 with the EAT8 automatic gearbox. The Berlingo Van also offers 110 hp petrol, BlueHDi 100 and BlueHDi 130 engines.

A diverse range of options true to the Berlingo spirit: enabling everyone to choose the mobility that suits their lifestyle.

BERLINGO KEY FIGURES

• 1996: launch of the Berlingo commercial van
• 1997: launch of the Berlingo passenger van
• Over 4.2 million units produced worldwide
• Distributed in over 90 countries
• Current production: Vigo (Spain), Mangualde (Portugal), Ellesmere Port (England)
• Up to 340 km WLTP range on the ë-Berlingo passenger van
• Up to 330 km WLTP range on the ë-Berlingo Van
• 0-80% charge in 30 minutes at a 100 kW charging point
• Available in M and XL sizes
• Up to 7 seats in the passenger version
• Up to 4.4 m³ of load volume in the commercial version

Contact:

Citroën

Since 1919, Citroën has been creating cars, technologies and mobility solutions to meet the changing needs of society. Bold and innovative, Citroën places peace of mind and well-being at the heart of its customer experience and offers a wide range of models, from the unique Ami – an electric mobility solution designed for the city – to saloons, SUVs and commercial vehicles, most of which are available in electric or hybrid versions. A pioneer in services and customer care for both private and business customers, Citroën operates in 101 countries and has a network of 6,200 sales and service outlets worldwide.

For more information on Citroën, visit the media site https://fr-media.citroen.com