Citroën Berlingo II (B9) (2008–2018) (2008 – 2018)

Reliability score : 7.0/10

The Citroën Berlingo II, internally codenamed B9, represents the second generation of Citroën's popular leisure activity vehicle (LAV) and light commercial vehicle (LCV). Launched in 2008, it built upon the success of its predecessor by offering improved comfort, safety, and a more modern design, while retaining its core strengths of practicality and versatility. It shared its platform with the Peugeot Partner II. Over its decade-long production run, the Berlingo II received two significant facelifts: one in 2012 and another in 2015, which brought updated styling, new technologies, and revised engine lineups to meet evolving emissions standards (Euro 5 and Euro 6). It was available in various configurations, including passenger versions (Multispace) and panel vans, with different lengths a

✅ Strengths

Exceptional practicality and interior space for passengers and cargo.
Comfortable ride, well-suited for long journeys and family use.
Fuel-efficient diesel engines (1.6 HDi/BlueHDi) with good torque.
Robust and simple design, especially for early petrol and diesel models.
Good visibility and easy to drive in urban environments.
Affordable running costs for well-maintained diesel versions.

⚠️ Weaknesses

Some interior plastics feel cheap and scratch easily.
Road noise can be noticeable at higher speeds.
Early 1.6 HDi engines prone to turbo and DPF issues if maintenance is neglected.
1.6 VTi (EP6C) engine has known issues with oil consumption and timing chain.
1.2 PureTech engine (later models) has critical timing belt degradation issues.
AdBlue system on BlueHDi can be a source of costly repairs if it fails.

🎯 Verdict

The Citroën Berlingo II (B9) remains an excellent choice for those needing maximum practicality, space, and comfort on a budget. Its robust nature and versatile interior make it ideal for families, tradespeople, or anyone with an active lifestyle. For the best reliability and running costs, focus on the 1.6 HDi (DV6) diesel engines, particularly the Euro 5 (DV6C/D) and Euro 6 (DV6FC BlueHDi) versions. These offer a great balance of power, economy, and generally good long-term reliability, provided they have a diligent service history with correct oil and DPF maintenance. Early Euro 4 HDi models are good but require more vigilance regarding turbo and DPF issues. The TU-series petrol engines (1.4i, 1.6i) are also solid choices for lower mileage or city driving, being simple and dependable. Exercise extreme caution with the 1.6 VTi (EP6C) and especially the 1.2 PureTech (EB2DT) engines. While the VTi can be acceptable with meticulous oil monitoring and timing chain checks, the PureTech's wet timing belt issue is a significant concern that can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Only consider a PureTech if you have absolute proof of the timing belt being replaced with the latest impro