Road Test: Citroen Berlingo Multispace 1.8i 3dr

A jibe often directed at people carriers is that they're just vans with windows. Well, the Citroen Berlingo Multispace really is - and unashamedly so. Not that you wouldn't guess as much. A funky paint job and colour-coded upholstery, seatbelts and carpet can't disguise the Multispace's working class upbringing - it takes more than a blonde wig to pass as Claudia Schiffer.

But the Multispace does share the two most important benefits of its workmanlike origins - space and practicality. Thanks to its height, the boot space is eminently more usable than an estate and when the easy-to-fold rear seats are down, the boot could swallow a small mountain and still have room for two bikes to explore it on. In this respect, it would appeal to the sort of outdoor funster who needs space to stow surfboards/skis/bikes etc. Owners of a less adventurous nature will undoubtedly experience a dramatic surge in popularity among friends with bulky loads to shift at weekends.

However, the Multispace has pretentions beyond being just a simple workhorse. OK, it's no thoroughbred sprinter, but the 1.8-litre, 90bhp engine is lively enough without resorting to the whip, and it has inherited its neat, direct handling and comfortable ride from its more blue-blooded Citroen stablemates.

The lofty driving position and acres of glass allow for panoramic views of the surroundings which is just as well, as, in true utilitarian style, there aren't many diversions inside. Standard features include power steering, electric front windows, upper and lower storage nets and a full cabin-width storage shelf, invaluable for, oh, anything.

Despite only being a two-door, access for rear passengers is relatively stress free, thanks again to the prodigious height - I'm six foot and could have worn a top hat with impunity. And with the world's largest electrically-operated folding sunroof at your disposal you can enjoy full wind-in-the-hair motoring.

I've never been a fan of the ubiquitous all-rounder, but the Multispace makes a decent fist of combining estate, convertible and hatchback skills, and for a fairly reasonable £11,995. If you can live with the slightly absurd looks (I couldn't) and ignore the poncy lifestyle image, it makes for a practical and spacious car. On a bright, sunny day with a bunch of mates, you might even convince yourself it's fun

Tim Oldham