Citroen Dispatch Review

Citroen Dispatch HDi 90 (SWB)

Manufacturer’s RRP: £14,270 (excluding VAT)

A comfortable cabin attached to a highly versatile, smooth riding van.

Technical

Offered with a choice of 3 fuel efficient Euro IV HDi diesel engines, the Dispatch demonstrates impressive levels of performance and drivability. The 1.6HDi 90hp model we drove is capable of delivering a peak torque of 180Nm at 1750rpm, suitable for both local and long distance operations. Should you opt for the higher power 2.0HDi engine, the Dispatch is equipped with an ultra-clean Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS), reducing emissions to their lowest levels.

Citroen Dispatch in Passion Red	A trusty emblem
We love the window	Comfy seats
Ample load capacity	A cabin of comfort
Fits a tonne easy	The box challenge!

Drive

The Citroen is well known for its car-like standards of ride and handling, and this model did nothing to disappoint. The Dispatch remained steady and responsive even when handling its maximum load capacity. We took the van out with a load of one tonne and although it became noticeably harder to gain momentum quickly, we were happy with the van's overall performance, particularly when taking corners. It's also worth noting that the Citroen Dispatch demonstrates a particularly tight turning circle which we found particularly helpful in built-up areas.

Cabin comfort

The cabin has an airy, roomy feel due to its large windows, windscreen, and the small pane of glass within the bulkhead which allows you visible access to your load. The window also made reversing the vehicle much easier. The driving seat is particularly comfy due to its ergonomic design that guarantees excellent body posture and optimal comfort during long periods of driving. The dash mounted gear stick creates more floor space whilst the large door pockets, big over-windscreen storage shelf and multiple cup holders create ample storage for day-to-day essentials. Additional options for added comfort include air con, cruise control, speed limiter, alloy wheels and a 5-CD stacker. The Dispatch is also the first compact panel van in the UK to be fitted with a Trafficmaster Smartnav and a stolen vehicle tracking system as standard.

Load area

The Citroen Dispatch's overall length is similar to that of a large family car which makes it very practical for urban use - you can park it on a meter and get into almost all multi-storey car parks, providing they are the standard 1950mm height limit. The large, twin-sided loading doors provide easy access to your load which is really handy if you're working in confined areas. The rear doors open to 180 degrees and can take loads to a maximum of 562mm high with the option of self-levelling rear suspension increasing the load deck height by 71mm. Additional load length is available for long items such as pipes or lengths of timber due to an optional overhead storage tunnel. And if you're on the move, our box challenge concluded that 60 standard boxes will fit in the back if required!

Standard Safety features

Driver airbag

ABS with EBA

Height adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters

Anti-submarine seat design

Verdict

Versatile, comfortable and stylish in looks, the Dispatch is perfectly suited to van drivers based in urban areas.

Data file

Engines: 1.6 HDi
Gearbox: 5 speed manual
Power output: 90 hp
Insurance group: 6E
Standard security features: Trafficmaster Smartnav and Trackstar GPS stolen vehicle tracking
Maximum pay load (kg): 1200
Load volume (cu.m): 5
Loading area: length / width/ height (mm) 2254 x 1600 x 1449
Maximum roof load (kg): 170
Wheelbase (mm): 3000
Service intervals: 2 year unlimited mileage / 3 year 100,000 miles

Vansunited.co.uk verdict : ****