Citroen vans have been a popular choice for van conversions in recent years. With their spacious interiors, reliable engines, and affordable prices, they make an attractive option for those looking to convert a van into a mobile home. However, the question remains: are Citroen vans actually good for van conversions?
According to the Fleet News FN50 reliability survey, Citroen achieved a top 5 finish in 2014 and 2018, and a sixth place finish between 2015 and 2017. This suggests that Citroen vans are generally reliable, which is a crucial factor when considering a van for conversion. Additionally, the Citroen Relay, Peugeot Boxer, and Fiat Ducato all share the same specifications, making them interchangeable options for van conversions.
When it comes to dimensions, the Citroen Relay L3H2 is a popular choice for van conversions. Its length of 6.36m and height of 2.52m provide ample space for a comfortable living area, while its payload capacity of up to 1,995kg allows for the addition of essential features such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. Overall, Citroen vans offer a good balance of reliability, affordability, and space, making them a viable option for those looking to convert a van into a mobile home.
The Citroen Brand and Van Conversions
Citroen is a well-known brand in Europe, famous for producing reliable and versatile vehicles. The brand has a long history of producing vans that are popular for conversions. Citroen vans are known for their spacious interiors, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to convert a van into a camper or a mobile office.
Citroen has a reputation for producing vans that are both practical and stylish. The brand has been at the forefront of automotive design for over a century and has a reputation for producing vehicles that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Citroen vans are no exception to this rule, with modern designs that are both practical and stylish.
When it comes to van conversions, Citroen vans are a popular choice due to their spacious interiors, which are ideal for customization. The brand’s range of vans includes models like the Berlingo, Dispatch, and Relay, all of which are popular choices for conversions. These vans are known for their reliability and durability, making them a cost-effective option for anyone looking to convert a van.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards using vans for art and creative projects. Citroen vans are a popular choice for these types of projects due to their spacious interiors and versatility. The brand’s vans can be customized to suit a wide range of creative projects, from mobile art studios to pop-up shops.
Overall, Citroen vans are a popular choice for van conversions in Europe. The brand’s vans are known for their reliability, durability, and spacious interiors, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to customize a van. Whether you’re looking to convert a van into a camper, a mobile office, or a creative project, a Citroen van is a reliable and cost-effective option.
Citroen Relay and Berlingo: Ideal for Van Conversions
Citroen Relay and Berlingo are popular choices for van conversions. Both models offer ample space, versatility, and durability, making them ideal for creating a comfortable and functional living space on the road.
Citroen Relay
Citroen Relay is a large van that can accommodate a range of conversions, from basic to fully-equipped motorhomes. With a maximum load volume of 17m3, it provides plenty of space for furniture, appliances, and storage. The van also has a maximum payload of 1,900kg, which means it can carry a lot of weight without compromising on performance.
One of the key features of Citroen Relay is its customization options. The van comes in three lengths and three heights, allowing you to choose the size that best suits your needs. You can also select from a range of engines, including petrol and diesel, with power outputs ranging from 120 to 165hp.
Citroen Berlingo
Citroen Berlingo is a small van that is perfect for those who want a compact and agile vehicle for their conversion. Despite its size, the van has a surprisingly spacious interior, with a load volume of up to 4.4m3. The Berlingo is also available in two lengths, which provides some flexibility when it comes to choosing the right size for your conversion.
One of the benefits of the Berlingo is its fuel efficiency. The van is available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, all of which are designed to be economical and low-emission. The Berlingo also has a maximum payload of 1,000kg, which is impressive for a vehicle of its size.
Which One to Choose?
Choosing between Citroen Relay and Berlingo ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and requirements. If you need more space and power, then the Relay is the better option. However, if you want a smaller and more fuel-efficient van, then the Berlingo is the way to go.
Both models are reliable, durable, and easy to customize, making them ideal for van conversions of all kinds. Whether you’re planning a basic weekend getaway or a full-time nomadic lifestyle, Citroen Relay and Berlingo are sure to meet your needs.
Comparing Citroen Vans with Others
Citroen is a popular choice for those looking to convert a van into a camper or mobile home. However, it’s important to compare Citroen vans with other popular options to determine which one is the best fit for your conversion needs.
One of the most popular options for a van conversion is the Fiat Ducato, which is also sold under the Peugeot Boxer and Citroen Relay badges. These vans offer a range of sizes and configurations, making them a versatile choice for conversions. The Fiat Ducato is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for long-term travel.
Another popular choice is the Ford Transit, which is known for its durability and versatility. The Transit is available in a range of sizes and configurations, making it a good choice for those who need a lot of space. However, the Transit can be more expensive than other options, and it may not be as fuel-efficient as some of its competitors.
The Mercedes Sprinter is another popular choice for van conversions, thanks to its reliability and durability. The Sprinter is available in a range of sizes and configurations, and it offers a comfortable and spacious interior. However, the Sprinter can be more expensive than other options, and it may not be as fuel-efficient as some of its competitors.
The Renault Master and Renault Kangoo are also popular choices for van conversions. The Master is a larger van that offers a lot of space, while the Kangoo is a smaller van that is more fuel-efficient. Both vans are known for their reliability and durability, making them good choices for long-term travel.
Finally, the Ram Promaster is a popular choice for those who need a lot of space. The Promaster is available in a range of sizes and configurations, and it offers a comfortable and spacious interior. However, the Promaster can be more expensive than other options, and it may not be as fuel-efficient as some of its competitors.
Overall, Citroen vans offer a good balance of space, fuel efficiency, and affordability, making them a popular choice for van conversions. However, it’s important to compare Citroen vans with other popular options to determine which one is the best fit for your conversion needs.
Engine Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Citroen vans are known for their powerful and efficient diesel engines that offer a smooth ride and good fuel economy. The engines are designed to deliver a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for long journeys and heavy loads.
The Citroen Berlingo van is equipped with a range of diesel engines that offer excellent performance and fuel efficiency. The most popular engine is the 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel engine, which delivers up to 130 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. This engine is available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, which provides smooth and precise gear changes.
The Citroen Dispatch van is available with a range of diesel engines, including the 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel engine and the 2.0-litre BlueHDi diesel engine. The 1.5-litre engine delivers up to 120 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, while the 2.0-litre engine delivers up to 180 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Both engines are available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The Citroen Relay van is available with a range of diesel engines, including the 2.0-litre BlueHDi diesel engine and the 2.2-litre BlueHDi diesel engine. The 2.0-litre engine delivers up to 120 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque, while the 2.2-litre engine delivers up to 165 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque. Both engines are available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Citroen diesel engines are designed to offer good fuel economy without compromising on performance. The engines are equipped with advanced fuel injection systems and turbochargers, which help to improve fuel efficiency while delivering excellent power and torque.
Overall, Citroen vans are a good choice for van conversions due to their powerful and efficient diesel engines. The engines offer a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for long journeys and heavy loads.
Budget Considerations for Citroen Van Conversions
When it comes to converting a Citroen van into a campervan, budget is an important consideration. Citroen Relay is a popular choice for campervan conversions due to its size and versatility. However, it is important to ensure that the conversion does not exceed the budget.
One way to save money on a Citroen van conversion is to buy a used van. Auctions are a good place to find used Citroen Relay vans at a reasonable price. However, it is important to thoroughly inspect the van before making a purchase to avoid any hidden costs.
Another way to save money is to do the conversion yourself. This requires some DIY skills and knowledge of electrical and plumbing systems. However, it can save a significant amount of money compared to hiring a professional.
When buying a Citroen Relay van, it is important to consider the value of the van. Citroen Relay vans hold their value well, making them a good investment for a campervan conversion. However, it is important to ensure that the van is in good condition and has low mileage to maintain its value.
Overall, budget considerations are important when converting a Citroen van into a campervan. By buying a used van, doing the conversion yourself, and considering the value of the van, it is possible to create a campervan that fits within the budget.
Dimensions and Internal Height
Citroen vans are known for their spacious interiors, making them popular choices for van conversions. When considering a Citroen for a van conversion project, it is essential to consider the dimensions and internal height of the van.
The Citroen Relay, for example, has a length of 5.41m, a width of 2.05m, and a height of 2.25m. The internal height of the Citroen Relay is 1.66m, making it one of the tallest vans in its class. The internal width of the van is 1.87m, providing ample space for a comfortable conversion.
It is important to note that the dimensions of a van can vary depending on the model and year. Therefore, it is essential to research the specific model and year of the Citroen van before starting a conversion project.
When it comes to internal height, the Citroen Relay provides a generous amount of headroom for a comfortable living space. The high roof of the van allows for standing room, making it easier to move around and perform daily tasks.
In addition to the internal height, it is also essential to consider the width and length of the van when planning a conversion project. The Citroen Relay’s width and length provide ample space for a comfortable living area, as well as additional features such as a kitchen and bathroom.
Overall, the dimensions and internal height of a Citroen van make it an excellent choice for a van conversion project. With its spacious interior and ample headroom, the Citroen Relay provides a comfortable and practical living space for those looking to convert a van into a home on wheels.
Insurance and Road Tax
When it comes to converting a Citroen van into a campervan, it’s important to consider insurance and road tax. These are both legal requirements that van owners need to be aware of.
Insurance
Insurance is essential for any vehicle on the road, and campervans are no exception. In fact, campervan insurance is slightly different from regular car insurance, as it needs to cover both the vehicle and the living space inside.
It’s important to shop around for the right insurance policy, as not all insurers will cover DIY campervan conversions. However, there are some states in the US where it’s possible to get insurance on a DIY campervan conversion, including OR, CA, AZ, UT, ID, CO, TX, OK, SD, MN, MO, WI, IL, IN, TN, AL, GA, NC, OH, and PA.
Some major insurance companies that offer RV insurance for #vanlife are Good Sam, Progressive, Geico, and American Family. However, it’s important to note that not all insurers will cover campervans that have been converted by someone other than a professional RV manufacturer.
Road Tax
Road tax, also known as vehicle excise duty (VED), is a tax that needs to be paid on all vehicles that are driven or parked on public roads in the UK. The amount of road tax that needs to be paid depends on the vehicle’s emissions and the fuel type.
Citroen Relay vans are classified as light commercial vehicles, which means they are subject to a different road tax rate than cars. The current road tax rates for light commercial vehicles in the UK are:
- £275 per year for vehicles with emissions of 1-50g/km
- £465 per year for vehicles with emissions of 51-75g/km
- £515 per year for vehicles with emissions of 76-94g/km
- £1,030 per year for vehicles with emissions over 94g/km
It’s important to note that the road tax rates for Citroen Relay vans can change from year to year, so it’s worth checking the latest rates before purchasing a van.
Conversion Kits and Tools
When it comes to converting a Citroen van into a camper, having the right tools and conversion kit is essential. Here are some of the most important tools and kits that can help make the conversion process easier and more efficient:
Conversion Kits
- Wayfarer Vans: This company offers a complete conversion kit that includes everything from flooring to insulation and paneling on the walls and ceiling, as well as a galley-style kitchen and a bed platform with cushions.
- VanLab Conversion Kits: VanLab is a DIY van conversion company that offers a flatpack version of an interior van kit that can be delivered right to your door. The installation only takes a few hours and only requires a screwdriver.
- DIY Van Conversion Kits: There are also a number of DIY van conversion kits available for Citroen vans, including kits for Ford Transit vans and Mercedes Sprinter vans. These kits give you upholstered panels, a fan, and even insulation and sound deadening.
Tools
- Tape Measure: A tape measure is an essential tool for any van conversion project. It can be used to measure the dimensions of the van and to ensure that all the components fit properly.
- Jigsaw: A jigsaw is useful for cutting out holes for windows and vents, as well as for cutting panels to size.
- Drill: A drill is essential for installing components such as cabinets and shelves, as well as for drilling holes for wiring and plumbing.
- Screwdriver: A screwdriver is necessary for installing screws and bolts, as well as for removing components when necessary.
Materials
- Insulation: Insulation is important for keeping the van warm in the winter and cool in the summer. There are a number of different types of insulation available, including spray foam, fiberglass, and rigid foam.
- Plywood: Plywood is a versatile material that can be used for building cabinets, shelves, and other components.
- Wiring: Wiring is essential for powering components such as lights, fans, and appliances. It is important to use high-quality wiring that is designed for use in a vehicle.
In conclusion, having the right conversion kit and tools is essential for converting a Citroen van into a camper. With the right materials and equipment, it is possible to create a comfortable and functional living space that is perfect for life on the road.
Conversion to a Camper Van
Citroen Relay is a popular choice for those looking to convert a van into a camper van. The spacious interior and reliable mechanical performance make it an attractive option for those looking to travel long distances in comfort.
When converting a Citroen Relay into a camper van, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is important to have a clear idea of what features you want in your camper van. This will help you determine what kind of layout and design will work best for your needs.
One popular design for a Citroen Relay camper van is a fixed bed layout. This allows for a comfortable and permanent sleeping space, which can be important for those who plan to spend extended periods of time on the road. Additionally, a bathroom is a common feature in many camper van conversions. While it may take up valuable space, it can also add a lot of convenience and comfort to your travels.
When converting a Citroen Relay into a camper van, it is important to work with a reputable conversion company or have a good understanding of DIY conversion techniques. This will ensure that the conversion is done safely and effectively.
Overall, a Citroen Relay can make a great base for a camper van conversion. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a comfortable and functional space for all your traveling needs.
Reviews and Customer Experiences
When it comes to van conversions, reviews and customer experiences can be very helpful in determining whether a particular van model is suitable for conversion. Citroen has several models that are popular for van conversions, including the Citroen Relay and the Citroen Berlingo. Here is what some customers have to say about their experiences with Citroen vans:
Citroen Relay
According to reviews on the RAC website, the Citroen Relay is a reliable and spacious van that is well-suited for conversion. One customer wrote that the van “drives like a car” and is “very comfortable to drive long distances in.” Another customer praised the van’s fuel efficiency, saying that they were “pleasantly surprised by how economical it is.”
In terms of conversion, customers have noted that the Citroen Relay is a great choice due to its spacious interior and wide body. One customer wrote that they were able to fit a full-sized bed, kitchen, and bathroom into their converted Relay, while still having plenty of room for storage.
Citroen Berlingo
The Citroen Berlingo is another popular choice for van conversions, particularly for those who are looking for a smaller van. According to reviews on the RAC website, the Berlingo is a reliable and practical van that is well-suited for conversion.
Customers have praised the Berlingo’s fuel efficiency, with one customer writing that they were able to get “over 50 miles per gallon” on a long journey. Another customer noted that the van is “easy to drive and manoeuvre,” making it ideal for city driving.
In terms of conversion, customers have noted that the Berlingo is a great choice for those who are looking for a smaller van that is still spacious enough to accommodate a bed and other amenities. One customer wrote that they were able to fit a full-sized bed, kitchen, and storage into their converted Berlingo, while still having enough room to move around comfortably.
Overall, reviews and customer experiences suggest that Citroen vans are a good choice for van conversions, particularly for those who are looking for a reliable and spacious van. Whether you choose the Citroen Relay or the Citroen Berlingo, you can expect a practical and efficient van that is well-suited for conversion.
Warranty and After-Sales Service
Citroen offers a comprehensive warranty package for their new vehicles, which includes a 3-year warranty for the vehicle, a 12-year anti-perforation warranty, and a 3-year paint warranty. For those who want to extend their warranty coverage, Citroen Advantage is an extended warranty service that can provide additional coverage beyond the standard 3-year warranty or 60,000 miles.
Citroen also offers after-sales service to their customers. They have a network of authorised Citroen service centres across the UK, where customers can take their vehicles for routine maintenance and repairs. Citroen service centres are staffed by trained technicians who use genuine Citroen parts to ensure the best possible care for the vehicle.
In addition to routine maintenance and repairs, Citroen also offers roadside assistance to their customers. This service is available 24/7 and can help with a range of issues, including flat tyres, battery problems, and breakdowns.
Overall, Citroen’s warranty and after-sales service provide customers with peace of mind and support throughout the life of their vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of converting a Citroen Relay into a campervan?
The cost of converting a Citroen Relay into a campervan can vary widely depending on the level of customization and the quality of materials used. A basic conversion can cost around £10,000, while a more extensive conversion can cost upwards of £30,000. It is important to budget carefully and consider all expenses, including the cost of the van itself, before beginning a conversion project.
Where can I find Citroen Relay campervan conversion kits?
Citroen Relay campervan conversion kits can be found through a variety of online retailers and specialty conversion companies. It is important to research and compare different options to ensure that you are getting a high-quality kit that meets your specific needs. Some popular retailers include VanPimps, Kiravans, and Just Kampers.
Is a Citroen Relay a suitable base for a campervan conversion?
Yes, the Citroen Relay is a popular choice for campervan conversions due to its spacious interior, wide body, and reliable performance. It is important to choose a van that is in good condition and has a suitable wheelbase and payload capacity for your needs.
What are the pros and cons of converting a Citroen Relay into a campervan?
The pros of converting a Citroen Relay into a campervan include its spacious interior, wide body, and reliable performance. Additionally, the Citroen Relay is known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions. The cons of converting a Citroen Relay into a campervan include the high cost of conversion and the need for regular maintenance and repairs.
Are Citroen Relays known for their fuel efficiency?
Yes, Citroen Relays are known for their fuel efficiency and low emissions. This is due in part to their advanced diesel engines and lightweight construction. However, fuel efficiency can vary depending on the specific model and driving conditions.
What is the average lifespan of a Citroen Relay used for campervan conversions?
The average lifespan of a Citroen Relay used for campervan conversions can vary widely depending on the level of maintenance and care it receives. With proper maintenance, a well-built campervan conversion can last for many years. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for wear and tear, especially if the van is used frequently or for long periods of time.
