French firm Citroen...

French firm Citroen has released pictures of its all-new Berlingo Multispace. The practical family runarond has been given a fresh look and revised mechnicals. Company bosses are claiming the newcomer adds saloon car levels of refinement to the existing car"s van-like versatility,

As you can see, the Multispace is clearly influenced by the larger C4 Picasso. However, being based on the latest Berlingo small van means it gets a more upright stance and useful sliding side doors. At the rear a large hatch features a neat opening rear window, which allows shopping to be dropped straight in.

Inside you"ll find more space - thanks to a longer wheelbase - and better quality materials. The rear seat will feature three individual chairs that can be removed to create extra versatility. Further storage is provided by aircraft-style overhead luggage compartments.

Underneath the skin the Citroen features a chassis based on the C4 Picasso, while power comes from the torquey and economical 110bhp 1.6-litre HDi diesel motor. To ensure emissions are kept to a minimum, the unit is fitted with a particulate filter.

The first examples of the new Berlingo should land in the UK late in 2008. Prices have yet to be announced, but expect to pay a small premium over the outgoing model.