CITROEN has to be applauded on its commitment to environmental friendliness in its latest Berlingo Blue HDI 100 750 LX van fitted with stop/start technology.

Part of the facelifted Berlingo range, this little workhorse can deliver in no uncertain terms when it comes to cleanlness and economy.

For instance, the 1,560cc turbo diesel four-cylinder engine can achieve an amazing 67.3mpg on the combined cycle and even in everyday use, the vehicle was returning well over 60 to the gallon.

Citroen achieves Euro6 compliance with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology to reduce NOx emissions. This required the installation of a 17-litre Adblue tank.

AdBlue is a liquid, clear solution which consists of demineralized water and automotive urea at a concentration of 32,5%. AdBlue is injected into the exhaust gasses of a diesel powered engine to reduce the emission of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in combination with SCR (Selective Catalyst Reduction) technology.

The Blue HDi 100 is the most efficient and environmentally friendly model in the line-up with CO2 emissions of 111g/km.

This vehicle featured all the ideas that have made Berlingo so popular, including a smooth side-sliding door in addition to side-hinged double rear access door.

One feature that intrigues me is the tiny centre seat which is just behind the gearchange. You would have to be pretty small to use it, but it did serve as a handy platform for papers and bags.

Full marks go to storage cubby holes with an overhead shelf and a handy stowage box under the centre seat.

The load had full ply-lining protection which is essential to prevent those dents an knocks from loads moving inside the van.

It is robust, versatile and with a splash of French style.

The latest Citroen Berlingo is a classic case of how to mix the comfort and looks of a car within the remit of a useful load carrier.

The Berlingo is one of a modern generation of light vans that have finally kicked into the long grass that outmoded assumption that a van has to have a stone age specification and few creature comforts.

With a top speed of 101mph and a 0-62mph this is a neat deliverer, despite its lower powered specification.

On the road, the smooth five-speed manual transmission suits the engine admirably and plays its part to make this a van that does not hang about.