2026 Citroën Berlingo: the return of diesel, petrol, and automatic gearbox

As you may have already known if you follow us closely, we were the first to inform you that Diesel power was making a permanent comeback under the hood of the Citroën Berlingo a few weeks ago. This decision marked a crucial milestone for the "Chevrons" leisure activity vehicle (LAV), restoring a historic powertrain favored by long-distance drivers. Today, Citroën is going even further to meet the demands of the European market. While the Berlingo was only available with a manual gearbox since its internal combustion engine (ICE) comeback, the brand has decided to reintroduce the automatic gearbox, providing total versatility to its flagship model.

The return of BlueHDi diesel and the arrival of the EAT8 automatic gearbox

As we previously anticipated, the Citroën Berlingo is strengthening its thermal offering by maintaining the BlueHDi 100 and 130 horsepower diesel units. While these engines were initially offered only with a manual transmission, Citroën is now adjusting its commercial strategy. From now on, the BlueHDi 130 version can be paired with an automatic gearbox, an option highly anticipated by families and professionals seeking driving comfort and smoothness.

This automatic transmission allows the Berlingo to regain its status as a premier long-distance cruiser. It perfectly complements the generous torque of the 1.5 Diesel engine, ensuring smooth gear changes whether in urban environments or on the highway. This pragmatic choice by Citroën directly addresses users who do not have home charging solutions or whose intensive use requires significant range and quick refueling.

Furthermore, these diesel versions offer a significant advantage for large families in various markets. With CO2 emissions ranging between 138 and 151 g/km, the Berlingo benefits from tax incentives in several regions. In France, for example, families with three or more children receive a reduction in calculated emissions and weight-based taxes. This makes the diesel Berlingo extremely competitive compared to seven-seater SUVs, often avoiding heavy environmental penalties.

A new petrol engine for a truly multi-energy range

To complete this transition toward a comprehensive range, the Citroën Berlingo also welcomes a 110 horsepower petrol engine. This three-cylinder turbo direct-injection engine develops 205 Nm of torque available at low revs. Paired exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox, this unit stands out for its flexibility and quiet operation, posting a combined WLTP consumption of 6.3 l/100 km.

However, when analyzing the technical specifications, this petrol version seems better suited for moderate urban or suburban use. Given the vehicle's size and loading capacity, the torque difference compared to the diesel versions remains a decisive factor. For users planning to travel fully loaded or regularly drive in hilly areas, the BlueHDi version—though potentially more expensive at purchase—offers superior driving pleasure and long-term efficiency. Nevertheless, the existence of this petrol offer allows the Berlingo to be positioned at a more aggressive entry-level price, catering to all budgets.

Modularity and technology: preserving the Berlingo's fundamentals

Beyond these mechanical evolutions, the Citroën Berlingo retains the assets that have made it the absolute benchmark for leisure activity vehicles since 1996. It remains available in two lengths: Size M (4.40 m) and Size XL (4.75 m), both offering the possibility to accommodate up to seven passengers. Modularity remains exemplary with its three independent rear seats, which can be folded down in one quick motion to create a flat floor.

Comfort, the true DNA of the brand, is ensured by the Citroën Advanced Comfort seats (optional) and a living space bathed in light, notably thanks to the multifunction roof. On the technology side, a 10-inch touchscreen powers a modern infotainment system, complementing a top-tier suite of driving aids. Whether in the all-electric ë-Berlingo version (340 km WLTP range) or with a thermal engine, the cargo volume can reach 2,100 liters, with a loading length of up to 3.05 m on the XL version.

Conclusion: the choice of freedom for Citroën customers

By making this strategic shift, Citroën is reversing its previous announcements and refusing to sacrifice the Berlingo solely for the sake of CAFE standards. The return of a true multi-energy offer—comprising two diesel engines, one petrol engine, and an electric powertrain, combined with the choice between manual and automatic gearboxes—places the customer back at the center of the decision.

From now on, future buyers truly have the freedom to choose the energy source best suited to their actual needs when ordering. This rediscovered flexibility should logically allow the "Chevrons" LAV to see its sales volumes grow significantly in 2026, reaffirming its leading position in a segment it created itself.