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Citroën Berlingo XTR: the adventure trim makes its grand return in Japan

2025 Citroën Berlingo XTR

It’s becoming clear that the XTR name is experiencing a remarkable resurgence at Citroën. After making a noteworthy comeback in Brazil on the C3 Aircross and a unique appearance on the Berlingo Van in Germany, this trim, long associated with adventure and versatility, is now resurfacing in the Land of the Rising Sun. Indeed, it is in Japan that the Citroën Berlingo is reviving this iconic badge with a particularly interesting new special edition: the "BERLINGO MAX BlueHDi XTR Grip Control Package." A long name for a version that truly captures the spirit of exploration and combines features we thought were almost forgotten in Europe.

A special edition building on success

This isn't the first time Japan has received an XTR version of its Berlingo. With the introduction of the facelifted model in October 2024, an initial "Berlingo MAX XTR Launch Edition BlueHDi" had already won over the Japanese public, who have a known fondness for this French "leisure activity vehicle" with its unique design and unparalleled practicality. Building on this success, Citroën Japan decided to double down, launching an enriched version on September 4th. This new model is based on the previous launch edition, retaining all its strengths. It embodies Citroën's vision of comfort, featuring the renowned Advanced Comfort seats, a generous interior packed with clever storage solutions, and stable driving performance thanks to its excellent chassis. The highly recognizable design, with its new light signature and modernized Citroën emblem, is further enhanced by specific attributes: 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear skid plates, distinctive color accents on the Airbumps, and a specific XTR badge. The main innovation of this edition is, as its name suggests, the addition of Grip Control, a feature that significantly boosts the Berlingo's versatility. It is all powered by the BlueHDi engine, a diesel powertrain that continues to be a popular choice in this market.


Grip Control: the extra touch of versatility

The key feature of this new special edition is the integration of the Grip Control system. This is not an all-wheel-drive system, but rather an advanced traction control system that optimizes the grip of the front wheels according to the terrain. Using a rotary dial on the center console, I can select one of four available driving modes to adapt the vehicle's behavior. "Normal" mode is for everyday driving on asphalt, while "Snow," "Mud," and "Sand" modes adjust the torque delivered to each wheel to ensure the best possible traction on slippery or loose surfaces. This technology provides a safer and more confident driving experience, whether facing sudden snowfall, heading to a ski resort, or venturing down a sandy track to a beach. Citroën rightly points out that using tires appropriate for the conditions, such as winter tires, remains essential for optimal safety. To personalize this offer, three body colors are available: the existing "Kiam Blue" and "Sirkka Green," plus a new elegant and urban color, "Artense Grey." This edition is available in two lengths: the 5-seater version is priced at ¥4,392,500 (approximately €25,800 or $28,000), while the 7-seater long-body version is offered at ¥4,572,500 (approximately €26,900 or $29,200).

The XTR name is clearly in vogue within the Citroën universe in 2025, and this Japanese special edition of the Berlingo is further proof of its enduring appeal. It demonstrates the relevance of this vision of a rugged, go-anywhere leisure vehicle that can adapt to any lifestyle. However, from a European perspective, this version is particularly fascinating. It combines elements that have become rare or have even disappeared from our market on this model: a passenger Berlingo with a BlueHDi diesel engine, the XTR trim, and Grip Control. For French and European fans of the brand, this combination evokes a sense of nostalgia, as these configurations were best-sellers for years. Seeing this package successfully resurface in Japan inevitably raises a question. While the trend in Europe is heavily focused on electrification, could such a pragmatic and versatile version one day find its place again, in one form or another, on our roads? Only time will tell.

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À propos de l’auteur
✍️ Je m’appelle Jérémy K., fondateur du site Passionnément Citroën.
Passionné d’automobile depuis toujours et de Citroën en particulier, je partage chaque jour l’actualité de la marque à travers des articles, essais, analyses et dossiers.
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