Signs and Graphics (Cymru) Limited have recently purchased a new Citroen Nemo 1.4HDi LX van which replaces an ageing Peugeot Partner.
Citroen Nemo Van LX Model
The Partner was identical in many respects to the popular Citroen Berlingo and the new Nemo is, in the same manner, similar to the Peugeot Bippa and the latest incarnation of the long running Fiat Fiorino.
The Verdict
The Verdict? …… Already?…….
Well…….. in a reversal of most tests or reviews we will start with a basic verdict which is that we like it!
We tell you this first because having read various reviews before purchase there are a few things which might be classed as niggles or problems which probably don’t get much of a mention elsewhere.
All the basic specs and technical details are available from other sites, including Citroen’s very own Nemo site .
We are going to highlight just a few points which might be worth considering before you take the plunge:
The Niggles
Passenger Seat
The old Peugeot Partner had, as standard, a very useful passenger seat which folded flat to give a useful work surface , somewhere to put a cofeee cup during a rest break or, more importantly, to allow loading of longer length items.
The Nemo has an optional “Extenso” folding seat. Now, one or two of the reports we have read suggest that this “option” is part of the standard fitments to the LX model (This has the so-called “Comfort Pack” and “Plus Pack”). This is not the case! The standard seat reclines to a certain extent and the headrest is removeable but it does not give anything like the versatility of the the folding option.
It is important to specify this option at the time of ordering if you think you might need it as the added cost is around £70. We have been told that to replace the supplied standard seat will cost an eye-watering amount – in excess of £1200!!!
Storage space
A decent sized lidded and lockable glove box is fitted but, unlike the aforementioned Partner van, the lid opens only to an angle so there is nowhere to put your cups or cans.
Each door pocket has a holder for one small bottle and, if you don’t have the optional cigarette lighter etc., you can just about squeeze a cup into the central console space.
The upper dash area is a triumph of design over functionality with sweeping shapes giving a pleasing modern look but wasting opportunities for useful storage.
Citroen Nemo dash board
Leg Room
Citroen Nemo drivers space
Those of ….. er….. (cough) … larger proportions should make sure they are at ease behind the wheel.
The high centre console with gear stick means you are very much enclosed in the driving area. If your legs relax to the sides as you drive the left knee is likely to press against the central area and there is no padding to cushion the presure.At the same time your right leg will touch the door handle and automatically trigger the central locking. (See our other comments on locking below).
The seat, however, does provide good all round support and has been comfortable on long runs.
Arm Rest
Citroen Nemo folding arm rest
There is also a folding armrest between the seats bit the position is so poor that is is practically useless.
Rear Doors
These open to 180 degrees but do not lock in this position so you will need to hold or wedge them open whileloading awkward items.
rear door opening Citroen Nemo
Central Locking
A really nice feature is that (with the LX option) central locking allows you to lock and unlock the side and rear cargo doors independently of the cabin from a button on the dash. You can also unlock them seperately from the key fob although the lock button on the fob locks all doors at one click (including the cabin).
Citroen Nemo key
The key fob though is very sensitive and, having locked the vehicle, you need to be very careful not to touch the buttons accidentally as you walk away as even slipping the keys into a pocket can unwittingly unlock the vehicle again.
The Verdict (Part 2)!
Remember – we have highlighted niggles we have found with this van but other, more celebrated, people have voted it International Van of the Year 2009 and we are, indeed, pleased with it.
It has funky looks, some good features which we have not mentioned, a smooth responsive engine and pretty good fuel economy, although we have yet to see anything like the claimed 62 mpg, currently averaging around 54 mpg over a wide variety of driving types.
We will try and answer any queries and add to this report as we gain more experience with the van.