Citroen Relay review

While the Citroen Relay’s design hasn’t evolved much over time, its engines certainly have. The Relay has flicked between 2.2-litre and 2.0-litre engines several times, even flirting with a 3.0-litre engine for a while, before settling on the new 2.2-litre BlueHDI unit.

Where the previous engine quickly became tiresome, mainly due to it being so noisy, the newer version is a great improvement. However, it does retain an underlying thrum, which makes it feel less refined than some of the other engines in competitors.

Adding to its image as a utilitarian van that forgoes the frills many newer vans have adopted in favour of an air of hard-nosed hard work, the gearshift is firm and quite notchy, requiring a purposeful nudge to see it through. The steering is also heavy and the suspension firm, but they work together nicely: it’s a rudimentary but satisfying, safe and secure van to drive.

The Relay has always been blessed with an open and airy cabin, which means forward visibility is excellent . The rearwards view is helped by large wing mirrors. The seating position is high, even for a large van, which also helps give you a good view of the road ahead.